he long-awaited showdown between Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano is officially set for Saturday, May 16, at the famous Intuit Dome in Los Angeles. The historic MMA event has already become one of the most talked-about combat sports attractions of 2026, bringing together two of the biggest pioneers in women’s mixed martial arts.
Fans across the world are eagerly waiting to see two legendary names return to the cage for a professionally sanctioned MMA contest under the Unified Rules of MMA. The event promises excitement, nostalgia, and a massive atmosphere as combat sports icons step back into the spotlight.
Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano Quick Info
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Fight | Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano |
| Event Date | Saturday, May 16, 2026 |
| Venue | Intuit Dome |
| Location | Los Angeles, California |
| Main Card Start Time | 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT |
| Preliminary Card Start Time | 6 p.m. ET / 3 p.m. PT |
| Fight Type | Professional MMA Fight |
| Weight Class | Featherweight (145 lbs) |
| Fight Rounds | 5 Rounds |
| Round Duration | 5 Minutes Each |
| Gloves | 4-Ounce MMA Gloves |
| Rules | Unified Rules of MMA |
| Fighting Styles Allowed | Boxing, Wrestling, Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, Karate, Kickboxing |
| Streaming for Prelims | Tudum (Netflix) & Most Valuable Promotions YouTube |
| Ronda Rousey Age | 39 Years Old |
| Gina Carano Age | 44 Years Old |
| Age Difference | 5 Years |
| Ronda Rousey Record Style | Grappling & Submission Specialist |
| Gina Carano Record Style | Striking & Stand-Up Fighting |
Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano Fight Date and Start Time
The mega fight card takes place on May 16, 2026. The preliminary card is scheduled to begin at 6 p.m. ET (3 p.m. PT), while the main card is expected to start around 9 p.m. ET (6 p.m. PT).
The prelims will stream live on Tudum by Netflix and on Most Valuable Promotions’ official YouTube channel, giving fans multiple viewing options before the blockbuster main event begins later in the evening.
Fight Rules and Weight Class
The Rousey vs. Carano bout will follow official MMA regulations and will feature five rounds lasting five minutes each. Fighters will wear four-ounce MMA gloves, and the contest is scheduled in the featherweight division at 145 pounds.
The fight will allow a complete mix of martial arts techniques including boxing, wrestling, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, judo, karate, and kickboxing. Under Unified Rules, fighters can strike, grapple, clinch, and attempt submissions both standing and on the ground.
This ruleset creates a fascinating matchup because both athletes bring different strengths into the cage. Rousey built her legendary career around elite judo throws and armbar submissions, while Carano became famous for her striking ability and aggressive stand-up game.
Age Difference Between Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano
One of the interesting storylines surrounding the fight is the age difference between the two stars.
Ronda Rousey was born on February 1, 1987, and is currently 39 years old. Gina Carano, born in 1982, will be 44 years old by fight night after celebrating her birthday in April.
Despite the five-year age gap, both fighters remain globally recognized names with huge fan followings and years of combat sports experience.
Full Fight Card for May 16
Main Card
- Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano
- Nate Diaz vs. Mike Perry
- Francis Ngannou vs. Philipe Lins
- Salahdine Parnasse vs. Kenneth Cross
- Junior dos Santos vs. Robelis Despaigne
Preliminary Card
- Namo Fazil vs. Jake Bobian
- Adriano Moraes vs. Phumi Nkuta
- Jason Jackson vs. Jefferson Creighton
- David Mgoyan vs. Albert Morales
- Aline Pereira vs. Jade Masson-Wong
- Chris Avila vs. Brandon Jenkins
Fight Predictions
Predictions for the main event are divided among MMA analysts and fans. Many believe Rousey’s grappling and submission skills could become the deciding factor if the fight reaches the mat. Others feel Carano’s striking and physical strength may create serious problems during stand-up exchanges.
The opening rounds are expected to be explosive as both fighters attempt to establish control early. If Rousey can secure takedowns, she may gain the advantage quickly. However, if Carano keeps the fight standing, her striking combinations could influence the judges or even lead to a stoppage.
Regardless of the outcome, this fight represents a major moment for women’s MMA and could become one of the biggest combat sports events of the year.