Mixed martial arts legends Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano are making their long-awaited returns to the combat sports arena in an event anticipated to be one of the biggest in MMA history. This monumental night, streaming on Netflix, will also showcase other notable fighters, including former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou, fan-favorite Nate Diaz, and bare-knuckle boxing star Mike Perry. The event promises an electrifying display of talent and fierce competition, marking a significant milestone for the sport as these icons re-enter the spotlight.
Rousey and Carano's Triumphant Return
Ronda Rousey, a former Strikeforce and UFC champion, redefined women's MMA, elevating it to mainstream popularity before her departure from the sport following losses in 2015 and 2016. After a successful career in WWE and Hollywood, the 39-year-old judo medalist is prepared to complete her unfinished business in the octagon. Similarly, Gina Carano, a pioneer in women's MMA, gained recognition for her 2007 victory against Julie Kedzie in the first nationally televised women's MMA fight. Despite a loss in 2009, Carano's career transitioned into acting, but at 44, she is eager to demonstrate her enduring prowess.
This event on Netflix marks a significant moment for both athletes as they step back into the competitive world of mixed martial arts. Rousey's return, at age 39, aims to cap off a career that saw her dominate the bantamweight division and transcend the sport into popular culture. Her journey from Olympic medalist to MMA superstar and then to mainstream entertainer has made her a compelling figure, and her comeback is expected to draw immense viewership. Carano, who never formally retired, took a hiatus to pursue acting opportunities, but her decision to return, at 44, underscores her deep-seated passion for the sport and her desire to prove her capabilities against one of the most formidable opponents in MMA history. Their combined presence ensures an evening filled with high stakes and emotional narratives, captivating both long-time fans and new audiences alike.
Undercard Highlights and Event Details
The highly anticipated main card includes several other compelling matchups, with former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou facing Philipe Lins in the co-main event. Ngannou, who last competed in MMA in 2024 and has since ventured into boxing, looks to reaffirm his dominance against Lins, a former PFL Heavyweight Tournament winner. Additionally, Nate Diaz, known for his durable fighting style and last seen in MMA in 2022, will take on Bare Knuckle FC's Mike Perry, promising a gritty contest between two combat sports veterans. The event also features a series of preliminary fights that have already delivered thrilling finishes, setting the stage for the main attractions.
The preliminary card has already set an intense tone for the evening, with notable victories such as Namo Fazil's submission of Jake Babian and Adriano Moraes's surprising technical submission against Phumi Nkuta. Jason Jackson delivered a massive knockout against Jefferson Creighton, while David Mgoyan secured a unanimous decision win over Albert Morales. Aline Pereira also earned a hard-fought split decision victory against Jade Masson-Wong, and Brandon Jenkins won a split decision against Chris Avila, all contributing to an action-packed start. The event, held at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, began with prelims at 6 p.m. ET, followed by the main card at 9 p.m. ET. The main event featuring Rousey and Carano is expected to commence around 11:30 p.m. ET. The entire spectacle is available globally to Netflix subscribers at no additional pay-per-view cost, making it accessible to a wide audience.
