Historic MMA Showdown Set for Netflix's Combat Sports Debut
In a groundbreaking announcement that has sent shockwaves through the combat sports world, women's mixed martial arts pioneers Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano will emerge from retirement to headline Netflix's first-ever MMA event. The highly anticipated bout, dubbed a "legendary showdown," is scheduled for May 16 at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles.
A Partnership with Streaming and Promotional Powerhouses
This historic event represents a collaboration between Netflix and Most Valuable Promotions, the organization behind the record-breaking Jake Paul versus Mike Tyson boxing match that attracted 125 million viewers on Netflix. The streaming giant's entry into live MMA broadcasting marks a significant expansion of its sports programming portfolio.
Rousey expressed her enthusiasm in an interview with Netflix's fan companion site Tudum, stating: "Me and Gina Carano are gonna throw down in the biggest superfight in women's combat sport history, and we're partnering with the fighter-first promoter, MVP, as well as the baddest streamer on the planet, Netflix." She emphasized that this event is "for all MMA fans past, present and future."
Legends Returning to the Cage
Carano revealed that Rousey personally recruited her for this comeback fight, explaining: "Ronda came to me and said there is only one person she would make a comeback for, and it's been her dream to make this fight happen between us."
The combat sports credentials of both fighters are impressive:
- Ronda Rousey: Former Olympic judo bronze medalist who became the first woman signed by UFC in 2012 and its inaugural bantamweight champion. She compiled a 12-2 professional record with nine submissions and three knockouts before retiring from MMA in 2016.
- Gina Carano: MMA trailblazer who dominated Strikeforce and Elite Xtreme Combat promotions between 2006-2009, amassing a 7-1 record with her only loss coming against Cris Cyborg for the Strikeforce featherweight championship.
From Combat Sports to Entertainment Careers
Both athletes have successfully transitioned to entertainment careers following their MMA retirements. Rousey embarked on a professional wrestling stint with WWE, while both fighters have pursued acting roles in film and television. Their return to combat sports represents a remarkable full-circle moment for two women who helped pioneer women's MMA.
The event will be broadcast live exclusively on Netflix, with tickets going on sale March 5. The undercard for the May 16 event has yet to be announced, but the main event alone promises to be a historic moment in women's combat sports history.
