Ronda Rousey Finds Alternative Explanation for Concussion-Like Issues

Cleveland Clinic diagnosis links Rousey's symptoms to migraines, not concussions

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Former UFC champion Ronda Rousey revealed that after undergoing extensive medical testing at the Cleveland Clinic, doctors found an alternative explanation for the concussion-like symptoms she has experienced during sparring. Rousey said the Cleveland Clinic's Dr. Charles Bernick determined her issues are likely linked to migraines and a family history of epilepsy, rather than actual concussions.

Why it matters

Rousey's health and ability to safely compete have been a major concern as she prepares for a comeback fight against Gina Carano. This new diagnosis from the renowned Cleveland Clinic provides hope that Rousey may be able to manage her condition and return to the octagon without risking further brain trauma.

The details

Rousey said that even light sparring would trigger concussion-like symptoms, including vision loss and trouble thinking clearly. But after extensive testing, Dr. Bernick theorized that Rousey's issues are actually tied to migraines, which are more common in people prone to concussions. Rousey said the diagnosis was a relief, as it means she doesn't have to worry about chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) and can instead focus on finding preventative migraine medication.

  • Rousey and Gina Carano are scheduled to fight on May 16, 2026 at Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California.

The players

Ronda Rousey

A former UFC women's bantamweight champion who is making a comeback to fight Gina Carano.

Dana White

The CEO of the UFC who sent Rousey to the Cleveland Clinic for medical evaluation.

Dr. Charles Bernick

A doctor at the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health who diagnosed Rousey's condition as linked to migraines rather than concussions.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“They did every single test possible to check me. I actually finally got a positive diagnosis because we've never been really able to figure out what's going on with me.”

— Ronda Rousey (The Jim Rome Show)

“Basically, from lighter and lighter hits, I'm getting concussion symptoms. I lose big chunks of my vision, my depth perception, and my ability to think clearly. Dr. Bernick at the Cleveland Clinic said, 'Listen. Listen to all of your symptoms. I've looked at all of your scans. Your brain looks great.'”

— Ronda Rousey (The Jim Rome Show)

“To me, I'm like, 'Oh my god. I'm not dying. CTE isn't coming to get me.' There is actually some stuff that we can do about it.”

— Ronda Rousey (The Jim Rome Show)

What’s next

Rousey said she has recently found a preventative migraine medication that she hopes will help resolve her issues ahead of the fight with Gina Carano on May 16.

The takeaway

Rousey's diagnosis from the renowned Cleveland Clinic provides hope that she may be able to safely return to competition, as her concussion-like symptoms appear to be linked to migraines rather than actual brain trauma. This development could pave the way for Rousey's comeback fight against Gina Carano.