Rousey and Carano to Face Off in Netflix MMA Superfight

UFC boss Dana White addresses long-awaited matchup between former stars

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano, two of the biggest names in women's MMA, are set to finally meet in the octagon in a highly anticipated superfight that will stream live on Netflix. The fight, originally discussed years ago when both fighters were in their prime, was delayed due to timing issues but will now take place on May 16 at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California.

Why it matters

The Rousey-Carano matchup represents a significant milestone for Netflix, as it marks the platform's first foray into live MMA programming. The fight also raises questions about whether Dana White and the UFC missed an opportunity to promote the bout during the fighters' prime years, or if Netflix's bold move could end up backfiring.

The details

According to Rousey, she had approached UFC CEO Dana White about making the fight happen years ago, but timing issues, including Rousey's pregnancy and Carano's need for more preparation time, ultimately delayed the bout. By the time both fighters were ready, the UFC had migrated to a new broadcast deal with Paramount, forcing Rousey to strike a deal with Jake Paul's Most Valuable Promotions to bring the fight to Netflix.

  • Rousey approached Dana White about the fight last year.
  • Rousey was nine months pregnant at one point, delaying the fight.
  • Carano needed more time to prepare for training camp.
  • The fight is scheduled for May 16, 2026 at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California.
  • The fight will stream live on Netflix.

The players

Ronda Rousey

A former UFC bantamweight champion and one of the biggest stars in women's MMA history.

Gina Carano

A former MMA fighter and actress who was one of the first women to gain mainstream popularity in the sport.

Dana White

The CEO of the UFC, who was interested in booking the Rousey-Carano fight but ultimately couldn't make it happen during the fighters' prime years.

Jake Paul

The YouTuber-turned-boxer who partnered with Rousey to bring the fight to Netflix through his Most Valuable Promotions company.

CM Punk

A former WWE star who made his own UFC debut at the age of 38, and who is optimistic about Rousey's chances despite her age.

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What they’re saying

“Yeah, you know, [Ronda] and I have been talking about this since last year. And yeah, it just didn't work out, but I'm happy for it. Listen, Gina and I are in a really good place—we weren't at one point, and I'm happy for both of them.”

— Dana White, UFC CEO (yardbarker.com)

“I think it's great. We're going to find out if she's still got it. I think fighting at an older age—trust me, I am an expert on this—it's not the easiest thing to do.”

— CM Punk (yardbarker.com)

“But she's fighting somebody who is age comparable, who also has had a long layoff. They're both big names… I think people are going to tune in—and I know I will.”

— CM Punk (yardbarker.com)

What’s next

Details regarding the undercard for the Rousey-Carano fight have yet to be announced.

The takeaway

The Rousey-Carano superfight represents a significant moment for Netflix as it makes its first foray into live MMA programming, but it also raises questions about whether Dana White and the UFC missed an opportunity to promote the bout during the fighters' prime years.