Nate Diaz Calls Netflix's First MMA Card the 'Best of the Free Fighters'

Diaz, Rousey, Ngannou, and other top stars set to headline Netflix's inaugural MMA event on May 16.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 12:05am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An abstract, expressionist painting in neon colors depicting the dynamic movements and intensity of MMA fighters, conveying the excitement and anticipation surrounding the upcoming Netflix MMA event.The upcoming Netflix MMA event promises to showcase the raw energy and talent of some of the sport's biggest free agents.Inglewood Today

Some of the biggest names in MMA, including Nate Diaz, Ronda Rousey, Francis Ngannou, and Gina Carano, are set to headline Netflix's first-ever MMA event on May 16 at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California. The event, promoted by Jake Paul's Most Valuable Promotions, has been dubbed the 'best of the free fighters' by Diaz, who took a dig at the UFC while hyping up the stacked card.

Why it matters

The Netflix MMA event represents a major shift in the landscape of the sport, as it brings together top fighters who are not currently signed to the UFC. This could open up new opportunities for fighters to showcase their talents on a global platform outside of the UFC's dominance.

The details

The main event will feature the return of Ronda Rousey, who will face Gina Carano, while Francis Ngannou and Nate Diaz are also set to compete on the card. The event will be the first MMA venture for Netflix, and is being promoted by Jake Paul's Most Valuable Promotions.

  • The Netflix MMA event is scheduled for May 16, 2026.
  • The pre-fight press conference took place on April 16, 2026.

The players

Nate Diaz

A popular UFC fighter who has been outspoken about fighter pay and contracts, and is set to compete on the Netflix MMA card.

Ronda Rousey

A former UFC women's bantamweight champion who is making a comeback to face Gina Carano on the Netflix MMA card.

Francis Ngannou

A former UFC heavyweight champion who has been critical of the UFC's pay and contract policies, and is set to compete on the Netflix MMA card.

Gina Carano

A former MMA fighter and actress who is set to face Ronda Rousey in the main event of the Netflix MMA card.

Jake Paul

The founder of Most Valuable Promotions, which is promoting the Netflix MMA event.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It's a big opportunity to be part of Netflix's first MMA card—to be alongside these guys right here, the best of the best. The best of the free.”

— Nate Diaz

“It's the reality. Can you count how many fighters out there are free and can be in this spot? This is the opportunity so many fighters would like to have, but which of them would be able to take it? Maybe they are stuck in a contract that most don't like.”

— Francis Ngannou

What’s next

The Netflix MMA event is scheduled to take place on May 16, 2026 at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California.

The takeaway

The Netflix MMA event represents a significant shift in the sport, as it brings together top fighters who are not currently signed to the UFC. This could open up new opportunities for fighters to showcase their talents on a global platform and potentially challenge the UFC's dominance in the industry.