Rousey and Carano to Undergo Extensive Medical Tests Before MMA Comeback

The two former MMA stars must pass rigorous health evaluations before their anticipated fight in May 2026.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano are set to make their long-awaited returns to MMA, but before their anticipated fight in May 2026, the two former stars must undergo extensive medical and neurological testing required by the California State Athletic Commission. Rousey, who has a history of concussions, will have to pass a concussion battery test, while the 41-year-old Carano will need comprehensive evaluations due to her age and extended period of inactivity.

Why it matters

The medical testing requirements highlight the increased scrutiny and safety protocols around combat sports, especially for veteran fighters returning from long layoffs. Rousey and Carano's comebacks have generated significant interest, but the commissions want to ensure their health and wellbeing are prioritized before allowing them to compete.

The details

Rousey and Carano's fight is being promoted by Jake Paul's MVP and will be live-streamed on Netflix from Los Angeles' Intuit Dome on May 16, 2026. However, before the bout, Rousey must undergo concussion battery testing due to her history of head injuries, while Carano, who is 41 years old, will need a comprehensive medical evaluation including brain imaging, cardiac tests, neurocognitive assessments, and more.

  • Rousey and Carano's fight is scheduled for May 16, 2026.
  • Rousey has a history of concussions dating back to her time in judo, which she competed in at the 2008 Olympics.

The players

Ronda Rousey

A former Olympic bronze medalist in judo and a former UFC women's bantamweight champion, Rousey is making a comeback to MMA after a decade-long hiatus.

Gina Carano

A former MMA fighter with a 7-1 record, including 3 KOs and 1 submission, Carano is returning to the sport after nearly 17 years of inactivity.

Jake Paul

A YouTuber-turned-boxer who is promoting Rousey and Carano's comeback fight through his company, MVP.

Andy Foster

The executive director of the California State Athletic Commission, which is overseeing the medical testing requirements for Rousey and Carano.

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What they’re saying

“Rousey will have to undergo concussion battery testing.”

— Andy Foster, California State Athletic Commission Executive Director (ESPN)

“I had a long history of concussions dating back to my time in judo, and I even hid my concussion issues from the UFC.”

— Ronda Rousey (Our Fight (Rousey's memoir)

What’s next

The California State Athletic Commission will review the results of Rousey and Carano's medical tests in the coming weeks to determine if they are cleared to compete in their anticipated MMA fight on May 16, 2026.

The takeaway

The extensive medical testing requirements for Rousey and Carano's comeback fight highlight the increased focus on fighter safety in combat sports, especially for veteran athletes returning from long absences. The commissions want to ensure these former stars are healthy enough to compete without risking further injury.