MMA legends Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano are stepping back in the octagon in May. The pair, who retired 10 and 17 years ago, respectively, are considered megastars in the sport, and their returns are likely to prove popular for Netflix, which will be streaming the bout, its first live MMA event, on May 16.
MMA has seen its viewing figures rise dramatically in recent years, culminating in the attraction’s first live streaming event on Netflix. The card is set for May 16 and features a star-studded card. As well as the return of Ronda Rousey and Gina Carrano, Nate Diaz will take on Mike Perry while Francis Ngannou fights Philippe Lins.
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Rousey vs Carano
Many stars go on to enjoy successful careers outside the ring, thanks to the sport’s popularity. Rousey and Carano have both featured in major franchises. Rousey featured in Furious 7 and The Expendables 3, while Carano also featured in the Fast & Furious franchise before taking a regular role in The Mandalorian.
Carano was a trailblazer in women’s MMA. She was the first female megastar to compete before women were allowed in the UFC. Her fight against Cris “Cyborg” Justino was the first professional bout between two women.
Such was her impact that she inspired a generation of women to follow her into the octagon, including Ronda Rousey. Rousey shows obvious respect for her opponent, saying Carano is the only opponent she would consider a comeback for.
Rousey said, “Gina is so relevant that she’s the whole reason the 145lb division even exists.”
Rousey ended her fighting career with a 12-2 record, while Carano’s only loss in a 7-1 career came in her final fight against Cris Cyborg in 2009.
The fight is being hosted by Jake Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) and streamed live on Netflix – a first for both outfits. While the Rousey v Carano fight is the headline act, the undercard is also stacked with former champions and fan favourites.
Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano arrive to the kickoff press conference for #RouseyCarano — the first-ever MMA fight on Netflix—RONDA ROUSEY vs. GINA CARANOSaturday May 16LIVE only on Netflix pic.twitter.com/fafbHLkm9K
— Netflix (@netflix) March 10, 2026
The Rest Of The Card
Nate Diaz, known for his fierce rivalry with Conor McGregor, will fight “Platinum” Mike Perry. Perry has gone on to fight in Triad Combat and, more recently, the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship.
Also on the undercard, Francis Ngannou takes on Philipe Lins. In reference to his move to boxing, Ngannous said, “While the world was busy talking, I was busy evolving.”
Ngannou has only taken part in two boxing matches, but his opponents in those bouts were Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua. The Cameroonian lost a split decision against Fury in 2023 before being knocked out in the second round against Joshua in 2024.
His opponent, Brazilian fighter Lins, has an 18-5 record in MMA but was cut from the UFC in 2024 despite reinventing himself in the 205lbs division and winning his first two fights.
The card will be streamed live on Netflix, where members will be able to view the entire four hour event without having to pay extra.
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