Ronda Rousey, Gina Carano reportedly will undergo ‘a lot of medicals’ ahead of Netflix fight
MMA Fighting
February 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano, two iconic figures in mixed martial arts (MMA), are set to make a historic return to the sport under stringent medical scrutiny. The pair will face off in a five-round featherweight bout at Most Valuable Promotions’ inaugural event on May 16 in Los Angeles, which will be streamed exclusively on Netflix. This fight has sparked significant interest due to the fighters' advanced ages and prolonged layoffs, raising concerns about their health and safety. Both Rousey and Carano have faced career-altering defeats—Rousey lost back-to-back fights to Holly Holm and Amanda Nunes, while Carano's only loss came against Cris Cyborg before transitioning to acting.
The California State Athletic Commission (CSAC) has emphasized the importance of thorough medical testing for both fighters. Rousey, who has openly discussed her history of concussions, will undergo neurological and concussion battery testing. CSAC executive director Andy Foster highlighted that this extensive medical evaluation is crucial to ensuring their readiness for competition. Carano, whose career was derailed by Cyborg but transitioned successfully into acting, will also participate in these rigorous tests.
Foster acknowledged the skepticism surrounding the fight but reiterated that if both fighters pass their medical exams and neurological assessments, the bout will proceed as planned. This fight marks a significant moment not just for the athletes but for MMA fans eager to witness the return of two legends. The event’s exclusivity on Netflix adds another layer of excitement, potentially broadening the sport's appeal to new audiences.
For sports enthusiasts, this fight matters because it highlights the resilience and determination of these fighters to return to the ring after long absences. It also underscores the importance of medical oversight in high-risk sports, ensuring that athletes can compete safely. The outcome could influence perceptions about the feasibility of arranging fights for aging or inactive fighters, setting a precedent for future events. Regardless of the result, this matchup is already making waves in the MMA world, blending nostalgia with innovation in how fans engage with live sports content.
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Originally published on MMA Fighting on 2/19/2026