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Ronda Rousey, Gina Carano Set for May 16 MMA Return

3/17/2026

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Summary

Rousey and Carano Return

Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano will fight on May 16, marking their returns to mixed martial arts after lengthy absences.
Ronda Rousey last fought in 2016.
Ronda Rousey has criticized the UFC and Hunter Campbell over negotiations.
The event will feature Nate Diaz and Francis Ngannou under Jake Paul's Most Valuable Promotions.
The event also features other notable fighters beyond Diaz and Ngannou.

Summary

Diaz Faces Perry

Nate Diaz (MMA fighter) will return to competition on May 16 to face Mike Perry (MMA fighter) in a five-round welterweight bout at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles.
The event is part of a major card headlined by Ronda Rousey (MMA fighter) vs. Gina Carano and Francis Ngannou (MMA fighter) vs. Philippe Lins.
Diaz last fought in 2022.
Most Valuable Promotions expects record Netflix viewership for the event.

History

Historical Context

Women's mixed martial arts (MMA) gained prominence in the U.S. after the first female fight in 1997 and the main event featuring Gina Carano in 2009. In 2012, the UFC integrated women's divisions, with Ronda Rousey becoming the inaugural Women's Bantamweight Champion. This marked a significant shift in the sport, leading to increased visibility and acceptance of female athletes in combat sports.

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Rousey and Carano Return

Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano will fight on May 16, marking their returns to mixed martial arts after lengthy absences.
Ronda Rousey last fought in 2016.
Ronda Rousey has criticized the UFC and Hunter Campbell over negotiations.
The event will feature Nate Diaz and Francis Ngannou under Jake Paul's Most Valuable Promotions.
The event also features other notable fighters beyond Diaz and Ngannou.

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