Ronda Rousey’s Triumphant Return to MMA

The Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, transformed into a lively spectacle on a recent Saturday night, overshadowing the recent NBA All-Star Weekend. Hosted by Jake Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions, the arena buzzed with celebrities, influencers, former fighters, and devoted fans of MMA legends like Ronda Rousey, Gina Carano, Nate Diaz, and Francis Ngannou.

Ronda Rousey and her husband, Travis Browne, embraced after Rousey defeated Gina Carano in a featherweight bout. The match was part of Netflix’s main card event, held on May 16, 2026. Spectators barely had time to blink. Rousey took only 17 seconds to dismantle Carano’s aspirations of a comeback.

The night featured more than the main event excitement. Cuban heavyweight Robelis Despaigne scored a punishing first-round knockout against former UFC champion Junior dos Santos. The crowd buzzed as Francis Ngannou expertly knocked out Philipe Lins, also in the first round. This victory stoked the fans further when Ngannou directed his adrenaline-fueled energy towards Jon Jones, who was present at ringside.

Mike Perry and Nate Diaz followed, delivering a brutal confrontation. By the end of the second round, Diaz’s face was cut, and the canvas appeared stained with struggle. Perry, energized by his win via a doctor stoppage, challenged Paul to a future bout amid spectators filming the chaotic scene from their seats.

“This is for all MMA fans,” Rousey had proclaimed, stepping back into the octagon after a near decade-long absence.

Gina Carano’s face-off against Rousey revived memories of their unfulfilled prime rivalry. The fans, eager for years, were rewarded with an iconic match-up. But it was a swift battle, showcasing Rousey’s game as she executed a judo takedown and locked an armbar in quick succession.

Reflecting on the night, Rousey declared her return to be temporary. Despite the roaring crowd yearning for more, she expressed a longing for family life. “I want more babies, and I’ve got to get cooking,” Rousey remarked, alluding to her future plans.

The night was steeped in nostalgia and a poignant reminder of Rousey’s impact on women’s MMA. Carano, while defeated, found personal growth in revisiting the sport. “I fell back in love with mixed martial arts,” Carano said, her passion reignited despite the outcome.

If this was indeed Ronda Rousey’s final fight, her brief yet decisive return provided a fitting chapter, characterized by dominance and legacy.

Contact Alejandro Avila at [email protected]. Follow on X: @alejandroaveela