Mixed martial arts fans, get ready for a throwback—because independent sponsors are making a comeback, at least for one historic night.

This weekend, MVP MMA 1: Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano takes center stage at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, California, on Saturday, May 16, 2026. And in a move that's turning heads across the fight world, fighters will be allowed to rock their own exclusive sponsors on walkout gear, fight shorts, and tops.

For those who remember the golden era of MMA, sponsor-covered shorts were more than just flashy—they were a lifeline. Brands like Bad Boy, Affliction, Hayabusa, Dynamic Fastener, and even Condom Depot helped fighters pad their wallets, often paying more than the fight purse itself. That's why the UFC's exclusive uniform deal with Reebok in 2015 (later switching to Venom) sparked outrage, wiping out nearly all independent sponsorships overnight.

To put it in perspective, former UFC heavyweight Brendan Schaub once revealed he earned six figures from sponsors while making just $30,000 to show and win. For many fighters, that extra cash was the difference between breaking even and actually profiting from their craft.

Now, MVP co-founder Nakisa Bidarian is flipping the script. "When we started MVP, Jake [Paul] and I definitely talked about the possibility of it," Bidarian explained. "We both clearly aligned on that we want fighters to have their own individuality and the opportunity to make extra money where they can."

Bidarian confirmed that fighters at MVP MMA 1 will have the freedom to display sponsors on their gear, though certain categories—like illegal or unregulated products—won't get the green light. "There are obviously categories that you can't have sponsors from," he added, "but overall it is a great opportunity for the fighters."

Ironically, Bidarian himself was heavily involved in implementing the UFC's original uniform policy years ago. Now, he's helping lead the charge back to fighter freedom—and for fans, that means a more authentic, old-school feel to the biggest MMA event on Netflix.