The stage is set for an unforgettable night of combat sports this Saturday, May 16, 2026, as the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, plays host to MVP MMA 1. In a main event that has fans buzzing, former UFC women's bantamweight champion Ronda Rousey makes her long-awaited return to the cage, facing fellow pioneer Gina Carano, who is also stepping back into the spotlight. It's a clash of legends that promises fireworks.
Here at MMAmania.com, we've got a weekly tradition called "Weekend Lock," where we pick one bet we're confident will cash when the dust settles. This week, we're stepping away from the UFC and focusing on this mega Netflix card—because, honestly, it's the one we can't stop thinking about. Our lock? Nate Diaz vs. Mike Perry to go over 2.5 rounds at -210.
Now, we know what you're thinking: betting the over on a fight involving Diaz or Perry sounds crazy. These two are known for their violent, no-nonsense styles. But when you break down their histories and fighting approaches, the logic becomes crystal clear.
Neither Diaz nor Perry is a one-punch knockout artist. Sure, Perry hits hard—he's built a reputation on pressure and attrition, wearing opponents down rather than flatlining them instantly. Diaz, meanwhile, is the ultimate volume striker, overwhelming foes with relentless output, iron cardio, and an uncanny ability to absorb punishment. Explosive power? Not their trademark.
And that brings us to the key word: durability. Diaz has spent nearly two decades eating shots from elite strikers and simply marching forward. Perry? He's taken that toughness to another level, building a second career in bare-knuckle fighting by refusing to break. Both men are built to last.
There's another factor at play: ring rust. Neither fighter has competed in MMA in years. Diaz's last bout was against Tony Ferguson in 2022, while Perry hasn't stepped into the cage since facing Da—both are shaking off significant layoffs, which often leads to cautious starts and longer fights.
So while the hype suggests a quick, brutal finish, the smart money is on these two warriors grinding it out deep into the rounds. What's your MVP MMA 1 "Weekend Lock"? Drop your most confident pick in the comments below—we want to hear what you're riding with this weekend.