The stage is set for one of the most anticipated MMA events in recent memory. Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) is making its debut in mixed martial arts this Saturday night, May 16, 2026, with "Rousey vs. Carano" at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles. This Netflix-streamed spectacle promises to be a game-changer for the sport.
The main event features a five-round featherweight showdown between former UFC bantamweight champion Ronda Rousey and ex-Strikeforce star Gina Carano. It's a clash of two pioneering women who helped put women's MMA on the map. Adding to the star power, the card also includes UFC veterans like Nate Diaz, Mike Perry, Francis Ngannou, and Philipe Lins.
Now, the California State Athletic Commission (CSAC) has released the official referee and judging assignments for the event. In a major highlight, the legendary "Big" John McCarthy will return to oversee the main event. He'll be joined by judges Derek Cleary, Michael Bell, and Felicia Oh at cageside.
Here's the full lineup of officials for the night:
Main Event — Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano
Referee: John McCarthy
Judges: Derek Cleary, Michael Bell, Felicia Oh
Co-Main Event
Referee: Mike Beltran
Judges: Chris Leben, Marcel Verela, Raphael Davis
Other Fights
Referee: Herb Dean | Judges: Ron McCarthy, Jonathan Romero, Chris Crail
Referee: Jason Herzog | Judges: Derek Cleary, Michael Bell, Felicia Oh
Referee: Frank Trigg | Judges: Chris Leben, Daniel Mobley, Chris Crail
Referee: Jason Herzog | Judges: Ron McCarthy, Michael Bell, Raphael Davis
Referee: Herb Dean | Judges: Derek Cleary, Daniel Mobley, Gokor Chivichyan
Referee: John McCarthy | Judges: George Allen, Marcel Varela, Jon Marigliano
Referee: Jason Herzog | Judges: Jovany Varela, Gokor Chivichyan, Raphael Davis
Referee: Mike Beltran | Judges: George Allen, Jonathan Romero, John Margliano
Referee: Frank Trigg | Judges: Jovany Varela, Daniel Mobley, Jon Marigliano
As Rousey herself put it at the kickoff press conference, "Fighting for MVP and on Netflix makes this fight bigger than us. It's a game-changer for the entire industry." Indeed, this event is set to redefine what's possible for fighters and fans alike. Whether you're gearing up for fight night or just love the sport, this is a moment you won't want to miss.