After years of fantasy matchmaking and endless debate, the moment has finally arrived. This Saturday, Netflix steps into the Octagon for the first time, and they're doing it with a fight that feels like it was pulled straight from a fan's wildest imagination: Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano.
Let's be honest—no matter what year it is, the fact that this fight is actually happening is surreal. Add in the star power of Jake Paul's Most Valuable Promotions and the global reach of Netflix, and you've got the makings of an event that's equal parts bizarre and brilliant. But here's the thing: bizarre doesn't have to mean bad. In fact, this card is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing MMA events in recent memory.
Sure, former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou is the only truly elite fighter on the roster, and he's still arguably the best heavyweight on the planet. But the supporting cast is where this card really shines. Nate Diaz vs. Mike Perry? That's a brawl waiting to happen. And with a handful of promising prospects sprinkled throughout the undercard, Saturday's lineup feels like a much-needed breath of fresh air for a sport that's been craving exactly that.
Is this the most competitive matchmaking we've ever seen? Not by a long shot. But MVP has put together a debut event that deserves the attention of every MMA fan, whether you've been watching since the early UFC days or you're just getting into the sport.
Now, let's talk about the main event. It's tempting to imagine Rousey vs. Carano turning into an instant classic—a back-and-forth war that lives up to years of hype. But if we're being realistic, that's probably the least likely outcome.
Carano, now 44, is making her return after a staggering 17-year layoff. To her credit, she looks to be in fantastic shape, but the reality is she's got little more than a puncher's chance. Back in her prime, Carano was one of the better strikers in women's MMA, but that was nearly two decades ago against competition that was still finding its footing. We saw what happened when she faced Cris Cyborg in 2009—her last fight before this comeback—and the sport has evolved exponentially since then.
That said, Carano does have two things working in her favor: size and striking ability. In theory, that's all she should need against Rousey, who has always been a Judo specialist first and foremost. Rousey has never been known for her striking, and she'll be in danger from the opening bell until she can get her hands on Carano. And let's face it—getting her hands on Carano is inevitable.
