Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano: Women's MMA legends to square off

February 18, 2026 - 04:30

In a bout that will redefine the term "dream match," women's mixed martial arts pioneers Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano are officially set to compete. The two legends will square off on May 16th at the new Intuit Dome, bringing a fantasy matchup to stunning reality.

This fight represents a collision of two eras. Gina Carano, often called the face who brought women's MMA to mainstream prominence in the late 2000s, last competed professionally in 2009. Her electrifying style and star power paved the way for the next generation. That generation was led emphatically by Ronda Rousey, whose dominant reign as UFC bantamweight champion and relentless armbar finishes catapulted the women's divisions into global pay-per-view superstardom.

For years, fans and pundits have speculated about a meeting between these iconic figures, a "what if" scenario discussing who would triumph if their primes had aligned. The announcement confirms that the wait is over, transforming speculation into a must-see sporting event. The fight promises not only high-level competition but also a celebration of the profound impact both athletes have had on the entire landscape of combat sports, drawing the eyes of the sporting world to the Intuit Dome this spring.