Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano will be subject to enhanced neurological and concussion screening before being cleared to compete in their highly anticipated MMA return on 16 May in California.
The bout, a five-round featherweight contest, marks the first time either fighter has stepped back into MMA in over a decade.
Enhanced medical screening required
The California State Athletic Commission has confirmed both athletes must undergo extensive testing before approval. Executive director Andy Foster said the pair will complete neurological and concussion battery assessments, along with a full medical review.
Under commission guidelines — informed by the Association of Ringside Physicians — older fighters may require blood work, neurocognitive testing, MRI and MRA brain scans, EKG and cardiac evaluations. Carano, 43, falls into the over-40 category that triggers additional scrutiny.
Rousey’s concussion history
Ronda Rousey, now 39, has previously spoken about long-term concussion issues that contributed to her retirement from MMA 10 years ago. She revealed she concealed neurological damage for years, including around the time of her defeat by Holly Holm, before eventually stepping away following a knockout loss to Amanda Nunes.
Foster said there are no concerns about the contest provided both fighters pass their required medical checks.
Long-awaited showdown
Gina Carano retired 17 years ago with a 7-1 record and is widely regarded as a pioneer of women’s MMA. Rousey, a former UFC champion with a 12-2 record, became the promotion’s first female signing and one of its biggest stars.
The matchup has long been discussed but never materialised during their competitive peaks. It will now headline the first MMA event streamed on Netflix, bringing together two of the most recognisable figures in the sport’s history.
Discussion about this post