Ivy Caldwell
Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano created a significant moment in mixed martial arts history by returning to the ring on Saturday, May 16. Rousey, aged 39, stepped back into the octagon after retiring in 2016, while Carano, 44, marked her first fight in 17 years since her last appearance. So, who emerged victorious in the highly anticipated Carano vs. Rousey matchup?
Following the match, both athletes demonstrated remarkable sportsmanship, embracing and congratulating one another in the ring. Rousey expressed her gratitude to Carano, stating, “You changed my world, and we changed the world. I will never forget this moment or be able to repay you adequately. I’m so glad we got to share this experience.”
Read on to discover the winner of the Carano vs. Rousey bout.
Where Can I Rewatch the Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano Fight?
MMA enthusiasts can catch the fight again on Netflix, provided they have an active subscription.
In the lead-up to the competition, Carano shared insights with Netflix’s Tudum about her motivation for making a comeback to the ring.
“I needed to reclaim my body from hurt, my mind from chaos, and my spirit from the world,” Carano explained. “Fighting helps me reclaim everything.”
Rousey, the star from Furious 7, reflected on how her perspective has shifted since her departure from the sport.
“I used to believe that suffering was necessary to be the best,” Rousey shared with Tudum. “Now, I understand that finding joy is essential to achieving greatness.”
Who Was the Victor in the Rousey vs. Carano Match?
Rousey was declared the decisive winner of the contest. She swiftly defeated Carano with her trademark armbar just moments into the bout.
JUST LIKE THAT.
RONDA ROUSEY DEFEATS GINA CARANO VIA ARMBAR IN LESS THAN 20 SECONDS. #RouseyCarano pic.twitter.com/XFZQQlz3NF
— Netflix Sports (@netflixsports) May 17, 2026
What Was the Duration of the Rousey vs. Carano Fight?
The fight lasted only 17 seconds. Carano submitted to Rousey’s powerful armbar and reflected on the experience afterward, noting that nearly 20 years had passed since her last competitive match.
“I wanted the fight to last longer,” Carano remarked in the ring. “I felt ready and confident. I’ve never felt this good, but it’s been 17 years since I last fought.”
Rousey expressed her appreciation for Carano, stating during a post-fight interview, “I aimed to come out of this match as unscathed as possible. I didn’t want to hurt her.”
What Are the Earnings for the Winner?
The California State Athletic Commission published the earnings for all fighters on the main card of the May 16 event. Rousey earned $2.2 million for her comeback, while Carano received $1.05 million for her much-anticipated return to the octagon.
Clara Hastings
Sophie Langley
