Rousey submits Carano by armbar in 17 seconds

Ronda Rousey submitted Gina Carano by armbar in just 17 seconds during the main event at Intuit Dome, Inglewood, California on May 17, 2026. Rousey (13-2), 39, returned to the octagon and showcased her fighting prowess with her signature move against Carano (7-3), 44, who had not competed since 2009. This featherweight bout headlined Jake Paul's Most Valuable Promotions' first MMA card on Netflix.

The outcome appeared inevitable given Carano's prolonged absence from the sport, but it held special meaning for Rousey. "I was hoping to come out as unscathed as possible,"Rousey stated, reflecting on the quick finish. "I didn’t really want to hurt her. It was beautiful martial arts, that’s what I think that was. It was art."

Rousey's victory marked a significant turnaround from her past experiences in the sport, having faced knockout defeats to Holly Holm and Amanda Nunes in 2015 and 2016, leading her to step away from MMA. The fight provided her a chance to rewrite that narrative, but she confirmed post-fight that she would not compete again.

Carano, who had lost 100 pounds to prepare for the fight after accepting Rousey’s challenge in late 2024, expressed disappointment in the brief encounter. "I wanted that to last longer," she admitted. "I was so ready. I felt so good. I haven’t competed in 17 years, I wanted to hit her. But getting in here is a victory. Fighting a legend is a victory. I feel great. I just wanted to fight."

While Carano remained uncertain about her future in competition, saying, "I think 17 years [off] is a lot," Rousey initially aimed to make her return with the UFC before transitioning to possible promoter roles with MVP Promotions following business hurdles with the UFC.

Paul, who attended the event, indicated plans for further MMA card promotions under MVP, asserting that this was one of the most viewed MMA events in history. "You will definitely see more [MMA]," Paul stated. "We’re breaking records tonight. MVP is just getting warmed up. You’ll see more of us. Dana, be prepared, because this is the takeover."