Netflix will broadcast the much-anticipated mixed martial arts (MMA) match between Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano on May 16, according to Exitoina. The event will take place at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles and will be streamed live on the platform. This marks Netflix’s first live MMA event and comes as the streaming service competes for the acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery against Paramount, the exclusive UFC broadcaster in the U.S.

Behind the Scenes: A Documentary Preview

Ahead of the May 16 event, Netflix released a trailer for Countdown: Rousey vs. Carano, a special narrated by Uma Thurman, on Wednesday, according to Bleacher Report. The documentary-style special will provide a behind-the-scenes look at both fighters’ training camps and include commentary from Jake Paul, Nakisa Bidarian, and combat sports journalist Ariel Helwani. Rousey has not competed since 2016, while Carano has not fought since 2009. Despite their lengthy layoffs, the matchup has been a long-sought dream for fans.

Historic Significance and Fighter Statements

Rousey announced the match in a statement, saying: “I’ve been waiting a long time to announce this: Gina Carano and I are going to battle in what will be the greatest superfight in the history of women’s combat sports.” She also highlighted the partnership with Most Valuable Promotions (MVP), the event promotion company co-founded by Jake Paul, and with Netflix. Carano echoed Rousey’s sentiment, stating, “Ronda came to me and said there is only one person for whom she would return, and her dream has been to make this fight a reality.”

Carano continued: “She thanked me for opening doors in her career and was respectful in asking to make it happen. It is an honor. I believe I will come out victorious, and I anticipate it will not be easy, which I appreciate. This is as much for Ronda and for me as for the fans and the MMA community. What a special moment to be alive!”

Event Format and Platform Competition

The Rousey vs. Carano match will be held in a hexagonal cage instead of the UFC’s standard octagon. The event is the first for MVP, which has positioned itself as a promoter prioritizing female fighters. The MMA broadcast also comes at a strategic time for Netflix, as it seeks to strengthen its position in live sports, a key battleground in its ongoing competition with Paramount for the acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery.