Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano will undergo extensive medical tests before returning to MMA
Over the next few months, Ronda Rousey is set to make it a decade-long return to MMAwhile her returning opponent, Gina Carano, will put on her fighting gloves in the professional lineup after a nearly 17-year hiatus.
Promotes MVP Jake Paul and is scheduled to stream live on Netflix from Los Angeles’ Intuit Dome in May. 16, 2026. However, before her show, Rousey and Carano must undergo medical and neurological testing. These tests are expected to be more extensive than what athletes are usually subjected to.
Also, according to a statement by California State Athletic Commission CEO Andy Foster to ESPN, Rousey will have to undergo a battery of concussion tests. Rousey’s concussion concerns surfaced after she spoke about it while promoting her memoir, Our Struggle, a few years ago. Rousey noted that she has had a long history of concussions dating back to her time in judo, a sport in which she even won a bronze medal at the 2008 Olympics. She further revealed that she has been hiding her concussion issues from the UFC.
Carano will also need further testing due to her age and extended period of inactivity. Following the recommendations of the Association of Ringside Physicians, the California Commission regulates fighters over the age of 40 with a comprehensive medical evaluation. This includes brain imaging (MRA and MRI), heart tests (ECG and stress echocardiogram), neurocognitive and blood assessments, a metabolic panel, and an ophthalmologic eye exam.
Carano, 41, has an MMA record of 7-1; 3 KOs, 1 submission, while Rousey will enter the fight with a 12-2 record before losing her last two fights to Holly Holm and Amanda Nunes.
2026-02-19 12:10:00
