Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano are set to undergo extensive concussion testing ahead of the Netflix superfight

Two of the most famous names in women’s MMA history return to the spotlight, but before anyone can throw a punch, both fighters will have to overcome a significant medical hurdle.

Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano have been ordered to undergo “extensive” concussion testing ahead of their highly-anticipated superfight to air on Netflix, according to reports. The news signals that both the promotion and the streaming giant are taking fighter safety seriously in what is shaping up to be one of the most exciting combat sports events in recent memory.

Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano will have to undergo more extensive medical and neurological testing than is required of all combat sports athletes ahead of their May 16 comeback fight, and Rousey will undergo a battery of concussion tests, according to…

— ESPN MMA (@espnmma) February 19, 2026

The decision to perform thorough neurological evaluations is not surprising given the careers both women have had. Rousey, 38, suffered back-to-back brutal knockout losses to Holly Holm in 2015 and Amanda Nunes in 2016, both of which have raised serious questions about her long-term brain health. Carano, now 43, had her share of wars inside the cage before transitioning to a career in Hollywood. Neither has competed professionally in nearly a decade, making the medical evaluation process even more critical.

Reports indicate the testing will go beyond standard pre-combat physical measures, including advanced neuroimaging and cognitive assessments designed to detect any lingering effects of previous trauma. The depth of the assessment reflects the growing awareness in combat sports of CTE and cumulative brain injury, a conversation that has never been more prominent than today.

Netflix has quickly become a legitimate player in combat sports, following its massive success Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson fight which achieved a record number of viewers. Rousey vs. Carano fits the appetite of the streaming platform for the spectacle of big events, two legends with built-in name recognition, crossover appeal and history that fans have long wanted to see back in the cage.

It remains to be seen whether these two icons can pass the necessary tests. But one thing’s for sure: If both Rousey and Carano get the medical green light, Netflix will have a real combat sports event that MMA fans won’t want to miss.