Gina Carano vs. Ronda Rousey: The Return of Two MMA Pioneers

Former Mandalorian star Gina Carano is set to face former UFC champion Ronda Rousey on May 16, 2025, at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles. The bout marks Carano's return to mixed martial arts and will be the first MMA event promoted by Most Valuable Promotions, the company founded by Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian.

A Decade in the Making

"Rousey wanted only one fight, and that fight was against Carano."

Carano and Rousey first crossed paths over a decade ago at an arena, but never fought. Now, more than ten years later, their long-awaited matchup is finally set.

Carano's Journey Back

At 43, Carano lives in Las Vegas and has been training at a fighting gym for six months. She has been open about her physical struggles, stating that six months prior to September 2024, she was prediabetic, depressed, and unable to walk long distances without pain.

The road back has not been easy. Carano's last fight was years ago, and her life took a dramatic turn after she was fired from The Mandalorian in February 2021. Lucasfilm called her social media posts "abhorrent and unacceptable," and her planned spinoff, Rangers of the New Republic, was canceled.

In 2024, Carano sued The Walt Disney Co. for wrongful termination, with backing from Elon Musk. The lawsuit was settled in August 2024, and as part of the settlement, Disney issued a statement saying Carano "was always well respected by her directors, co-stars, and staff" and expressed interest in working with her again.

Making Peace with the Past

In late January 2025, Carano had a Zoom call with Mandalorian creator Jon Favreau and Lucasfilm chief creative officer Dave Filoni. She described it as a conversation to "mend" and would not disclose whether it involved a return to Star Wars.

"I hold no grudges. Outrage culture is simmering down."

Carano declined to disclose details of the settlement with Disney. When asked about Kathleen Kennedy, she said simply, "I wish her the best." She also expressed hope that The Mandalorian & Grogu film does well at the box office.

She does not keep in touch with former co-star Pedro Pascal, last speaking when Carl Weathers died in February 2024.

The Fight Ahead

Carano and Rousey have met at press conferences and stare-downs. Carano reports that Rousey has not adopted a villainous persona and has been straightforward and warm.

What Comes Next

"I want to return to acting. To tell stories, and to be passionate about my work, like never before."

Carano has a new manager who is also a producer, and projects are in development. Her post-fight plans include a return to acting, with a renewed sense of purpose and passion.