Alexander Volkanovski has shared his perspective on the upcoming fight between Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano, expressing a more optimistic view than some others on the topic. The highly anticipated clash is scheduled for May 16, marking Rousey’s first MMA appearance since 2016 and Carano’s return after a long hiatus since 2009. The match is organized by Most Valuable Promotions and will stream on Netflix, targeting a wide audience and blending sports with entertainment.
Before the official announcement, Carano’s coach, John Wood, had mentioned that a comeback fight was possible, signaling the build-up to this event. Volkanovski analyzed the scenario by comparing potential viewership numbers with other top female fighters, reflecting on the broader appeal outside the traditional MMA fanbase.
Evaluating the Business and Audience Appeal
On his YouTube channel, Volkanovski weighed the fight’s potential success in drawing viewers, comparing it with events featuring Amanda Nunes and Kayla Harrison, who are both considered to be competing during their prime years. He said,
“When it comes to numbers, what do I think would do better? I think the numbers might be the same as—I don’t know. I feel like Amanda Nunes and a Kayla Harrison, would that do better numbers? I don’t know, you tell me. I’m just trying to gauge this sort of situation. I think when it comes to fighting, they’re sort of still in their prime. You could still say Amanda Nunes is still in her prime. Kayla Harrison, obviously in her prime, so they’re going to do their thing.”
Volkanovski highlighted that Rousey and Carano bring a different kind of audience due to their involvement in media outside MMA.
“But Ronda Rousey, Carano, now in a lot of movies. WWE. It being on Netflix, a whole different audience, which I like. Me, being a UFC athlete, me just being an MMA fighter, I think it’s great for the sport. I think more people might tune in. If it is the same numbers as a Kayla Harrison-Amanda Nunes, I think that it’s different people watching. I think you are going to get some of your hardcores in that as well and you’re going to get a lot of people that are maybe tuning in for other reasons. Or it’s just on Netflix. I think just MMA being on Netflix is massive.”
Background on the Fight Promotion and UFC’s Position
UFC President Dana White revealed that negotiations with Rousey fell through, although he conveyed his good wishes to her moving forward. White also confirmed that his past issues with Gina Carano have been resolved, especially concerning a disagreement involving a text message, signaling repaired relations between both parties.
The fight will be promoted under Paul’s banner, marking Most Valuable Promotions’ first MMA event rather than falling under the UFC umbrella. This move could signify a new direction for MMA business ventures outside traditional UFC events. Fans are encouraged to stay updated on the fight’s undercard and developments at BJPenn.com.
Anticipation Surrounding the Event and Future Implications
The Rousey vs. Carano fight stands out as a potential crossover event, merging MMA with entertainment platforms like Netflix and WWE, which might expand MMA’s reach to viewers who are less familiar with the sport. Given Alexander Volkanovski’s insights and the event’s backing by Most Valuable Promotions, the bout could influence how future fights are marketed and consumed, especially with established fighters stepping outside conventional MMA circuits.
