In 2025, Rousey admitted severe concussion problems led to her retirement from MMA.

For long-time MMA fans, Rousey v Carano is the super-fight that never happened, with the latter retiring a few years before her fellow American made her professional debut.

The UFC tried to make the match-up when Rousey was at the height of her powers, but were unable to reach terms.

Rousey has a 12-2 record while 43-year-old Carano is 7-1, with her only loss against Cris Cyborg in her last bout in 2009.

Carano, who became an actor after retiring, said Rousey approached her about the fight.

“Ronda came to me and said there is only one person she would make a comeback for and it has been her dream to make this fight happen between us,” said Carano.

“She thanked me for opening up doors for her in her career and was respectful in asking for this fight to happen.

“This is an honour. I believe I will walk out of this fight with the win and I anticipate it will not come easy, which I welcome.

“This is as much for Ronda and me as it is for the fans and mixed martial arts community. What a time to be alive.”

Carano recently settled a lawsuit with Disney after she was dismissed in 2021 from her role in Star Wars franchise spin-off The Mandalorian following comments she made comparing being a Republican in the US to being a Jew during the Holocaust.

Jake Paul’s promotional outfit, Most Valuable Promotions, will organise the event in its first foray into MMA.

“Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano are the two most formative figures in the history of women’s MMA; they are the icons who shattered the glass ceiling and helped build the foundation this sport stands on,” said Paul and Nakisa Bidarian in a joint statement.

“MVP’s conviction in women’s boxing was driven by the success achieved by Ronda Rousey, who was the biggest star of the entire sport of MMA during her career.”