Gina Carano: The Fight That Never Was
In the world of mixed martial arts, matchups between legendary fighters are often the subject of intense speculation and anticipation. One such dream fight that never materialized was between Gina Carano and Ronda Rousey, two iconic figures in women’s MMA.
The UFC’s Female Revolution:
When Ronda Rousey burst onto the UFC scene in 2013, she shattered stereotypes and proved that women belonged in the Octagon. However, what many fans may not know is that before Rousey, there was Gina Carano, a pioneer in women’s combat sports.
Carano’s journey in combat sports began long before the UFC embraced female fighters. In the mid-2000s, she rose to prominence in organizations like Strikeforce, captivating audiences with her skill, charisma, and undeniable star power. Her fights were not just showcases of athleticism but also milestones in the progression of women’s MMA.
A Missed Opportunity
In a recent interview on the PBD podcast, Carano revealed a fascinating tidbit about her relationship with UFC President Dana White. Before her highly anticipated bout with Cris Cyborg in Strikeforce, White expressed a keen interest in bringing Carano into the UFC fold.
It was a tantalizing prospect—a potential union between the most famous female fighter of the time and the premier MMA organization on the planet. However, Carano’s loyalty to Strikeforce, coupled with contractual obligations, prevented her from leaping the UFC at the time.
The Comeback Talks
Years later, as Ronda Rousey dominated headlines as the face of women’s MMA, talks of a potential showdown between Carano and Rousey began to surface. Carano, now fully immersed in her burgeoning acting career, found herself drawn back to the world of MMA by the allure of a blockbuster matchup.
The prospect of a Carano-Rousey showdown sent shockwaves through the MMA community, igniting fervent speculation and debate. Could the original “face of women’s MMA” make a triumphant return to the cage against the formidable Rousey?
Challenges and Setbacks
Yet, as negotiations between Carano’s camp and the UFC dragged on, it became increasingly apparent that hurdles lay ahead. Carano faced myriad challenges in her quest to return to competition, from the grueling process of weight cutting to the logistical complexities of training.
In her interview, Carano candidly shared her struggles with weight management, highlighting the stark reality of the 135-pound weight class dominated by Rousey and her contemporaries. For Carano, making the cut to 135 pounds was akin to “chopping off a leg,” a testament to the physical and mental toll of the sport.
Hollywood Calling
Complicating matters further were the siren calls of Hollywood. As negotiations with the UFC dragged on, Carano found herself inundated with offers from the entertainment industry. Roles in blockbuster films like Deadpool beckoned, presenting tantalizing opportunities beyond the confines of the Octagon.
The allure of Hollywood’s glitz and glamour posed a formidable challenge to Carano’s aspirations of a comeback. Balancing the demands of acting with the rigors of MMA training proved to be an intricate dance, one that ultimately pulled her further away from the prospect of a showdown with Rousey.
Confidence and Respect
Despite the fight never materializing, Carano remains unwavering in her belief in her abilities. In her interview, she exuded confidence as she reflected on the hypothetical matchup with Rousey, citing her punching power and resilience as key factors in her hypothetical victory.
Yet, amidst her unwavering self-assurance, Carano also expressed profound respect for Rousey—a sentiment rooted in admiration for her contributions to the sport. Despite their paths never crossing inside the cage, Carano and Rousey share a mutual respect and appreciation for each other’s impact on women’s MMA.
Mutual Admiration
Carano’s admiration for Rousey extends beyond mere accolades. In her interview, she lauds Rousey as a trailblazer—a figure who transcended the confines of the sport to become a cultural icon. Despite the occasional spats and jabs typical of the fight game, Carano’s respect for Rousey’s accomplishments remains unwavering.
In Rousey, Carano sees a kindred spirit—a fellow pioneer who defied expectations and shattered barriers in the male-dominated world of combat sports. Their paths may have diverged, but their legacies as trailblazers in women’s MMA endure—a testament to their indelible impact on the sport.
