Dana White Clears Air Around ‘Hard Feelings’ About Ronda Rousey vs Gina Carano Netflix Fight

UFC CEO Dana White reveals that there is bad blood with Ronda Rousey after she is set to fight Gina Carano under MVP MMA.

Dana White Clears Air Around ‘Hard Feelings’ About Ronda Rousey vs Gina Carano Netflix Fight

Dana White talks about Ronda Rousey's return (via MMA Mania)

In Short
  • Dana White expressed no hard feelings regarding Ronda Rousey's fight with Gina Carano outside the UFC.
  • Rousey and White maintain a positive relationship despite her fighting under Most Valuable Promotions.
  • Dana White is open to Alex Pereira's move to the heavyweight division, supporting his ambitions for a third title.

Dana White has driven the UFC into a multi-billion-dollar powerhouse through strict contractual structures binding every fighter under its banner. Many expected tension when Ronda Rousey agreed to face Gina Carano under the Most Valuable Promotions banner, rather than the UFC. However, the UFC CEO recently clarified he was not bothered and wished Rousey well in her comeback against Carano.

Rousey became the first female fighter to sign with the UFC and its inaugural women’s bantamweight champion, playing a central role in launching the promotion’s women’s divisions. Her dominance drove major pay-per-view success and expanded the organization’s reach. During that rise, she maintained a strong professional relationship with White before retiring from MMA in 2016 after consecutive defeats.

There was speculation that Rousey might return at the UFC White House event due to her American heritage and UFC legacy. She dismissed the idea, revealing she had no plans to return, and laughed it off. After her fight against Carano was announced, some assumed tension with White. However, White recently clarified that their relationship remained intact while recognizing the accomplishments of both fighters.

Her and I have been talking about this since last year and it just didn’t work out. I’m happy…listen me and Gina are in a really good place, we weren’t at one point and I’m happy for both of them.

Dana White via UFC Houston press conference

Another reason fans assumed tension between Rousey and White was that she is fighting under the Most Valuable Promotions banner, co-owned by Jake Paul. Paul has repeatedly criticized White and the UFC for low fighter pay and its promotional structure. This association fueled speculation that ‘Rowdy’s choice might create friction. However, the UFC CEO has dismissed any concerns regarding their relationship.

Carano had a pioneering run in the UFC, helping establish women’s MMA as a mainstream sport in the late 2000s. White has consistently supported her, publicly defending her achievements and advocating for recognition. He once called out ESPN for excluding Carano from all-time greatest women’s MMA lists. Over the years, White backed her on multiple occasions, highlighting her role in shaping the sport.

Gina Carano has said her original UFC fight against Ronda Rousey fell through because of the UFC boss. She mentioned he had been aggressive in texts during negotiations, fueling speculation of tension. Despite this, Dana White’s recent comments show there is no bad blood between him, Rousey, and Carano. The Netflix fight now highlights their achievements while confirming professional respect remains intact.

Dana White gives Alex Pereira green light for a heavyweight move

Alex Pereira has shown unmatched dominance in the UFC since his debut in 2021, quickly claiming the middleweight title before capturing the light heavyweight belt. He has scored knockout victories over top-tier opponents, including Israel Adesanya and Jiri Prochazka. Throughout his career, Pereira has consistently spoken about pursuing a third belt, as his ultimate goal remains a move to the heavyweight division

Dana White ready to allow Alex Pereira to do whatever he wants
Dana White is ready to allow Alex Pereira to do whatever he wants (via X)

His request to move to heavyweight grew stronger after ‘Poatan’ regained the light heavyweight title by knocking out Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 320. Initially, Dana White stated that Pereira would need to make additional title defenses before a division change could be considered. This plan ensured competitive integrity in the division. However, White’s recent comments indicate the UFC is now open to his move.

Whatever that guy wants to do, we’ll work with him.

Dana White via UFC

If Pereira moves to heavyweight, it would mark a historic achievement as he pursues a third UFC title across three divisions. His striking power and championship experience make him a formidable contender in the new weight class. Dana White’s openness underscores the UFC’s willingness to accommodate elite fighters’ ambitions.

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