Gina Carano Offers Prayers to ‘Hate-Filled’ Sean Strickland’s Controversial Comments

Gina Carano reinforces her standing as one of the pioneers of women's MMA by responding to Sean Strickland's comments.

Gina Carano Offers Prayers to ‘Hate-Filled’ Sean Strickland’s Controversial Comments

Gina Carano replies to Sean Strickland (via CODE Sports, LADbible)

In Short
  • Gina Carano responded to Sean Strickland's demeaning comments about women's MMA, emphasizing the need for compassion.
  • Carano is set to return to the octagon to fight Ronda Rousey after nearly 17 years, reigniting interest in women's MMA.
  • UFC CEO Dana White played a key role in facilitating the Carano-Rousey matchup, acknowledging Carano's contributions to the sport.

Women’s MMA became legitimate after Ronda Rousey, Cris Cyborg, and Amanda Nunes dominated the octagon for many years. While Gina Carano’s career was less decorated, her influence as an early pioneer of women’s MMA remains undeniable. She recently reaffirmed her status by responding to Sean Strickland’s demeaning comments, showing why her name belongs among the best.

Carano began her professional MMA career in 2006, gaining attention for her striking and athleticism. She competed in EliteXC and Strikeforce, compiling a 7‑1 record before retiring in 2009. Wins over Kaitlin Young and Tonya Evinger made her one of the first widely recognized female fighters in North America. Despite a short career, she helped popularize women’s MMA and pave the way for future champions.

Carano is returning to the octagon to face Ronda Rousey under the MVP MMA banner, nearly 17 years after her retirement. The matchup has drawn attention after Sean Strickland spoke about the fight in a demeaning way, diminishing the credibility of women’s MMA. Following the inaugural press conference for the Rousey fight, Carano responded strongly to the controversial middleweight’s commentary.

I think he’s got a little bit twisted. I don’t really pay attention to him or his words. I think they’re sadly coming from a hurt place and hurt people hurt people. I think that he’s being exploited a bit, and that pain is on full display, and you know, all you can really do is just pray for healing, that man.

Gina Carano via FightHype

Strickland is one of the most controversial fighters in the UFC, often drawing attention for his outspoken views. He has made remarks on women’s roles, gun laws, and politics that sparked debate. This was not the first time he demeaned women’s MMA, reflecting a pattern of dismissive commentary toward female fighters. His remarks about the upcoming Carano‑Rousey matchup continued that trend.

Carano noted that Strickland’s demeaning comments may stem from a hurt place, which could explain his behavior. Strickland has openly discussed his abusive childhood and strained relationship with his father. These experiences have made him emotional and vulnerable at times throughout his career. Carano’s remarks highlighted the personal context behind his statements without excusing their dismissive nature.

This was not the first time Sean Strickland was called out by women’s MMA fighters for demeaning remarks. UFC flyweight champion Valentina Shevchenko has also challenged him and responded to his statements. His repeated commentary has drawn criticism from multiple fighters. The Gina Carano situation further shows how his remarks continue to raise questions about respect for women in MMA.

Gina Carano credits UFC boss for influencing her return to the Octagon

UFC CEO Dana White has consistently supported Gina Carano in recent times despite not having a good relationship in the beginning. White previously criticized ESPN for excluding Carano from its list of all-time great fighters. He has highlighted her pioneering role in women’s MMA and her impact on the sport’s growth in North America. White’s advocacy underscores his recognition of Carano’s contributions beyond the UFC octagon.

Dana White didn't like Gina Carano’s exclusion from ESPN’s all-time WMMA list
Dana White didn’t like Gina Carano’s exclusion from ESPN’s all-time WMMA list (via Imago/X)

The fight between Carano and Rousey was originally planned during their primes, with both fighters eager for the matchup. Carano previously stated that White played a role in the bout not happening. She held White partly responsible for delaying what could have been a landmark fight. Her recent comments show a phone call for the UFC CEO reignited the process and influenced her return.

Dana called me and revealed that Ronda is nine months pregnant, and she wants to fight (after that). The only one she wants to fight is you, and at that time, I was extremely sick of my body. I had a couple of rough and tough years, like a lot of us did have. At that time, you know, I was like, ‘Absolutely’, and it slowly got real as of 2025 and on and on. It’s pretty incredible and surreal to be here today. I didn’t know I needed this so bad.

Gina Carano via MMA Junkie

Ronda Rousey, on the other hand, has criticized the UFC over low fighter pay and said she was offered lower wages to fight Carano. Her concerns highlight debates about compensation for high-profile matchups in mixed martial arts. The discussion reflects broader scrutiny of UFC practices. The renewed Carano‑Rousey matchup, influenced by White’s phone call, brings both fighters back into the spotlight.

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