Rousey Prepares for Netflix MMA Debut Against Carano

Why it matters locally: The return of Ronda Rousey to MMA will unfold in Inglewood, California, at the Intuit Dome, attracting significant attention and economic activity to the Southern California region. Netflix's choice to host its inaugural MMA event in Inglewood also establishes a precedent for future large-scale entertainment events within the state.

Ronda Rousey concluded her open workout in Venice Beach, California, three days before her May 16 fight against Gina Carano. The event, streamed by Netflix on Wednesday, May 13, featured Rousey grappling with a sparring partner and punching another. Rousey, 39, returns to mixed martial arts after more than ten years for the bout against Carano, 44. The fight takes place at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, and marks Netflix's first MMA event. A former UFC champion and UFC Hall of Fame inductee, Rousey seeks to redefine the end of her professional fighting career, which previously concluded with losses to Holly Holm and Amanda Nunes. She also stated her intention to create increased financial opportunities for MMA fighters. During an interview following her workout, Rousey discussed the proximity to her initial judo training grounds for the 2004 Athens Olympics. Rousey earned an Olympic bronze medal in judo at the 2008 Beijing Games. She encouraged audience members to view the fight live or via the Netflix stream.