Jake Paul’s MMA Takeover: MVP MMA 1 Highlights

On the evening of May 16, 2026, Jake Paul and his team made a splash in the world of mixed martial arts by hosting MVP MMA 1 at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, California. The event featured an underwhelming women’s Featherweight match where Ronda Rousey quickly defeated Gina Carano with her signature armbar in a mere 17 seconds (watch here). In the co-main event, Mike Perry dominated Nate Diaz, leaving him bloodied and prompting his corner to halt the fight after 10 minutes (recap here).

Future Prospects for MVP MMA

It remains uncertain whether this promotion will be a lasting venture or simply a one-time event. However, it’s worth exploring the potential paths for the winners of the main card, whether within the MVP arena or beyond.

Rousey’s Next Moves

Following her swift victory, Rousey announced her retirement from fighting, but this may not mark her exit from the MMA scene entirely. If Jake Paul and his team are serious about hosting more events, Rousey could take on a promotional role, potentially becoming the face of MVP, akin to Dana White. Additionally, she shared her excitement about expanding her family post-fight.

Perry’s Fighting Options

Mike Perry solidified his reputation as the “King of Violence” by leaving Diaz bloodied. He has the option to return to bare-knuckle fighting due to his strong ties with BKFC. Given his partnership with Jake Paul, including competing in his boxing matches and participating in this MMA event, he could have more opportunities with MVP. Despite a thin roster, there are many global Welterweights who could challenge Perry. A notable contender is Salahdine Parnasse, who defeated Kenneth Cross by TKO in the Lightweight division during the same event and called out Perry for a future fight.

Ngannou’s Ambitions

Following his decisive win over Philipe Lins, Francis Ngannou called out Jon Jones, a matchup he’s sought after for a while. Jones acknowledged the call-out but faces contractual challenges with the UFC, which typically does not favor releasing fighters. If this fight doesn’t materialize, Ngannou could return to boxing, possibly facing someone like Deontay Wilder.

Parnasse Shines in Debut

Salahdine Parnasse notably impressed in his U.S. MMA debut by dismantling Kenneth Cross in the first round. The 28-year-old French fighter has been making waves in KSW, attracting new fans who weren’t previously familiar with his talent. This victory makes it five consecutive wins for Parnasse, who also expressed interest in facing Mike Perry, indicating a move up to Welterweight could be in his future.

Despaigne’s Comeback

Robelis Despaigne made a triumphant return to the MMA scene after his release from the UFC in late 2024. He knocked out Junior dos Santos in the first round. He plans to compete in both MMA and Karate Combat and has expressed a desire to face Ngannou, who might be open to considering fights of this nature, despite currently focusing on more significant challenges.

For complete results, coverage, and highlights from the ‘Rousey vs. Carano’ card, click HERE.