Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano will undergo extensive medical and neurological testing ahead of their May 16 MMA comeback fight at Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California. The California State Athletic Commission is requiring additional testing beyond standard requirements due to Rousey's concussion history and both fighters' extended layoffs from competition.

Rousey, 39, hasn't fought since 2016 and revealed during a 2024 Instagram Live that she has a long history of concussions dating back to her judo career, where she won an Olympic bronze medal in 2008. She admitted hiding this information from the UFC and regulators previously. Carano, who turns 44 on fight night, last competed in 2009. The commission will conduct neurological and concussion battery testing on Rousey, while both fighters must complete comprehensive medical evaluations including MRI, MRA, EKG, and neurocognitive testing.

CSAC executive director Andy Foster emphasized that while the commission has rejected numerous fights over the years, this matchup will proceed as long as both fighters pass their medicals. The additional testing follows Association of Ringside Physicians recommendations for fighters over 40, addressing concerns about the athletes' ages and long periods of inactivity. This fight represents a significant moment for women's MMA, bringing together two of the sport's original trailblazers.