Merab Dvalishvili, a former UFC bantamweight contender, recently engaged in training sessions with Gina Carano at Syndicate MMA. During an appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show on April 29, 2026, Dvalishvili discussed Carano’s preparations for an upcoming bout against Ronda Rousey.
Merab Dvalishvili’s Prediction: Gina Carano Dominates Ronda Rousey
Dvalishvili expressed his surprise at Carano’s skill level during their training sessions, which commenced in March. He confidently predicted her victory. “I was astonished by how skilled Gina Carano is. Ronda Rousey’s background is in judo, and I also have judo experience. I believe Gina Carano will win this fight… It has the potential to make UFC fighters look less formidable, and she might even make judo appear less effective, but I’m confident she’ll emerge victorious.”
He attributed Carano’s prowess to her dedication in the gym, noting her physical transformation and refined techniques. Carano, who trains at Xtreme Couture, shared highlights of her training with Dvalishvili, describing the experience as “electric.”
Dvalishvili, who boasts a seven-year background in judo and sambo before transitioning to MMA, observed Carano’s progress. Rousey, an Olympic judo bronze medalist and fourth-degree black belt holder, faces Carano, who holds a professional MMA record of 7-1. Carano’s last fight was a first-round TKO loss to Cris Cyborg in 2009.
Rousey’s MMA record stands at 12-2, with nine submission victories and three knockouts. She retired from the sport after a loss in 2016 and has not competed since. The UFC had considered matching Rousey and Carano during Rousey’s championship reign but never finalized the bout.
Carano’s fighting career spanned from 2006 to 2009, featuring three knockouts, one submission, and three decision wins. She later ventured into acting, notably appearing in “The Mandalorian” before her role was reportedly cut in 2021 following controversial social media posts. Both fighters, now in their 40s (Carano born in 1982, Rousey in 1987), are making a comeback after significant breaks from competition.
This highly anticipated matchup is set to headline Most Valuable Promotions’ inaugural MMA event on May 16, 2026, at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California. The event will be streamed live globally on Netflix, marking the platform’s entry into live MMA broadcasting. The undercard will feature other notable bouts, including Nate Diaz vs. Mike Perry and Francis Ngannou vs. Philipe Lins.
Dvalishvili is currently focused on securing a bantamweight title rematch with Petr Yan, following his loss in December 2025. His strong endorsement of Carano lends significant credibility to her chances. Carano and Rousey will face off in the octagon in front of an anticipated crowd of 18,300 fans. Spectators are eager to witness Rousey’s renowned grappling prowess clash with Carano’s Muay Thai striking base. Dvalishvili’s insights have undoubtedly amplified the pre-fight buzz.