MMA & Boxing Roundup: Netflix Event, UFC 329, and Fighter Pay Debates

This report consolidates information from multiple sources covering recent developments in mixed martial arts (MMA) and boxing, including a landmark Netflix event, a major UFC fight announcement, and ongoing discussions regarding fighter compensation.

MVP MMA Event Scheduled on Netflix

A mixed martial arts event promoted by Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) is scheduled to air on Netflix on a Saturday night. The main event is a boxing match between Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano. Carano's last fight was in 2009.

The card also includes:

• Nate Diaz vs. Mike Perry
• Francis Ngannou vs. Philipe Lins
• Other undercard fights

This event marks MVP's first MMA card, following the promotion's previous work in boxing, including events featuring Jake Paul.

Analyst Statements on the Event

"The fight itself does not mean as much as the stance Rousey is taking. It's one of the biggest stars in UFC history taking a strong stand against them."
— Analyst Petesy

"What it does for MMA is create another avenue for work, for money, for relevancy—the entire checklist of options that prizefighters covet."
— Analyst Chuck

Petesy on Diaz: "A win for Diaz would provide another superstar for MVP and Netflix to build with."

Chuck on Ngannou: "A strong Ngannou showing against Lins will serve as a reminder that the lineal heavyweight champion is still at large."

Notable Undercard Fights

• Salahdine Parnasse vs. Kenneth Cross: Parnasse is a two-time KSW champion.
• Junior dos Santos vs. Robelis Despaigne: Junior dos Santos is considered an underdog.

UFC 329: McGregor vs. Holloway Rematch Announced

Dana White announced on Instagram Live that Conor McGregor will fight Max Holloway at UFC 329 on July 11 in Las Vegas. The announcement occurred during the walkout of Francis Ngannou for his fight at MVP's event on Netflix. White stated that the timing was not a coincidence, as he was focused on a UFC event he was hosting that night. He dismissed any suggestion that he was paying attention to MVP's event.

The McGregor vs. Holloway rematch had been rumored for months. Holloway mentioned on a Twitch stream that he kept the fight a secret for approximately six months before the official announcement. White explained that the fight was announced only when it was finalized and confirmed.

Reactions to Announcement Timing

Jake Paul and Ronda Rousey commented on the timing, viewing it as a sign of competition. Ngannou stated he was indifferent.

Fighter Compensation and Contract Negotiations

Justin Gaethje Disputes Fighter Pay Claims

Justin Gaethje stated that his earnings have not increased despite the UFC's new $7.7 billion TV rights deal. These comments contradicted statements made by Hall of Famer Daniel Cormier, who suggested that fighters would receive more money following the discontinuation of pay-per-view.

Gaethje confronted Cormier during Fight Week. Gaethje stated, "You're out here saying everybody's getting paid more and you're f*cking lying! Why would you say that? Why would you talk out of your ass when you have no idea what's happening." Cormier responded by asserting he had knowledge. Gaethje accused Cormier of making fighters look uninformed by claiming they were receiving increased compensation. Cormier denied making such a general statement, claiming he did not say "everybody."

UFC CEO Dana White later addressed the dispute, stating that the promotion offered to update Gaethje's contract, but Gaethje and his team did not respond.

Conor Benn Reported Zuffa Boxing Deal

Zuffa Boxing has reportedly signed British boxer Conor Benn to a one-fight contract worth $15 million. Former UFC bantamweight champion Sean O'Malley expressed skepticism regarding the reported figure. O'Malley stated on his YouTube channel that he found the amount difficult to believe, noting that he was unfamiliar with Conor Benn.

O'Malley indicated that Benn's contract value exceeds his own earnings despite his efforts to build his name within the UFC. O'Malley acknowledged the business aspect, understanding that Zuffa Boxing would invest if they anticipate a return. He also speculated that the high contract value might be influenced by competitive dynamics between Dana White and boxing promoters Oscar De La Hoya and Eddie Hearn.

Grappling Challenge: Mikey Musumeci vs. Dillon Danis

Mikey Musumeci, a grappler and UFC BJJ bantamweight champion, issued a challenge to Dillon Danis for a grappling match. Musumeci holds five IBJJF world championships and recently defended his UFC BJJ title against Shay Montague at UFC BJJ 5 via foot lock submission.

The challenge originated after Danis commented on a social media post by Musumeci featuring a clip of the submission. Danis's comment contained a derogatory remark. Musumeci responded by proposing a grappling match due to Danis's repeated critical comments on his posts. Dillon Danis was formerly considered a top grappler and gained notoriety as a training partner for Conor McGregor. Musumeci has also announced future plans to grapple UFC lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan.

Daniel Cormier Comments on MVP MMA Event

Daniel Cormier, a UFC Hall of Famer and commentator, expressed excitement regarding MVP's upcoming MMA event on Netflix, while noting it does not meet UFC standards. Cormier highlighted the Diaz vs. Perry bout as particularly exciting due to the fighters' ability to engage an audience, despite acknowledging they are not among the top welterweights globally. He stated that the best fighters compete in the UFC.

Cormier views MVP MMA as a potential legitimate alternative in MMA promotion. He mentioned that while no other organization will rival the UFC, MVP offers a platform for fighters to compete and earn a living. He emphasized the benefit of competition within the sport. Despite his interest in the MVP event, Cormier dismissed comparisons between the Rousey-Carano card and the UFC White House card, asserting that the UFC White House card is superior.