In the annals of mixed martial arts, pivotal moments often hinge on timing and decisions made under pressure. For Gina Carano, the 145-pound pioneer of women’s MMA, one such moment came in 2009 when she faced off against Cris “Cyborg” Justino. Yet, it was a conversation with UFC CEO Dana White that could have changed the course of history for women in the sport.
Recently, Carano revealed on the PBD Podcast that just before her bout with Cyborg, White and Lorenzo Fertitta expressed keen interest in making her the UFC’s first female fighter. However, Carano’s contractual obligations to Strikeforce prevented her from accepting the offer at the time, showcasing her loyalty to her existing commitments.
Fast forward two years, and UFC absorbed Strikeforce, acquiring Carano’s contract in the process. With the UFC’s burgeoning interest in women’s MMA, discussions arose about Carano’s potential return, especially after the launch of the Bantamweight division led by Ronda Rousey.
However, White’s public pressure and Carano’s demanding schedule, which included her acting career and the need for a significant weight cut, posed significant challenges. Despite White’s outspoken support, Carano ultimately did not return to the octagon, leaving fans to speculate on what could have been.
The missed opportunity to bring Carano into the UFC fold highlights the delicate balance between loyalty, timing, and external pressures in the world of MMA. While Carano’s potential impact on the sport’s evolution remains a subject of debate, her legacy as a pioneer in women’s MMA endures.
As the UFC continues to thrive and women’s divisions gain prominence, Carano’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the pivotal moments that shape the sport’s history. Though her time in the spotlight may have been fleeting, her contributions to the growth and recognition of women’s MMA remain indelible.
