Gina Carano has spoken out following her 17-second submission loss to Ronda Rousey, reflecting on both the result and the long road back to competition.
Carano returned to MMA after a 17-year absence, undergoing a major physical transformation that included losing 100 pounds to prepare for the fight.
Despite the effort, the bout ended quickly after Rousey secured an early takedown and locked in an armbar.
Carano wrote:
This was one of the best rides of my life.
I felt locked in fight night. No fear, just focused positive adrenaline.
She admitted the loss was difficult:
My heart is heavy, I wanted to throw, battle, win…
The disappointment of losing like that is very humbling.If I hadn’t tapped she would’ve broken my arm, as it had begun to crackle.
Despite the outcome, Carano remained proud of the effort it took to return after such a long layoff.
After the fight, she shared a conversation with Jon Jones:
Jon said: “You haven’t fought in 17 years? Do you know how big your balls have to be to get back in there after that long? Respect!”
That’s exactly what I needed to hear from the best to ever to do it.
View this post on Instagram
Sloth Jiu-Jitsu: The Ultimate Guide for Calmly Beating Bigger, Younger Opponents
💥 What if slowing down was the fastest way to win?
💭 Tired of Getting Smashed by Younger, Stronger Grapplers?
It’s not your age. It’s your strategy.
If you’re a passionate grappler over 35 who’s sick of getting outpaced, outmuscled, or out-cardio’d by opponents half your age — this 120 page e-book was made for you.
🔓 Unlock the Power of Sloth Jiu-Jitsu:
Build Sustainable Strength—Without Wrecking Your Joints, Energy, or Jiu-Jitsu
Tired of waking up sore and burnt out after lifting? Sloth Strength is a proven blueprint for grapplers over 35 who want to get stronger—without the pain, burnout, or injuries.
Developed from 25 years on the mats, this no-burnout approach is made specifically for BJJ athletes in their 30s, 40s, and beyond.


