A Bold Entry into the MMA Arena

Most Valuable Promotions (MVP), the venture co-founded by Jake Paul, has officially signaled its intent to become a permanent fixture in the world of mixed martial arts. Following a blockbuster debut on Netflix, which saw the Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano card shatter U.S. viewership records, the promotion is looking to capitalize on this momentum to build a sustainable business model.

Nakisa Bidarian, co-founder of MVP, confirmed during a recent appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show that the organization is fully committed to the MMA space. While formal long-term agreements with Netflix are still being explored, the goal is to transform this successful pilot into a regular series of premium events.


Strategic Vision and Potential Partnerships

Bidarian emphasized that while the UFC remains the clear industry leader, there is a significant opening for a strong second player. Unlike the saturated boxing market, where numerous promoters compete for attention, the MMA landscape is currently dominated by one major entity.

«There is a clear opportunity to create an alternative avenue for fighters that truly represents the best of the sport and is fighters first. Our hope is that's with our partners at Netflix,» Bidarian stated.

The promoter noted that while Netflix is the preferred partner for a potential schedule of 12 events per year, MVP remains open to discussions with other major platforms such as Amazon, Fox, and ESPN to ensure they can reach a broad audience consistently.


Future Talent and The Rematch Question

As MVP looks to refine its future programming, the organization is weighing its options regarding key talent:

  • Ronda Rousey: Despite calls for further participation, Bidarian reiterated that Rousey maintains her stance that the return was a one-time engagement.
  • Gina Carano: There is strong interest in seeing Carano continue, with the promotion suggesting she deserves another appearance now that she has regained her form as a fighter.
  • Nate Diaz vs. Mike Perry: Given the abrupt finish to their recent bout, MVP is open to facilitating a rematch, viewing it as a headline-worthy event.

Addressing Industry Criticism

The event did not go without detractors, including TKO executive Mark Shapiro, who characterized the Rousey-Carano fight as a «stunt.» Bidarian dismissed these criticisms as hypocritical, arguing that the industry often overlooks the necessity of rewarding fighters fairly and prioritizing their value over rigid corporate narratives.

«We aren't in competition with the UFC,» Bidarian concluded, noting that the goal is not to displace the established leader but to demonstrate that a high-quality, athlete-focused alternative can thrive. The burden now lies on MVP to prove that their inaugural success can be replicated consistently on a global stage.