UFC President Dana White voiced his strong disapproval after ESPN did not include Gina Carano in their list of the top 10 female stars who have been pivotal in the growth of women`s mixed martial arts.
ESPN, the official broadcast partner of the UFC, released the list in honor of Women`s History Month, recognizing women who have significantly advanced women`s MMA in the 21st century.
The list included notable fighters such as Holly Holm, Megumi Fujii, Miesha Tate, Zhang Weili, Rose Namajunas, Joanna Jędrzejczyk, Valentina Shevchenko, Ronda Rousey, Cris Cyborg, and Amanda Nunes.
While acknowledging these women as some of the greatest fighters, White argued that a key figure was missing from ESPN`s selection.
Dana White Expresses Surprise at Gina Carano`s Omission
Gina Carano, despite a relatively short MMA career from 2006 to 2009, made a significant impact on the sport.
Carano achieved stardom in MMA before transitioning to a successful acting career following a defeat by Cris Cyborg.
Even though she never competed in the UFC, Dana White believes Carano`s contributions were substantial enough to warrant her inclusion on ESPN’s list of women who have positively influenced MMA over the last 25 years.
“Gina Carano not being on the list is INSANE,” Dana White commented on ESPN’s social media post.
Josh Thomson, a former UFC fighter, also echoed this sentiment, questioning Carano`s exclusion.
Gina Carano Responds to the Controversy
Carano expressed her gratitude for Dana White`s support after her absence from ESPN`s list sparked debate.
In a social media post, Carano questioned whether ESPN`s MMA journalists were unaware of WMMA history or intentionally rewriting it by excluding her. She noted Dana White`s public support in her defense.
Carano asserted that her legacy could not be erased and hinted at future revelations. She also thanked fans for their continued support.
Cris Cyborg, the only fighter to have defeated Carano, also supported Carano in the comments.
Cyborg called Carano a “legend” and highlighted the historical importance and commercial success of their fight, stating it changed women’s MMA forever. She expressed hope that their fight would be recognized in the UFC Hall of Fame for its significance.
