Daniel Cormier, Ben Askren not impressed with MVP 'Rousey vs. Carano'

Most Valuable Promotions' debut card, "Rousey vs. Carano," drew mixed reactions from the MMA community despite some prominent endorsements. While Jon Jones praised the event's competitive level, veteran fighters Daniel Cormier and Ben Askren expressed significant reservations about the matchmaking and overall quality of competition.

Askren, a former champion in Bellator MMA and ONE Championship, was particularly critical of the card's structure. Speaking on a podcast with Cormier, he identified a glaring weakness: nearly every fight lacked competitive balance. "Incredibly one-sided is the biggest thing that comes to mind," Askren explained. "You know, there wasn't a singular fight that was moderately competitive on the card." While Askren acknowledged the entertainment value of highlight-reel finishes and knockout sequences, he emphasized that matchmakers should prioritize back-and-forth, competitive bouts that test fighter depth and adaptability.

Cormier, the former UFC champion and current analyst, echoed similar concerns about the card's composition. The disparity in matchups raises questions about MVP's long-term strategy as it establishes itself as a competitor to the UFC. Building a promotion requires not just star power and spectacular finishes, but sustainable competitive ecosystems that develop fighter talent and sustain fan investment. MVP's approach suggests a focus on celebrity draws and dominant performances, which may succeed initially but could limit the card's depth and replay value as the promotion matures.