Francis Ngannou vs. Philipe Lins Named Co-Main Event On Rousey vs. Carano Card
Francis Ngannou will return to competition on May 16 when he takes on Philipe Lins in an MMA fight.
The bout will serve as the co-main event for Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano. The event will air on Netflix and is promoted by Jake Paul’s MVP Promotions. It will be the first-ever MMA event to stream on Netflix.
BREAKING: Francis Ngannou vs. Philipe Lins added to the Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano card.
The first-ever MMA event on Netflix. Buckle up 🔥 #RouseyCarano
Saturday, May 16
LIVE on Netflix pic.twitter.com/vBHyDktBYQ— Netflix Sports (@netflixsports) March 9, 2026
“While the world was busy talking, I was busy evolving,” Ngannou said in a statement (via ESPN). “Silence shouldn’t be mistaken for absence-it’s the sound of a predator closing the distance. Stepping back into the cage isn’t just a return; it’s a reclamation. My return to MMA demanded a stage that matched the scale of my ambition, and partnering with MVP to bring this event to Netflix ensures the entire world is watching. I am ready for this new chapter, and I cannot wait to entertain my fans again and remind the world exactly who I am and what I am capable of delivering on a highest stage. #TheComeBack”
Ngannou is a former UFC heavyweight champion who recently parted ways with PFL. Ngonnua last fought in MMA in October 2024, knocking out Renan Ferreira. He is 18-3 in his MMA career. He hasn’t lost since July 2018. He is 0-2 in professional boxing, losing to Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua.
Lins is 18-5 in MMA. He last fought at UFC 299 in March 2024, defeating Ion Cuțelaba by unanimous decision.
