Most Valuable Promotions is continuing to build what could become one of the most ambitious fight cards in MMA history—this time adding not just elite matchups, but powerful voices from the fighters themselves.
The promotion, founded by Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian, has officially announced eight additional bouts for its blockbuster MMA event scheduled for Saturday, May 16, 2026, at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles. The event will stream live globally on Netflix at no additional cost to its more than 325 million subscribers.
New Matchups Bring Global Flavor
Among the newly announced bouts, France’s Salahdine Parnasse will face American standout Kenneth Cross in a lightweight clash that already carries international stakes.
Parnasse, eager to introduce himself to a wider audience, made his intentions clear:
“I have nothing to prove to those who know me… but everything to prove to those who don’t know me yet. I’ve built my name in Europe, and now I have the opportunity to represent France on a global stage… I’m ready to show a new audience what I’m capable of.”
Cross, meanwhile, is unfazed by the hype surrounding his opponent:
“I’m blessed with this opportunity, making history on Netflix. Everyone’s afraid of this guy, but honestly, this is the least worried I’ve ever been for a fight. USA vs France… let’s go.”
Heavyweight Power and High Stakes
In the heavyweight division, former UFC champion Junior dos Santos returns to action against explosive Cuban striker Robelis Despaigne.
Dos Santos emphasized his passion for competition:
“I’m so excited to be fighting again. Fighting is my greatest motivation, the type of challenge that feeds my soul… I can’t wait for it. Let’s go.”
Despaigne, competing on one of the biggest stages of his career, added:
“Being a part of this legendary card is a phenomenal honor… I will show everyone tuning in on Netflix exactly why I’m here.”
Elite Flyweights and Welterweight Showdowns
The flyweight division will feature undefeated Muhammad Mokaev taking on former ONE Championship king Adriano Moraes.
Mokaev said:
“I am excited to take part in the historic Netflix card, against a tough veteran opponent… I can’t wait to put on a great performance.”
Moraes added a deeply personal perspective:
“I didn’t come from an easy life, but I chose to turn every struggle into strength… hard work always pays off.”
At welterweight, Lorenz Larkin faces former Bellator champion Jason Jackson in what could be one of the most competitive fights on the card.
Larkin acknowledged the magnitude of the matchup:
“This is probably the most competitive match up of my whole career, so yeah I’m excited.”
Jackson plans to make a statement:
“Fans can expect an exciting fight, and I plan on stealing the show with a knockout performance.”
Rising Talent and Personal Journeys
The undercard continues to showcase rising prospects and compelling personal stories.
Namo Fazil, who carries the pride of his heritage into the cage, said:
“I do not fight only for myself. I fight for my people, my roots… this is for every Kurdish child who needs to believe.”
His opponent Jake Babian added:
“MVP outdid themselves on this card… gonna leave it all out there!”
Featherweight competitors David Mgoyan and Albert Morales also shared their mindset heading into the bout.
Mgoyan promised:
“I’m very grateful to MVP for giving me this opportunity… I promise not to disappoint.”
Morales, fighting in his home region, stated:
“Time to put on for my city… I’m ready to set off the card with some violence.”
Women’s Bout and Veteran Presence
At a 130-pound catchweight, Aline Pereira meets Jade Masson-Wong in a striking-heavy matchup.
Pereira expects fireworks:
“I believe it’s going to be a very aggressive fight… I promise to put on an excellent performance.”
Masson-Wong delivered one of the most intense quotes of the announcement:
“On fight night, I’m going to war… My favorite color is red blood.”
Veteran Chris Avila, who returns to MMA competition, kept his message simple:
“Time for a real fight and I’m coming to put on.”
A Blockbuster Headlined by Icons
The newly announced fights bolster a stacked lineup headlined by Nate Diaz vs. Mike Perry and Francis Ngannou vs. Philippe Lins.
The event will culminate in a historic grand finale between Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano.
With global talent, compelling personal stories, and fighters eager to make statements on the sport’s biggest stage, MVP’s first MMA event is shaping up to be a defining moment in combat sports—one where the action inside the cage will be matched by the voices behind it.
