Netflix Steps Into the Cage for First MMA Production With Rousey-Carano Showdown at Intuit Dome – Sports Video Group

When MMA icons Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano meet inside the Hexagon at Intuit Dome this weekend, it will mark the latest chapter in Netflix’s live-sports-rights production journey. The streamer’s first MMA production will build on the foundation laid by its boxing broadcasts – including last year’s Taylor vs. Serrano event at Madison Square Garden —and lean on a familiar mobile-unit setup, an expanded camera complement, and Intuit Dome’s state-of-the art technology to bring that signature Netflix cinematic sensibility to the sport.

“We are incredibly fortunate to bring another high-energy sport to our subscribers,” says Jonathan Mussman, VP, production and post, nonfiction and live, Netflix. “The team has been working tirelessly to push the boundaries of MMA, ensuring the broadcast feels fresh and immersive for our global audience.”

Familiar Partners: Netflix Welcomes EverWonder, NEP Back to the Party

Netflix is once again teaming with EverWonder Studios on the production side, with EverWonder managing event production and capture of the event while MVP (Most Valuable Promotions) handles promotional efforts. The partnership leverages EverWonder’s track record in combat sports.

“With several boxing events now under our belt, we are leveraging those insights to pivot into MMA,” Mussman says. “We recognize that MMA is a distinct discipline that requires specialized skill sets for both our host desk and ringside talent. To support this transition, we have integrated the Hexagon and reconfigured the arena seating within the dome to accommodate the cage’s unique footprint.”

In the Intuit Dome compound, NEP’s Supershooter 24 mobile unit (A, B, and C units) — the same truck that supported Netflix’s Taylor vs. Serrano broadcast — serves as the anchor of the production.

“It’s great to be back in a mobile unit we know so well,” Mussman says. “[Supershooter 24] was instrumental to our success with the Taylor vs. Serrano broadcast in NYC last year.”

On the contribution side, Netflix is using a triple-path transmission strategy anchored by Tata, Lumen, and PSSI. “We’ve found that primary fiber backed by satellite provides the optimal balance of high-fidelity quality and mission-critical resiliency,” says Mussman.

Covering the Hexagon: From Drones in the Air to Mini Cams on the Mat

The complement of nearly 20 cameras – which includes five 3x super-slo-mo systems – is composed primarily of Sony HDC-4300’s and HDC-3500 broadcast cameras, as well as three Sony PTZs. A Sony HDC-F5500 Super 35-mm camera and ILME-FX6 full-frame cinema camera are also on hand to provide shallow depth-of-field looks.

NEP Specialty Capture has provided miniature Antelope Nucleus Pico cameras, which are mounted within the cage padding for integrated mat coverage.

“We are particularly excited about our integrated Hexagon mat coverage,” says Mussman. “They provide a perspective that places the viewer directly at the center of the action, delivering a sense of proximity that traditional camera plots can’t match.”

Meanwhile DJI Mavic and Mini drones will operate both indoors and outdoors, respectively.

Camera support includes a truss-mounted HALO jib with roughly 80 feet of reach and a DJI gimbal rig.

“We are elevating our broadcast standards by integrating specialty cameras designed for high-fidelity live capture and cinematic slow-motion replays,” Mussman says. “To maximize the impact of this state-of-the-art venue, we are also deploying indoor and outdoor drones for sweeping transitions, along with AR graphics to create a more immersive, premium viewing experience.”

Audio also continues to be a central focus for the production team, as Netflix and Everwonder look to find the right balance of clear sound from inside the Hexagon, throughout the arena, and from its announcers.

“Delivering pristine audio is a cornerstone of our live strategy,” Mussman says. “We are focused on the delicate balance of capturing the raw energy of a live crowd while maintaining absolute clarity for our commentary team. By optimizing everything from mic selection and audio chains to precise speaker placement, we are evolving our production standards to ensure Netflix becomes the premier destination for world-class, immersive audio.”

A Temple of Technology: Leveraging the Intuit Dome

Few venues in the world can boast the level of video-technology firepower that Intuit Dome offers and Netflix is taking full advantage to create a one-of-a-kind canvas for Saturday’s live stream. Netflix first dealt with the venue during the debut of WWE Monday Night Raw on Netflix in January. The event took place on January 6, 2025, from the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, and featured performers from the Raw and SmackDown brands.

“Following our successful collaboration with WWE last year, we are thrilled to return to the Intuit Dome for our inaugural MMA production,” Mussman says. “We plan to fully leverage the venue’s world-class infrastructure by integrating our broadcast with their superior audio systems, dynamic seat-integrated lighting, and PixMob technology.”

Furthermore, Netflix and EverWonder have designed custom, high-impact graphics specifically optimized for the venue’s massive, double-sided Halo Board to create a truly immersive environment.

A Triple Header: More Than Just the Main Event

While the Rousey-Carano matchup is dominating the headlines, Netflix’s live stream will actually feature a new Triple Header format rather than the traditional main and co-main structure – a first for Netflix’s combat sports coverage. The blockbuster fight card also features Nate Diaz vs. Mike Perry and the return of heavyweight knockout artist Francis Ngannou, making this one of the most anticipated combat sports events of the year. 

“To sustain this momentum, we’ve curated a robust lineup of explosive athletes,” Mussman says. “Our Executive Producers are managing a highly dynamic rundown designed for maximum agility — ensuring we can seamlessly pivot between fighter packages, real-time stats, and expert desk analysis to account for the unpredictable nature of live fights.”

Additionally, Fight week activities at Venice Beach and the Intuit Dome — including open workouts, press conferences, and weigh-ins — are being led by MVP in partnership with ConCom, with Netflix producing a dedicated social feed for its platforms. Pre-produced packages focused on the fighters’ personal journeys will also run as part of Saturday’s live broadcast.  

MMA and Beyond: Building the Live Sports Slate

For Mussman, the production represents another step in Netflix’s broader live sports ambitions, which have continued to grow alongside its portfolio of rights.

“Our sports strategy is continually evolving as we explore new opportunities to offer our members,” he says. “As a result, we must move fast, and our unique Netflix culture helps foster the ideal work environment to support. I continue to be incredibly proud of our exceptional team, who continually lean in to help ensure best-in-class coverage and events.”

Key contributors to the production include, on the production company side: Ian Orefice, Mike Antinoro, and Brian Turner, executive producers, EverWonder; Jen Kern, executive in charge of production, EverWonder; and Matthew Kwok, technical operations, Kwokman. On the Netflix production side, in addition to Mussman, Vicki Prieto, director, production management, live; Danny Lopez, manager, production management, live sports; and Jared Thompson, director, postproduction. On the Netflix creative side: Brandon Riegg, VP, nonfiction series and sports; Gabe Spitzer, VP, live sports; and Kate Jackson, director, live sports.