Demetrious Johnson backs UFC White House, calls Chandler vs Ruffy ‘bigger’ than Rousey vs Carano

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Demetrious Johnson has pushed back against claims that Netflix’s MMA card is “more stacked” than the UFC White House event.

The streaming platform is set to make a big splash by stepping into the world of MMA with a card filled with high-profile names.

On the women’s side, Ronda Rousey returns for a clash of pioneers against Gina Carano, and the event’s co-headlines feature bouts for Francis Ngannou and Nate Diaz.

Many have said that Jake Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions card is better than anything the UFC has put out in 2026, even compared to the upcoming White House event.

Johnson backs Chandler vs Ruffy over Rousey’s return fight

The reaction to the full UFC White House card announcement was mixed, to say the least. Dana White had built up expectations with promises of an all-time great lineup, while President Donald Trump hinted at “seven or eight” title fights, but many felt the final reveal fell short of that hype.

Demetrious Johnson, though, has stood by the event, arguing it still offers more in terms of quality and skill than what Netflix has planned for May 16.

“Some good fights on there. I’m gonna watch it. It’s free,” Johnson said about the Netflix card on his YouTube channel. “I’m excited to see Nate Diaz and Mike Perry fight.”

“Henry Cejudo said the White House card is not as stacked as the Netflix card… I said, ‘Henry, you’re f—ing high.’ (Mauricio) Ruffy vs Michael Chandler is a way bigger fight, technically, skill-wise, than Gina Carano vs Ronda Rousey. It truly is.

“I would pay money to watch that card (UFC White House),” he continued. “It’s a good card. It’s not what we expected… but those are some solid fights. Then right after that, we have International Fight Week.

“Netflix is trying to put together these fights, but it’s like, what are you gonna do after that?”

Chandler vs Ruffy headlines one of four undercard bouts leading up to two title fights scheduled for June at the White House.

Before Ilia Topuria and Justin Gaethje meet to unify the lightweight titles in the main event – another pivotal matchup in Topuria’s career following his debut win over Max Holloway last year – Alex Pereira will look to add another chapter to his legacy by challenging Ciryl Gane for interim heavyweight gold in pursuit of triple champion status.