What is MMA?

MMA – Mixed Martial Arts: From The Beginning

Mixed martial arts (MMA) is the brutal combat sport in which contestants battle each other without the limitations of conventional boxing. The sport pits contenders against each other who bring different fighting styles and disciplines into the ring (called the Octagon). Jiu-Jitsu masters fight bare-fisted brawlers and Thai kickboxers battle wrestlers. Each style has its inherent strengths and weaknesses. Mixed martial arts brings the most competent fighters in the world together to compete in a vicious tournament. The top spots are predictably awarded to those who show the greatest fighting skills, ferocity and tolerance for pain.

A Brief History Of MMA

MMA became popular in the United States when the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) was founded in 1993. However, its modern historical roots can be traced back through several decades. The respected Gracie family was holding tournaments in Brazil during the 1920’s while MMA gained a foothold in Japan during the 1970’s. But, it was Royce Gracie who injected MMA into the mainstream.

Gracie was a master of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, a style that baffled other fighters. In a display of his fighting prowess, he dominated 3 opponents in 5 minutes during the first UFC tournament in 1993. For several years, MMA developed an enormous underground following. Each year, it found new fans and participants. Finally, in 2006, UFC 66 was organized and two titans of the sport, Chuck Liddell and Tito Ortiz, met for a rematch. The event was broadcast on pay-per-view and sales exceeded all expectations. MMA had forced its way into popular culture.

Inevitable Progression

Thrust into the spotlight, MMA came under close scrutiny. Its lawlessness and brutality attracted the ire of politicians. Gradually, under pressure, the UFC drafted a number of rules to make the sport more palatable. Weight classes were divided, the duration of rounds was limited (to 5 minutes) and an assortment of strikes (i.e. headbutts) were banned. Though many fans were angered by these changes, the new rules paved the way for MMA to be sanctioned by a number of states.

Today, mixed martial arts enjoys a momentum that attracts fans of all ages. While still brutal in nature, its popularity transcends age, ethnicity and gender, becoming one of the most popular sports of all time.