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A Detailed Guide To MMA: From A Rejected Sport To The Most Valuable

MMA, or mixed martial arts, is the world’s fastest-growing martial art. It is a full-contact combat that involves grappling, striking, and ground fighting techniques. The sport combines the best techniques from boxing, wrestling, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, and kickboxing into one competition. The history of MMA stretches back to 648 BC, while the sport’s modern form gained traction in the 20th century, influenced by Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and other martial arts. MMA Fighters must excel in striking with their hands and feet, grappling on the ground, and everything in between to succeed in the octagon. 

History of MMA 

This combat sport traces back to ancient Greece, where warriors competed in a brutal contest called pankration. These ancient fighters used almost every fighting technique known to humans, creating spectacular battles that captivated entire civilizations. The sport was so popular that it became a cornerstone of the Ancient Olympic Games in 648 BC, drawing massive crowds. 

Pankration continued as a brutal combat sport for centuries until the Roman emperor Theodosius I banned the Ancient Olympics in 393 CE, ending Pankration. The next appearance of a combat sport that combined multiple fighting techniques happened in the 20th century. The MMA has evolved into a global phenomenon that attracts millions of fans worldwide. 

Fighters like Conor McGregor and Ronda Rousey have become household names, while organizations like the UFC generate billions in revenue. MMA history is full of criticism and bans, but now the sport fills massive arenas and breaks television viewership records regularly. The history of MMA represents the ultimate test of human combat skills and athletic determination.

How Did MMA Start?

Mixed Martial Arts was not a term until 1993. It all started in the 1800s when Savate (French Boxing) became a popular sport, and French Savate fighters decided to put their skills to the test against fighters of other combat styles. The first fight took place in 1852 between English bare-knuckle boxers and French savateurs, which the latter won using their kicks. Since then, there have been several battles between fighters from different combat backgrounds. Here are a few important events and personalities that highly influenced the concept of hybrid martial arts, now known as MMA:

Catch Wrestling: The Foundation of Modern Fighting

Late 1800s carnival wrestlers created “catch as catch can”, a style mixing techniques from different wrestling traditions. The rule was simple: use any move to win. This became the blueprint for modern MMA, providing the ground fighting techniques, joint locks, and submission holds we see today.

Bartitsu: Europe’s First Mixed Martial Art

In 1898, Edward William Barton-Wright created Bartitsu after studying boxing, wrestling, savate, and Japanese martial arts. He called it “self-defense in all its forms” – combining the best of each fighting style. Though it faded quickly, Sherlock Holmes made it famous by using “baritsu” to defeat Professor Moriarty.

Bruce Lee: The Father of Modern MMA 

Bruce Lee revolutionized martial arts thinking in the 1960s to 70s with Jeet Kune Do. His core belief that no single fighting style is perfect. Take what works, discard what doesn’t, and adapt to any opponent. His movies spread this mixed martial arts philosophy to the Western world, earning him the title “father of modern MMA.”

Muhammad Ali vs. Inoki: The Fight That Changed Everything

The bizarre 1976 boxing vs. wrestling match between Muhammad Ali and Antonio Inoki sparked a revolution in the history of MMA. This hybrid bout showed the world that different fighting styles could clash in one ring, directly inspiring the creation of modern mixed martial arts competitions.

The Global Spread of Mixed Martial Arts

MMA combines multiple fighting disciplines. It emerged from Brazilian Vale Tudo, Hong Kong rooftop fights, and Japanese wrestling.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Origins (1925)

Brothers Carlos and Hélio Gracie opened a jiu-jitsu school in Rio. They challenged all fighters through newspaper ads. Their slogan: “If you want a broken arm or rib, contact Carlos Gracie.” Most challengers lost to BJJ techniques. The Gracies brought their art to America in the 1990s.

Hong Kong Rooftop Fights (1960s)

High crime rates led citizens to learn martial arts for self-defense. Nearly 400 martial arts schools opened by the 1960s. Competition created gangs that organized rooftop fights. Bruce Lee emerged from these fights. He created Jeet Kune Do and popularized mixed martial arts globally.

Shooto: First MMA Promotion (1985)

Japanese wrestler Satoru Sayama created Shooto for realistic competition. He blended kickboxing, muay thai, judo, and sambo. Shooto became the first official MMA promotion in 1989. It founded modern competition in the history of MMA. 

These three origins created today’s MMA. Brazilian ground fighting, Asian striking, and Japanese organization built the foundation for global MMA.

Birth of Modern MMA with UFC 

The birth of modern MMA is linked to the creation of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) in 1993. UFC is often seen as the catalyst for the sport’s growth and recognition. The initial matches in MMA history were held inside a caged structure with fighters from different disciplines fighting each other. The following rules and regulations were put in place in the early UFC days:

  • No-holds-barred, anything happens.
  • Only biting, eye pokes, and groin strikes were forbidden. 
  • The match ends if a fighter submits or his corner throws a towel.

Royce Gracie dominated UFC, scoring 11 first-round finishes from 1993 to 1995. Several other prominent names joined UFC, but the sport was so violent and bloody that no media house accepted coverage. Following this setback, new MMA rules were devised between 1996 and 2000 to make it a sport that television viewers can watch. The rules were as follows: 

  • Adding a 10 point scoring system similar to boxing.
  • Appointing MMA judges to score matches.
  • Introduction of weight classes.
  • Specific rounds and time limits.

The Evolution of MMA 

UFC devised a new rulebook for MMA under the fresh leadership, ensuring their professional fighters’ safety and aiming for TV opportunities. The New Jersey State Athletic Control Board presented a set of rules in 2001, which later became the Unified Rules of Mixed Martial Arts, followed by every MMA promotion. MMA gained immense popularity in no time with the new regulations and the introduction of protective gear. Several new fighters joined the top promotions of the time, including: 

  • M-1 Global
  • Pancrase
  • Elite Xtreme Combat
  • World Fighting Alliance (WFA) 
  • World Extreme Cagefighting (WEC)
  • Pride Fighting Championships
  • Cage Rage
  • Shooto

In 2006, UFC capitalized on the growing popularity of MMA and bought WFA and WEC. Pride Fighting Championships also integrated with UFC in 2007. The three promotions were soon disbanded, and UFC acquired their top fighters. This move further strengthened UFC’s top position in the MMA world. The promotion now had most top-ranked fighters, and Dana White stood firm as the face of mixed martial arts worldwide.

MMA Techniques 

MMA combines four core fighting disciplines. Striking techniques include boxing punches, Muay Thai kicks, knees, and elbows. Wrestling techniques focus on takedowns, sprawls, and ground control. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu uses submissions like chokes, joint locks, and guard positions. Grappling involves clinch work, throws, and ground transitions.

Modern MMA fighters must master all ranges. They use jabs and crosses for distance striking. Kicks target legs, body, and head. Takedowns like double-legs and single-legs bring fights to the ground. Fighters use guard passes, sweeps, and submission attempts on the mat. The key is smoothly transitioning between striking, wrestling, and submissions during a fight. 

MMA Rules and Regulations 

Classic MMA fights were too brutal and bloody to be aired on television. This situation demanded the authorities devise laws that protect fighters from life-threatening injuries and make MMA a safer sport. After several amendments over the years, the rules of modern MMA are as follows:

Weight Classes in MAA

Differences in weights became a significant factor in MMA with the introduction of submission and take-down techniques. The Unified Rules of Martial Arts define ten different weight classes in professional MMA:

  • Strawweight (Uptil 115lb)
  • Flyweight (up to 125 lb) 
  • Bantamweight (up to 135 lb)
  • Featherweight (up to 145 lb) 
  • Lightweight (up to 155 lb)
  • Welterweight (up to 170 lb) 
  • Middleweight (up to 185 lb) 
  • Light heavyweight (up to 205 lb) 
  • Heavyweight (up to 265 lb) 
  • Super heavyweight (no upper weight limit)  

Major MMA promotions, including the UFC, imply strict laws for fighters to train specifically and maintain their weight. According to UFC’s weight regulations, fighters are required to undergo pre-fight weigh-ins typically a day before the fight. Failing to hit the weight limit can result in penalties:

  • The fighter may be fined a percentage of his fight fee.
  • The fight proceeds at a ‘catchweight,’ which is a certain weight outside the official limits that both fighters agree upon. 
  • A champion will forfeit the title if he wins a bout under catchweight rules. 
  • The fight may be canceled if the weight difference is too much.
  • A champion can be stripped of his/her title in case of repetitive offenses.

Time Limits and Number of Rounds

Early MMA competitions had no time limits and fighters would reach the end of their strength in pursuit of victory. But a set number of rounds and time limits were proposed with the introduction of live televised matches and to ensure fighter’s safety.

  • Professional MMA fights consist of three 5-minute rounds. 
  • Championship fights and main events feature five 5-minute rounds.

MMA Match Regulations and Winning Conditions 

Professional MMA fights can end in several different ways. Here’s how fighters can win according to official MMA rules:

Knockout (KO)

A knockout happens when a fighter can’t continue after being hit with legal strikes. The fighter is either unconscious or too hurt to keep fighting. Ground and pound attacks and submission attempts that cause knockouts are completely legal in MMA.

Submission Victory

A fighter wins by submission when their opponent gives up while trapped in a hold. There are three ways to submit:

  • Physical tap: Tapping the opponent’s body or the mat with your hand
  • Verbal tap: Saying “I quit” when your hands are trapped
  • Technical submission: The referee stops the fight if a fighter goes unconscious, breaks a bone, or is in danger

Technical Knockout TKO

A TKO is one of the most common ways MMA fights end. It happens in two main ways:

Referee Stoppage TKO

The referee stops the fight when:

  • A fighter takes too many hits and can’t defend themselves
  • A fighter is getting knocked out from strikes
  • A fighter is too tired to continue safely
  • A fighter has a bad cut or broken bone (the doctor may request this stoppage)

Corner Stoppage TKO

A fighter’s coaches can stop the fight by throwing a towel into the octagon. They do this to protect their fighter from serious injury when they’re losing badly.

Judge’s Decision

If no one gets knocked out or submits, three judges decide who wins. Each round is scored out of 10 points.

Types of Decisions

  • Unanimous Decision: All three judges pick the same winner
  • Split Decision: Two judges pick one fighter, one judge picks the other
  • Majority Decision: Two judges pick one fighter, one judge calls it a tie
  • Draw: All judges score the fight as a tie (very rare)

How Judges Score Fights

Judges look at three main things each round:

  • Effective striking: Power, accuracy, and damage from punches and kicks
  • Grappling control: Takedowns, ground control, and submission attempts
  • Octagon control: Moving forward, controlling the center, and being aggressive

Technical Decision

This happens when a fight can’t finish due to an accidental foul. The fight must go at least 2 rounds (in a 3-round fight) or 3 rounds (in a 5-round fight) to count. Judges then score the completed rounds normally.

Forfeit

A fighter or their team can quit before the fight starts due to injury or other problems. Their opponent automatically wins.

No Contest

Sometimes fights are ruled “no contest,” meaning nobody wins:

  • Both fighters keep breaking the rules
  • A fighter gets hurt from an accidental illegal move
  • A fighter fails their drug test after winning

What MMA Gear and Apparel Do You Need? 

Rules were not the only thing added to make MMA a safer sport. Several essential gear and apparel items have been gradually added to the sport for safer fights and injury prevention. Here are the essential MMA equipment every professional and beginner MMA fighter must have in their bag:

MMA Gloves

Although boxing was the first to introduce padded gloves, almost every combat sport has adopted this great invention. Modern MMA regulations require fighters to wear 4oz to 6oz gloves when they compete in the octagon. MMA gloves differ from boxing gloves in design, size, and padding, while serving the same purpose: protecting the fighter’s hands. MMA gloves feature exposed fingers for ease when performing grappling and submission techniques.

Mouthguards

Mouthguards are a major part of every combat sport for injury protection in the teeth, gums, jaw, and head. Every MMA promotion has mandatory regulations for the use of Mouthguards. UFC has strictly implemented some rules. The first is that fighters must use closed-cell rubber mouthguards that are approved by the promotion. The second is that MMA mouthguards must be worn when taking part in any contact activity. 

MMA Shorts

The Unified Rules of Martial Arts mandate the use of fighting shorts during MMA matches. These shorts must not have zippers, pockets, or complex or projecting objects that can cause injury. MMA shorts are made from strong and flexible materials that ensure durability and unrestricted movement during competitions. 

Other Essential MMA Gear 

While these are the only equipment ruled essential by the Unified rules and most MMA promotions, there are several other gear and apparel items that an MMA fighter should have:

  • Hand wraps: A practical choice, most fighters prefer wrapping their hands to allow extra protection and mobility to the hand and wrist.
  • Groin guards: Every fighter should wear a groin guard during training and fights to ensure protection against accidental low blows.
  • Shin guards: While not allowed in MMA fights, they play a significant role in training, providing necessary protection during intense sparring sessions.
  • Rash guards: They can’t be worn during professional fights, but they are essential to training in every major combat sport. 

The Fighting Area

The International Federation of Mixed Martial Arts defines clear fighting area dimensions and protocols that every MMA promotion must follow:

  • The Fight area must be circular or have at least six sides.
  • Each side should be equal, and the fight area must be no smaller than 20×20 feet and no larger than 32×32 feet in diameter. 
  • Fight area should have atleast 40mm layer of high-density foam padding that extends to the edges of the platform, and should be padded in a manner approved by the commission.
  • The fence covering the fight area should be strong enough to hold a fighter’s weight, disallowing competitors to break through or fall out.
  • The metal part of the fence should be covered with an approved padding technique that protects the fighters from cuts and scratches.
  • The fenced area must have two gates, preferably on opposite sides, that open outwards. 
  • There must be no obstructions within the competition area.

Demographics of MMA

Now that you’re aware of the history, dimensions, and rules of MMA, let’s discuss what the sport has achieved during its short modern history:

Key Takeaway: The Journey of Mixed Martial Arts

The history of MMA shows an incredible transformation from underground “human cockfighting” to mainstream success. The UFC is now the most valuable MMA promotion in 2024. Early pioneers like Royce Gracie proved Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu’s effectiveness against larger opponents. Ken Shamrock and Tito Ortiz helped establish the sport’s foundation. 

The golden era brought legendary fighters who changed everything. George St-Pierre and Randy Couture pioneered the well-rounded approach by mixing wrestling with striking. Anderson Silva showcased precision while Chuck Liddell delivered devastating knockouts. Today’s stars like Conor McGregor, Israel Adesanya, and Khabib Nurmagomedov continue this evolution. They all study Jon “Bones” Jones, widely considered among the greatest MMA fighters of all time. The MMA history timeline reveals how the sport evolved from testing individual martial arts to creating complete warriors. What started as a controversial spectacle became one of the world’s most respected combat sports.