Introduction of Mixed Martial Arts

Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is a combat sport that involves a wide variety of fighting techniques of martial arts. The competitors can use the technique of grappling and striking on the ground as well as while standing.

With the foundation of the Ultimate Fighting Championship, in 1993, Modern Mixed Martial arts competition emerged and became popular. The competitors were set against each other with minimum safety concern in the initial days. In the next few years, new rules were adopted by MMA promoters that aimed at the competitor’s safety. This sport has become more popular with these changes and with pay per view. It has become a competitor for professional wrestling and boxing.

The techniques that are used in MMA competition are generally categorised into two:

• Striking
• Grappling

Striking techniques include knees, punches and kicks and grappling techniques include pinning holds, sweeps, clinch holds, throws, submission holds and takedowns. The rules of mixed martial arts may differ between the promotions. There is a universal ban on some techniques such as eye-gouging, small joint manipulation, biting, fish-hooking and strikes on the groin. The legality of some techniques such as headbutts, spinal locks and elbow strikes may vary.

In today’s world, the mixed martial artists must have a variety of skills to counter their opponent’s strength. To improve aspects of the game, many traditional disciplines remain popular as a way for a fighter.

 

Sunday, December 02, 2007
By Sherdog.com Staff
Regulated mixed martial arts has experienced its first casualty. Sam asquez, who was stopped by Vince Libar