Mixed Martial Arts

There’s too much to go into to do a true tribute to mixed martial arts, or at least the tribute it deserves.  No, it’s not just two guys using whatever fighting styles they like to beat the living crap out of their opponent.  It’s a true art that can be traced back to the ancient Olympic games in the sport of pankration.

Greek mythology states that pankration (derived from pan-, “all” and krátos, “power”) was invented by Heracles and Theseus as a result of their use of boxing and wrestling combinations to defeat their unique opponents, including the Minotaur and Nemean lion.  The academic view is that the sport was invented in the seventh century B.C., as an answer to the need for expression in violent sport and trial.  Artistic evidence suggests that forms of pankration were being practiced as early as the second millennium B.C., and that it evolved into the “mixed martial arts” form we’re familiar with today much later.  Knockouts were common, as were striking and submission, grappling, joint locks, and takedowns.  The only steadfast rules were no biting or eye gouging, and although the bouts were refereed, it wasn’t unusual for death for occur.

The modern re-birth of mixed martial arts is rooted into subculture that started in Brazil and Japan almost simultaneously.  The first officially sanctioned mixed martial arts event was held in 1997 in Iowa, and Canada decriminalized mixed martial arts in June, 2013.  Prominence in mainstream media was accomplished in 2006.

Mixed martial arts promotions typically require that male fighters wear shorts in addition to being bare-chested, thus precluding the use of extra clothing or appliances to inhibit or assist submission holds.  Male fighters are required by most athletic commissions to wear groin protectors underneath their trunks and mouth guards.  The need for flexibility in the legs combined with durability prompted the creation of various fighting shorts brands, which then spawned a range of mixed martial arts clothing and casual wear available to the public.

While mixed martial arts may not be the arena for everyone, it is similar to rugby in that anyone is qualified to participate as there are so many disciplines to work within.  All body types and physiques have some sort of advantage, so if you want a good workout, MMA may be the way to go.  If you’re convinced you’d rather just watch, get your camera ready for the weigh-ins, usually done in … you guessed it, underwear.