There is a good reason it is so popular. The business side is well organized, and masterfully promoted. Also, it is a step beyond boxing or wrestling in every way. The ability to throw kicks while standing, and the option to take the fight to the ground adds a complexity that makes boxing pale in comparison. Where wrestling is concerned, the fact that striking is part of the contest adds a level of excitement that wrestling doesn't have, and is essential to the mainstream popularity that catapulted MMA to its current level. Live on Pay-per-View, on Spike and most sports networks it has become a passion for fans, and a lightning rod for controversy from critics.
March 30th will debut the 13 season of TUF (The Ultimate Fighter). A reality show that features mixed martial arts fighters, who train and compete for a six figure contract with the UFC, the largest and most successful MMA organization in the world. With this groundbreaking series about to start a new season The Manic Martial Artist asks a few questions about this sport.
- Is it too violent and dangerous, a Bloodsport?
- How does MMA compare with other combat sports that have been around for years and have empirical data of the long term affects on fighters?
- Does it degenerate the spirit and philosophies of martial arts as a discipline?
- Martial Arts Masters have passed on their styles, techniques and philosophies for hundreds of years. Many never compete and feel that competition of this nature demean martial arts.
- How does it compare with martial arts that have been developed, and studied for hundreds of years?
- If a modern champion of Mixed Martial Arts fought a true Master of Kung Fu, Muay Thai, Jujutsu, Ninjutsu or Capoeira, from the history of these styles, would the outcome be a foregone conclusion?
