When we think of martial arts, non-weapon based martial arts such as BJJ or Karate comes to our minds first. But what’s often forgotten is that there are just as many weapon-based martial arts as non-weapon based martial arts. Since ancient times, humans have created weapon-based martial arts to prepare combatants to win in wars in battles. For this reason, weapon-based martial arts played a very crucial role in combat.
The first UFC began on the 12th November 1993 when WOW Promotions produced its first-ever mixed martial arts event, the Ultimate Fighting Championship (which would later be renamed to UFC 1: The Beginning). The event was held at the McNichols Sports Arena in Denver Colorado and was also broadcasted live on PPV (pay-per-vie
According to data, most UFC champs come from either wrestling or BJJ. This suggests grappling is a more effective fighting style than striking and there are good reasons for this. Grappling can nullify striking in most self-defense scenarios because grapplers learn how to utilize grappling techniques to counter striking. On the other side, striking arts aren’t designed to stop grappling techniques. Strikers only learn how to fight against strikers so their skills are very limited when it comes to defending against grappling techniques.
BJJ is incredibly useful, but not essential, in MMA. It is one of the best martial arts for ground fights, but does not train fighters for clinching and stand-up fights. Other martial art combinations, such as Sambo and Wrestling, teach ground technique as well as clinching and stand-up fighting.
According to famous MMA color commentator Joe Rogan, wrestlers dominate MMA because the wrestling style allows fighters to “dictate where the fight takes place”. Wrestlers tend to have an easier time putting their opponent into a disadvantageous position and are also equipped with the tools needed to keep them there.
Studies have shown that MMA fighters are at a higher risk of suffering brain damage. This risk goes up the longer an MMA fighter’s career goes on, and researchers have determined that some regions of the brain, in particular, suffer significant degradation.