As of now, we can say that mixed martial arts is probably one of the most popular sports in the world today. In fact, only a few people would ask what is mma all about. Their number will surely continue to lessen since the popularity of mma is increasing day by day. Despite of how brutal fighting mixed martial arts can be, people still love to watch its fights. The different fighting styles techniques that the players present in the arena pave the way to the popularity of mixed martial arts.
A lot of people are amazed and intrigued about how versatile this combat sports is. Isn't it amazing to watch one sports cover up all the combination of different disciplines—boxing, muay thai, jujitsu and many more.
How did mma start?
We cannot know how the concept mma turned out to be what it is now without going back to where it all began.
Actually, the history of mma dates back to 648BC. It originated in Greece. During that time, a sport called Pankration came into view. That was the start of mma. After that, there has been a series of different mma events. Shows, ranging from no holds barred to the Merikan fighting during the 1900s, has been seen by a lot of people. At first, these fights showcases boxing experts fighting against jujitsu experts. This all changed during the 1920's when the Gracie Family started the Vale Tudo Tournaments held in Brazil. However, the sports gained most of its popularity because of Bruce Lee. Bruce Lee showed his amazing moves in his dragon movie series. Ever since then, mixed martial arts has never been the same. It has been enjoyed, appreciated and recognized by the whole world. Bruce Lee was the first person to show a move with a combination of various disciplines.
What sealed the deal for mixed martial arts is actually the introduction of Ultimate Fighting Championship last 1993. At first, Royce Gracie had become the king of UFC. Because of him, a lot of martial arts fighters has been inspired to train and try out multiple fighting techniques. However, its violence has not escaped the eyes and scrutiny of the government and many political figures. As a result, mixed martial arts tournaments have transformed from the no-hold barred system to a more systematized and mild sporting combat. The mixed martial arts that we are now enjoying has some safety rules, paving the way for less brutal and more fan-friendly game.
Thanks to all its changes, mixed martial arts have been introduced to mainstream media exposure. Since it is less brutal, it has been allowed to be shown in TV and it is currently rocking the TV industry. In fact, it also invaded the Internet market. With mma new sites released, a lot of people can get a hold of information about these sports.