Know the game: what smart fans need to know about Mixed Martial Arts (MMA)

Often regarded as the most dangerous of all forms of fighting competition, Mixed Martial Arts (MMA, or MMA mixed martial arts) is renowned for its multidimensional fighters with their own tactics and rules.

MMA is one of the most demanding, brutal and technically demanding sports requiring fighters to have tremendous stamina, determination, skill and a will never to give up.

What is Mixed Martial Arts?

MMA is unintentionally known as Ultimate Fighting, yet the ‘sport’ itself is proclaimed as MMA or Mixed Martial Arts.

The UFC, Ultimate Fighting Championship, is the primary competition that promotes mma competition.

UFC events are held in an octagon cage, a uniquely shaped eight-sided enclosure that serves as the regulated fighting area and is a defining feature of mma competition.

Much like football has the Premier League, Serie A, La Liga, basketball having the or F1 with their Grands Prix. Boxing too, has its many promotions, including the IBF, WBC, WBA.

MMA then has the UFC hence its alternate name.

A brief history of MMA

Modern MMA has evolved since its early days of “anything goes” in the ring.

MMA history traces back to both ancient and modern influences, with the sport developing through key milestones, legendary fighters, and the blending of different traditions. Today, the sport has gone global and, importantly, gone mainstream, with its rules and highly trained, world-class athletes.

Originally conceived in Brazil and Japan in the early 20th century as a way to bet on which martial art was superior to others, MMA drew from various combat sports and different martial arts styles, including judo, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, Muay Thai, and wrestling.

In Brazil, vale tudo events—no-holds-barred contests with minimal rules—played a significant role in shaping modern mixed martial arts (MMA). The Gracie family, based in Rio de Janeiro, played a pivotal role in developing Brazilian jiu-jitsu and made significant contributions to the early days of MMA, including the establishment of the first UFC events. By the end of the century, it had reached the USA, and the UFC was formed as a concept to pit competitors from various martial arts backgrounds against one another to determine which was the best.

Throughout the 1990s, the UFC struggled to secure television deals that would promote the sport, and politicians and the media disliked its clichéd and brutal nature as role models for younger people growing up. The evolution of MMA was also shaped by the integration of wrestling styles, including those featured in the Olympic Games, which provided foundational techniques for fighters. Finally, the popularity of the sport increased due to investments of capital from wealthier sports enthusiasts, and the UFC ultimately gained mainstream notoriety. The rise of stars like Chuck Liddell helped bring MMA to mainstream attention, while the UFC president played a crucial role in shaping the sport’s direction and public image.

By 2023, the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) achieved a record-breaking revenue of $1.3 billion, marking a 13% increase from the previous year. This growth was driven by significant increases in media rights, live event revenues, and sponsorships.

Additionally, the global mixed martial arts equipment market was valued at approximately $1.43 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach $2.15 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.65%.

MMA is no longer considered the barbaric blood sport of the 90s (although it remains brutal) and is now one of the fastest-growing sports in the USA, quickly entering the Asian audience market.

What fighting styles are part of mixed martial arts?

There are hundreds of fighting styles within MMA; however, spectators will probably recognise the following being applied:

• Boxing
• Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
• Judo
• Karate
• Kickboxing (Both Sanshou and Muay Thai)
• Sambo (Russian combat art specialising in submission holds)
• Taekwondo
• Wrestling (Freestyle and Catch Wrestling)
• Kung Fu
• Thai Boxing
• French Stick Fighting

Fighters tend to either be specialists in one martial art or adaptable to many. Once again, the original concept of MMA was pitching fighters of different styles, utilising their skills against each other. 

For example, how would a kickboxer do against a wrestler?

As the sport has evolved, most fighters are adept in multiple disciplines and train more for MMA rather than only one martial art. Many fighters now come from a wide range of combat styles and backgrounds, contributing to the diversity and effectiveness seen in modern MMA.

MMA organisations and governance

MMA organisations are the backbone of the sport, shaping its rules, structure, and global reach. The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) stands as the most recognised name in MMA, regularly hosting world-class events that feature top MMA fighters from a variety of martial arts disciplines, including Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and wrestling. 

Alongside the UFC, organisations such as Bellator MMA (no longer running), ONE Championship, and the Professional Fighters League (PFL) have carved out their niches, each bringing unique formats and international talent to the forefront.

These MMA organisations are responsible for establishing and enforcing the unified rules that govern mixed martial competition, ensuring that every bout is conducted safely and fairly. They also set standards for fighter eligibility, event organisation, and championship rankings. On a broader scale, bodies such as the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) work to promote the sport globally, striving for consistency in rules and safety protocols across different regions.

The diversity of martial arts represented, ranging from jiu-jitsu and Muay Thai to karate and sambo, reflects the inclusive nature of modern mixed martial arts (MMA). This blend of various martial arts disciplines not only enriches the sport but also ensures that MMA remains a dynamic and evolving combat sport on the world stage.

Rules of MMA

Although the UFC used the catchphrase “there are no rules!” in the early 1990s, the organisation has to operate with some rules, including a ban on biting and eye-gouging. Other aggressive ‘moves’ like head-butting, groin strikes, fish-hooking and hair pulling were permitted yet frowned upon in the ring. Over time, MMA rules have evolved from minimal restrictions to the current standardised system.

Today, MMA rules categorise fighters into distinct weight classes, with each class having an upper weight limit to ensure fair and safe competition. Under the Unified Rules, there are nine weight classes recognised for men, each with specific upper weight limits. Illegal moves are prohibited, including strikes against a downed opponent, and fights are judged using boxing-style point scoring to determine the winner.

Fights can end by referee stoppage, technical knockout, technical submission, or intervention by a fight doctor to protect fighter safety. A fighter can also win by applying a submission hold that forces the opponent to tap out.

These unified rules of MMA are widely accepted by most MMA organisations, first adopted and introduced by the New Jersey Athletic Commission.

Safety and injury prevention in MMA

Safety is a top priority in modern mixed martial arts, with MMA organisations, coaches, and fighters all playing a role in minimising risk. Protective gear such as gloves, mouthguards, and groin protectors is mandatory, helping to reduce the impact of strikes and accidental injuries. The unified rules of MMA, developed by the Association of Boxing Commissions, strictly regulate which fighting techniques are allowed, banning dangerous moves and ensuring that MMA fighters compete under fair and controlled conditions.

Before stepping into the cage, fighters undergo thorough medical screenings to identify any potential health issues that could put them at risk. After each bout, post-fight medical evaluations are conducted to monitor for injuries, with fight doctors on hand to provide immediate care if needed. These protocols, combined with ongoing research into injury prevention, help make MMA as safe as possible for participants.

By prioritising safety and enforcing strict regulations, MMA organisations foster a positive environment where fighters can showcase their skills in boxing, jiu jitsu, and other martial arts while minimising the risk of serious harm. This commitment to safety is essential for the continued growth and acceptance of MMA as a respected combat sport.

Scoring in MMA

MMA scoring is similar to the ten-point system used in boxing, following the criteria as below, and judges score fighters on:

Judges are deemed to score the fight on whichever opponent has the:

• The most effective striking, including stand-up striking techniques
• The most dominant grappling
• The most takedowns
• Having superiority in the Octagon (meaning a fighter is being the most aggressive or controlling the pace of the fight)

MMA participants are evaluated on their effectiveness in both stand-up striking and grappling, as these are key components of the sport.

The fighter that the judge sees as the winner of the round receives 10-9 if they are slightly ahead, 10-8 if they dominate the round, and, although rarely used, 10-7 if the fighter inflicts colossal damage. Only if there is no clear advantage is a 10-10 draw awarded.

In championship fights, there are specific rules and longer durations compared to regular bouts, making strategy and endurance even more important.

Once the fight has reached its climax, the scores result in one of the following:

• Draw unanimous: All judges perceive the fight as a definite draw, and no fighter gained an advantage.
• Majority Draw: Two judges view the fight as a draw, while one judges one of the fighters as the clear winner. The result: no opponent wins.
• Split Decision: Two judges have one fighter winning, while the other judge has their opponent winning—the fighter with the two judges selecting them as the winner wins the fight.
• Majority Decision: One judge believes the fight is a draw, while two judges have one fighter winning—the fighter with two judges selecting them as the winner wins the match.
• Unanimous Decision: All three of the judges have the same fighter winning the fight.

Mixed martial arts technical moves

Mixed martial arts is more than just one individual’s fight techniques. As fighters begin fighting in the Octagon ring, their rhythm and aggressive fighting style adapt to their opponents, and thus, they employ a variety of methods to win the fight. 

Striking techniques, including boxing punches, play a crucial role in MMA, forming the backbone of stand-up combat and contributing to both significant strikes and knockouts.

Each of those techniques, however, is built on the foundation of the following ten moves:

• Jab
• Overhand
• Round Kick
• Knew from the Double-Collar Tie
• Double-Leg Takedown
• Trip
• Sprawl
• Guard Pass
• Rear-Naked Choke
• Ground Striking
• Grappling techniques
• Clinch fighting
• Joint locks

Initially, fighters would come in with a single style of fighting, such as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or boxing. However, they quickly realised that to be successful, they must be able to counter and react to anything their opponent uses. Fighters then adapt and begin kicking, grappling, wrestling, clinching, and even applying joint locks to gain an advantage over their opponent.

Adapting to opponents also requires mastering defensive techniques and engaging in comprehensive fighter training, which includes conditioning, strength, flexibility, and cross-disciplinary practice to prepare for all possible scenarios.

MMA then ‘evolves’ as a sport because the participants utilise various techniques spanning hundreds of martial arts to better themselves and overcome their opponents. The modern style of MMA combines striking techniques, grappling techniques, clinch fighting, joint locks, and defensive skills to achieve maximum effectiveness.

Hence, it is impossible to list them all in this article!

Women’s MMA and Amateur MMA

Women’s MMA has seen explosive growth, with female MMA fighters now headlining major events and earning recognition for their skill and athleticism. 

Organisations like the UFC have established dedicated women’s divisions, showcasing talent from a range of martial arts backgrounds, including Muay Thai and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Fighters such as Amanda Nunes and Valentina Shevchenko have become household names, inspiring a new generation of athletes.

Amateur MMA is also thriving, serving as a crucial stepping stone for many aspiring MMA fighters seeking to transition into the professional ranks. 

The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) has played a pivotal role in organising amateur tournaments worldwide, giving up-and-coming fighters the chance to gain experience and develop their mixed martial arts skills in a competitive but supportive environment.

Both women’s and amateur MMA offer unique growth opportunities, allowing fighters to hone their techniques in jiu jitsu, striking, and other martial arts disciplines. 

As more athletes from diverse backgrounds enter the sport, the level of competition continues to rise, ensuring that the future of MMA remains bright and inclusive.

Global MMA community

MMA has grown into a truly global phenomenon, uniting fans, fighters, and organisations from every corner of the world. With events held in over 100 countries, the sport’s reach extends far beyond its origins, drawing participants from a diverse array of martial arts disciplines, including Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and wrestling. Many MMA fighters travel internationally to train, compete, and share their knowledge, contributing to a vibrant and interconnected community.

Social media platforms have played a significant role in building this global MMA community, allowing fans to follow their favourite fighters, discuss upcoming bouts, and share highlights from MMA events. This digital connectivity has helped spread the values of discipline, respect, and self-improvement that are central to martial arts, inspiring countless individuals to take up MMA training themselves.

As the sport continues to grow, the global MMA community remains united by a shared passion for mixed martial arts and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in combat sports. Whether you’re a fan, a fighter, or simply curious about the world of MMA, there’s never been a better time to get involved.

How to bet on mixed martial arts: know the game

Mixed martial arts may not have achieved the global saturation of mainstream team sports, but there is no denying its rapidly growing popularity, particularly among Western audiences. With global promotions such as the UFC and ONE Championship hosting high-profile events year-round, as well as major tournaments like world championships that draw worldwide attention and betting activity, MMA has firmly established itself as a premier combat sport.

With this guide to MMA, you should have enough knowledge to start following the action—and, if you wish, betting on your first MMA bout or UFC fight card. Understanding the key disciplines involved (such as striking, wrestling, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu), as well as the various ways fights can be won—by knockout, submission, or decision—is essential for any informed viewer.

MMA betting markets include:

• Fight winner – select which fighter will win the bout.
• Method of victory – back a knockout, submission, or judge’s decision.
• Round betting – predict in which round the fight will end.
• Total rounds (over/under) – bet on how long the fight will last.
• Props and specials – including whether a fighter will be knocked down or whether the fight will go the distance.

Smart bettors don’t just look at records—they consider:

• Fighting style matchups – grappler vs striker bouts often favour control specialists.
• Recent form – including last performances and level of opposition.
• Weight cuts and camp changes – both can dramatically influence stamina and sharpness.
• Reach and age differences, particularly in three-round fights, where early dominance matters.

Reading MMA odds is crucial to identifying value. Underdogs are often priced generously, and upsets are not uncommon in such a volatile sport.

If you’re new to MMA betting, explore trusted betting tipsters who specialise in combat sports. For experienced bettors, arbitrage betting software can be a valuable tool for comparing prices and maximising value across sportsbooks.

With a year-round calendar of events and a passionate global fanbase, MMA offers a compelling blend of technique, brutality, and drama—making it an increasingly popular sport to watch, analyse, and bet on.