History Of Mixed Martial Arts

The history of mixed martial arts dates all the way back to the ancient Greeks and continues to grow and thrive throughout modern day cultures around the world. Combining intense fighting styles with martial art moves from various styles, mixed martial arts have grown into a popular spectator sport, just as they were back in the day.

Ancient Greeks When mixed martial arts first evolved, it appeared in Ancient Rome. Around 648 B.C., a sport known as pankration became popular in the Olympic games and other competitions. It mixed the hardcore punching of boxing with the defensive styles of grappling. As the Greek empire fell, the sport began to fade.

Gracie Family The generations of the Gracie family grew up in Brazil and Carlos Gracie learned Japanese mixed martial art style from an old family friend, Mitsuyo Maeda. Soon, he had spread the tradition and began training others in mixed martial arts. They issued what was known as the "Gracie Challenge" to invite others skilled in Japanese mixed martial arts to come fight against them. The Gracie family rarely lost a match.

United States Mixed Martial Arts Around the 1980s, the Gracie family came to the United States to teach mixed martial arts to the people. Mixed martial arts had become a huge spectator sport in Brazil and grew rapidly in the United States as well. In 1993, the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) was developed and has continued to grow throughout modern day. Matches are held regularly.

Philosophy Known as ultimate fighting, mixed martial arts often involves intensive, fast-paced fighting using only the body and no weaponry. Grappling and punches play the main role in taking down one's opponent. Often matches are televised and spectators can watch in person at the matches or from home.