In the past few years, we have definitely seen a rise of MMA (Mixed Martial Arts). It is undeniable that mma and almost its synonym UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship) is one of if not the fastest growing sport in the world.

There are many MMA promotions out there including WEC, UFC, Strikeforce, etc. UFC President Dana White has indeed been a driving force in the growth of Mixed Martial Arts.

With explanations out of the way- I pose the question: Is the rise of MMA in its present form a good or bad thing?

The Bad:
We have every day guys at the club all fired up and heated thinking that because they took a few lessons in BJJ (Brazillian Jiu Jitsu) that they are now “Martial Artists” and can kick anyone’s ass. There are two things to this:

1) They might actually be able to take on a lighter inexperienced person who has had NO martial arts, bjj, or fighting experience.

2) It’s still annoying for people going around thinking they can “beat this guy or that guy up” and for them to think they actually know martial arts. They’re limited knowledge of 2-3 submission techniques would also predominantly only be useful in a one on one fight where there are rules. I don’t think these people think about that. They take their 3 classes and then start thinking they are unstoppable. That is not the mentality of a true martial artist.

The Good:
It is making the word “martial arts” more popular and more financially popular now that there are larger endorsements rolling in. What we can hope for is the evolution of the sport and for fighters to grow in their martial arts background. Hopefully this means that the people who are truly good are those that study some of the traditions and foundational teachings of martial arts. Ie: respect for fighters/coaches/people, discipline in training and life, precision and traditional techniques beyond the popular styles out there. Hopefully martial arts culture spreading into homes of people who were not familiar with martial arts will only help continue the legacy and traditions of martial arts.

Anyways, these are a few thoughts here at WushuKicks.com

Feel free to share you thoughts on the direction of Mixed Martial Arts and its effect on society and martial arts in general.