If you’re a regular follower of the UFC, you may have heard the term “matchmaking” mentioned a couple of times. As a result, you may be wondering how the UFC matchmaking process works and how exactly each fight card is put together.
Matchmaking is a complex process as UFC president Dana White has stated in the past. It’s not as easy as just pairing fighter X against fighter Y. White has a war room in his office specifically dedicated to building future fights. UFC matchmaking is typically done on a weekly basis by reviewing every top 15 fighter’s name listed on a whiteboard in the UFC war room and figuring out who should fight next and who should fight who based on special UFC criteria.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the UFC matchmaking process so that you can easily understand how it all works as well as have any fleeting questions answered.
What Do UFC Matchmakers Do?
UFC matchmakers play a pivotal role for the Las Vegas-based promotion — they determine and schedule the fights fans see on a weekly basis. They do this by taking into account skill level, current streaks, stylistic matchups, and popularity, among other factors.
That said, they not only plan fights, but also plan entire fight cards and events, ensuring that they are balanced with the right mix of name value and rising prospects. That’s not all either. They also have to build and maintain relationships with the fighters as they will more often than not be in regular communication over booking their next fights.
How Does UFC Matchmaking Work?
The UFC matchmaking process is complex, with many factors taken into account. While it’s true and only natural that matchmakers will have their own biases and preferences, the ultimate goal is to book fights that will appeal to fans and drive revenue for the organization. Here are some of the key factors that are considered in the matchmaking process:
1. Fan consensus: One of the most important factors in UFC matchmaking is the fans. The UFC prides itself on booking the fights all the fans want to see, unlike in boxing. Matchmakers also want to book fights that fans want to see, as it will only further drive ticket sales and pay-per-view buys. Fan consensus can be gauged from social media, fan feedback, and media coverage.
2. Star power: Fighters who have a significant fan base, social media following, or generate a lot of media attention can be a draw for fights. These fighters are more likely to be booked for high-profile matchups that will drive ticket sales and pay-per-view buys.
In some cases, they may even get preferential treatment and leapfrog a more deserving fighter for a title shot, for example. Conor McGregor is a prime example, as he notably took Khabib Nurmagomedov’s title shot against Eddie Alvarez back in 2016.
3. Deserved opportunities: However, fighters who have consistently performed well, stepped up when the UFC have needed them, have a long winning streak, have beaten top-tier competition, or are extremely active fighters are more than likely to get title shots or the fights they want even if they are not big draws. An example of this is Kamaru Usman getting a welterweight title shot over Colby Covington back in 2019.
4. Rankings: The UFC has an official ranking system, which is decided by certain media members. Fighters ranked closer to the top are generally in contention for title fights, especially if the fighters ranked above them have already lost to the current champion. However, other factors come into play, such as availability and scheduling, and a fighter’s ranking is not the sole factor.
5. Stylistic matchups: The stylistic matchup is also taken into consideration. A grappler vs. striker matchup is usually a popular choice, but when the UFC is looking to carefully manage the career path of a fighter, they may choose to give a certain fighter a stylistic matchup. In the case of an exciting striker, they may book them solely against fellow strikers to avoid them getting exposed on the ground.
As for the actual matchmaking process, Dana White has stated that it involves a lot of discussion and debate among his team of matchmakers, with each matchmaker bringing their own perspectives and ideas to the table. He described the process as “a long, drawn-out process that goes on. [The winner] will be part of the bickering and the fighting and the arguing.” Ultimately, the final decision on matchmaking and fights is a result of this collaborative process.
Who Are the UFC Matchmakers?
There are only a select few matchmakers that are known to the public. Joe Silva used to be a matchmaker, but the prominent ones today are UFC president Dana White, Sean Shelby, Mick Maynard, and Hunter Campbell. White aside, the trio of Shelby, Maynard, and Campbell play a huge role behind the scenes, as their matchups can not only shape a fighter’s career but the many narratives and storylines the UFC has going for it.
Additionally, matchmaking is not their only job. For example, in addition to being a matchmaker, Shelby serves as the UFC’s senior vice president of talent relations. Maynard is the vice president of talent relations, while Campbell mainly serves as the UFC executive vice president and chief business officer.
Is UFC Matchmaking All Done by Dana White?
Dana White, as UFC president, does have a significant role in matchmaking, but he is not the sole matchmaker in the organization. Matchmaking is a collaborative effort involving other prominent matchmakers, such as Sean Shelby, Mick Maynard, and Hunter Campbell.
While Dana White has a significant influence on matchmaking given his role, it is a shared responsibility among a group of experienced matchmakers who work together to make the best possible fights for the organization. If he does have a fight he’s fully intent on booking, he won’t book it by himself — he’ll call the rest of the matchmakers and get the wheels in motion.
When and Where Does UFC Matchmaking Usually Take Place?
Unless you’re an avid watcher of UFC post-fight press conferences, it wouldn’t be surprising if you didn’t know this answer. Whenever Dana White is asked about making a fight following an event, he usually says one of three things: he confirms a fight if there’s absolutely no question about it being made; if it’s up in the air, he usually says he doesn’t make fights on the night of a fight; and finally, he says he’ll have a meeting with the matchmakers on the upcoming Tuesday.
That’s the key day of the week for matchmaking — Tuesdays. Why is it Tuesday? Well, fight nights and pay-per-views are usually on Saturday nights. Sundays are a day off as most people are traveling or resting up. Monday, according to Dana White, is a day you “catch up with sh*t you didn’t get done last week,” and so, Tuesday has become the holy day for matchmaking meetings.
According to White, he and the rest of the matchmakers get into the aforementioned war room in the UFC headquarters and look at all the fighters who shined on the Saturday night a few days earlier. They figure out the trajectory they’re heading in as well as what’s next for them as well as the losers on the night.
Speaking of the war room, White calls it one of the most important rooms in the UFC headquarters. To see and learn more about it, you can watch the video below:
Can UFC Fighters Choose Who They Fight?
For the most part? No. UFC fighters cannot choose who they want to fight. This is mainly dependent on Dana White and the rest of the matchmakers, who have the final say.
All that said, fighters at a certain level could have a say or influence in the matchmaking process. If you’re a champion or a fighter in the good graces of the UFC, you could call for a specific opponent you’d like to face and end up getting your wish.
One such example is former middleweight champion Israel Adesanya getting his choice of fighting Yoel Romero in 2020 despite the latter coming off a loss. Alternatively, if you’re a hype train or rising star, you may get preferential treatment that could come in the form of the promotion offering you beneficial stylistic matchups that you call for.
But in the end, the decision mainly lies with the matchmakers.
What Happens If a UFC Fighter Declines a Fight?
A UFC fighter doesn’t necessarily have to fight everyone that is offered to them. They are well within their rights to turn down a fight. This is a common occurrence in the UFC, as fighters may have a variety of reasons for turning down a fight, such as injury, illness, or personal reasons. What happens then? The UFC will usually look to replace them with another fighter who is willing to take the bout before eventually offering the fighter who turned down a fight another fight down the line.
However, turning down a fight can have extremely negative consequences for a fighter, particularly if they are turning down a title fight or a high-profile matchup. In the case of Colby Covington, he turned down a fight with then-welterweight champion Tyron Woodley as he needed to undergo a procedure. He was later replaced by Darren Till before getting leapfrogged by Kamaru Usman, who went on to win the title. Covington would have to wait over a year to get his title shot after initially turning it down.
Similarly, Dricus Du Plessis turned down a fight with Israel Adesanya due to injury and was replaced by Sean Strickland, who also went on to win the belt. In the Du Plessis case, Dana White made it very clear to everyone that he’s not happy with fighters turning down a fight.
Of course, White has notably claimed on a number of occasions that contractually, the UFC has to offer fighters three fights a year or else they’ll have to compensate the fighter. If a fighter turns down a fight, the UFC has done its job by offering the fight in the first place. However, as seen with Covington and Du Plessis, the brass—UFC management tends to be unhappy with fighters who turn down fights, similar to employers being unhappy with employees rejecting their work assignments.
While it is not guaranteed that a fighter will never be given a title shot after turning down a fight, it is clear that doing so can have negative consequences for their career. That is why it’s important for fighters to consider the potential ramifications of turning down a fight before making a final decision.
Becoming a UFC matchmaker is not the same process as getting a regular job. You won’t be finding a job posting on LinkedIn or Indeed for becoming a matchmaker. Relationships and networking are the way to get a step into the world of UFC. But even that’s not enough.
Because this role is so crucial to the UFC, it is also a matter of trust while seniority also plays a factor. That is why the likes of Campbell, Maynard and Shelby are all matchmakers as they are not only embedded in the sport and have been part of the promotion for a while, but are also among the closest confidants to White.
What Is the Salary of a UFC Matchmaker?
There is currently no disclosed information on what a UFC matchmaker makes as an annual salary. That said, there is likely no fixed salary for a matchmaker either, given that the current matchmakers have other duties as their main job while they also serve as matchmakers.
This ties back to the previous point on how you can’t really apply to become a matchmaker—it’s just a job that you have in addition to your current job at the UFC.
How Does Matchmaking Work In Other MMA Organizations?
Each MMA promotion is different and will have their own rules and set of matchmakers when it comes to booking fights. Peter Murray, CEO of the PFL, plays a big role and as does ONE Championship CEO Chatri Sityodtong. With Bellator, president Scott Coker takes on matchmaking duties along with Mike Kogan while Jude Samuel handles European fights. The general gist, however, is likely to be the same as far as fighting criteria goes.
Editor’s note: The views and opinions expressed below are those of the author.
During the ’90s and 2000s, kickboxing and the legendary K-1 events used to rule the world of combat sports. Throughout these two decades, kickboxing fans got to see some incredibly talented and dominant champions compete inside the ring. However, no one was as popular as Badr Hari, and many people wonder: Is he the greatest kickboxer of all time?
Badr Hari is not the greatest kickboxer of all time, as he certainly wasn’t the most dominant one who never won the K-1 World Grand Prix title. But Hari became the most popular kickboxer due to his exciting fighting style, charismatic persona, wild behavior, and constant media attention.
In this article, we will take a closer look into Badr Hari’s career, accomplishments, wild personality, and all the troubles that clearly cost him a better career in the end and ultimately prevented him from becoming the greatest kickboxer.
Who is Badr Hari?
Badr Hari is a famous Dutch kickboxer of Moroccan descent, also known as “The Golden Boy.” He was born in the Netherlands, a country famous for developing the Dutch Style of kickboxing and a place where kickboxing is a national sport.
Kickboxing is integrated deeply into Dutch people’s sports and pop culture, like Karate in Japan or wrestling in Dagestan. Successful kickboxers are considered heroes of the nation, and many kids who look up to them join kickboxing at a very young age, and one of them was Badr Hari.
Born and raised in Amsterdam, Hari enrolled in kickboxing when he was 7 years old. His father sent him to sign up for the classes in order to learn self-defense and how to protect himself against the bullies in school and the neighborhood.
In the following years, Hari showcased a rare talent and potential. By the time he was a teenager, he was already training under the legendary kickboxing coach Thom Harinck and competing and winning matches all across the Netherlands. When he was 18 years old, he already racked up 50 matches on his record and was ready to turn into pro competition.
What made him better than other young kickboxers at the time was his incredibly technical striking, aggression, and prominent finishing instincts, which made him one of the scariest matchups among juniors and later professionals.
After a couple of pro matches in Holland, Hari would leave Harinck and start working with Mike Passenier at the famous “Mike’s Gym.” At the time, Mike worked with some of the world’s finest kickboxers, which enabled young Hari to test himself and elevate his game to another level. He would soon start competing in the Japanese K-1 promotion, which was the biggest combat sports promotion at the time. He fought against the best of the best kickboxers when he was only 20 years old.
In the following five years, he would reach the prestigious World Grand Prix final twice and fail to win the championship. First, he was disqualified in 2008 after kicking the grounded Remy Bonjasky, and then he was finished against Semmy Schillt a year later.
His biggest achievement came when he beat Ruslan Karaev to win the K-1 heavyweight championship in 2007 and when he beat Semmy Schilt to win the “It’s Showtime” heavyweight title.
Why Is Badr Hari So Popular?
Badr Hari is a global superstar and a very controversial figure who, according to many kickboxing fans, would have accomplished much more in his career if it wasn’t for his troublesome persona and aggressive behavior inside and outside the ring. Within combat sports fans, he is considered the Conor Mcgregor of kickboxing, and these two fighters share a lot in common. Both are incredibly talented, outspoken, charming, and controversial fighters who have been arrested multiple times.
When Hari joined K-1, he was a 20-year-old hothead who didn’t respect anyone in the game. He would trash-talk almost every opponent, fight in press conferences, and channel all his anger into the ring by fighting aggressively. He would always lead the fight on the feet, throwing each shot with full power with the goal of knocking out his opponent with pure aggression, which appeared to be without much strategy or tactics.
In the weeks leading up to the event and weeks afterward, he would constantly be on the covers of all sports magazines and news that often portrayed him in a negative way. But as far as Hari is concerned, there was no such thing as bad publicity because it made him more well-known to the general public. After each event, he would be equally destructive on the streets of the Netherlands, where he would often get into street fights, beat people up, and end up in jail.
And he is most likely the first kickboxer who started promoting that flamboyant lifestyle, filming his daily activities, expensive cars, and everything else that comes with being a prizefighter.
In just a few years, he managed to build a really large fan base both in the Netherlands and his native Morocco and create some type of cult around him. He really had that aura of invisibility and was the face of K-1 kickboxing between 2005 and 2009. His rivalries with Remy Bonjasky, Alistair Overeem, and many others brought millions of new fans to the sport, and all of this ultimately made him the most popular kickboxer in the world.
The best thing about him — Hari wasn’t acting or playing a villain role. No, he has been battling with anger issues his entire life, and this is something he often publicly talks about. Although this may sound weird, all of these controversies and his hooligan-type persona are what made him so famous in the end. Conor Mcgregor is a fair comparison. Like Hari, the Irishman is not the most accomplished MMA fighter but is by far the most popular in history.
Badr Hari is, without a doubt, the most popular kickboxer of all time. However, he is certainly not among the greatest of all time if you compare his record with other great kickboxers such as Semmy Schilt, Remy Bonjasky, or Ernesto Hoost. In fact, it’s really hard to put Hari into the top 5 if we focus solely on titles and accomplishments.
Still, no one can deny what he has done for the sport of kickboxing in terms of global popularity and bringing in dozens of millions of fans. He deserves a lot of credit for elevating the sport to the mainstream levels. What he has done is very similar to the impact Conor Mcgregor had on the sport of MMA and the UFC. Yes, MMA was popular before Mcgregor, and there have been better fighters. But the Irishman is directly responsible for the mainstream rise of the sport. And the same can be said about Hari.
Overall, Badr Hari is not the greatest kickboxer in terms of results. However, he is certainly among the most influential kickboxing figures in history and the most popular kickboxer. And on top of that, there is a strong argument that he might be the most exciting and violent fighter the world has ever seen.
His fights are guaranteed entertainment and fireworks from the opening second to the very end, and that’s why there is always such a big hype whenever he is fighting. He has that “kill or be killed” type of mindset that, on one side, made him famous but, on the other, cost him some great wins.
In the end, Hari has over 125 fights on his record, and his finishing rate is close to 90%, which tells you a lot about how exciting his fights are. Speaking of his violent nature inside the ring, let’s take a closer look at his fighting style next.
At first, Hari might look like a wild fighter who doesn’t care much about tactics and defense and who primarily relies on his violent instincts, overwhelming the opponent with sheer aggression and power. But if you look closely, he is a very technical fighter who, even during the wild exchanges in the pocket, always maintains high awareness, knows what he is doing, and is in total control.
Hari is 1.97 m (6 ft 5) tall and enjoys quite a significant reach advantage in most of his fights. He prefers to stand in a square, Muay Thai type of stance and bank on his long reach to demolish his opponents with basics such as the jab, cross, and low-kick combination. Unlike most other Dutch-style fighters, he doesn’t have a high output of strikes and rarely throws long combinations. Instead, he has a tendency to load up and throw each shot with full power.
In most cases, he would either catch the opponent coming in with a hard cross or the counter left hook or attack using high kicks or body-head punching combinations. He would rarely throw more than 2–3 punches in one burst. His favorite weapon has to be a powerful right hand down the middle, and he also often uses it to attack the body.
The power combined with his violent nature and fearless mind is what made him such a tough matchup for anyone. Once he senses the opponent is hurt, he will charge in like a maniac with a flurry of punching combos and will not stop until the opponent hits the canvas.
Also, Hari used to compete in the openweight division, where he was undersized in just about every fight. But he never had a problem with this, and he would often successfully trade power shots with fighters much heavier than he was. Later in his career, he would add quite a lot of muscle mass and, at one point, weigh around 250 pounds.
Throughout his long career, Hari has been involved in a long list of exciting fights, and picking a few of his greatest fights is not an easy task. Following is a list of his five most memorable wins and finishes. These 5 matches are all you need to learn who Badr Hari is, why he is so popular, and what makes him so special.
Badr Hari vs. Peter Aerts (2008 K-1 World GP Quarter-Final)
Back in 2008, Hari faced the legendary 3-time K-1 World GP champion Peter Aerts. This was a typical matchup between the veteran on his way down and an established contender in his prime. A much younger, faster, and more powerful Hari put on an amazing performance to finish Aerts in the second round.
Badr Hari vs. Errol Zimmerman (2008 K-1 World GP Semi-Finals)
After beating Peter Aerts, Hari faced Zimmerman in the semi-finals. In the second round, Zimmerman would knock him down with a vicious overhand right. The shot literally echoed through the arena, and everybody thought Hari was done.
However, he stood back up and, a minute later, managed to send Zimmerman down to the floor with a nasty counter right-cross in the last second of the round before finishing him in the third with another cross.
Badr Hari vs. Ruslan Karaev (2007 K-1 World GP)
Karaev and Hari fought a couple of times, but their meeting in 2007 ended up as one of the most chaotic kickboxing fights ever. After a wild back-and-forth brawl in the first, where Karaev landed better and more damaging shorts, he finally managed to knock Hari down in the second with a nasty right hand.
Hari somehow managed to stand up but was visibly hurt. Karaev smelled the blood, and he moved in to finish the fight with another flurry, completely forgetting about his defense. As a result, Hari managed to return the favor and knock Karaev out with a hard right cross.
Badr Hari vs. Stefan Leko 2 (2005 K-1 World GP)
In the first fight, Hari got knocked out by Leko with a spinning back-kick to the body. The knockout was a big deal because there was a lot of animosity and trash-talk leading up to the fight and even more in the rematch that happened a few months later.
But this time, Hari would avenge the loss with one of the greatest knockouts in combat sports history. He caught Leko with a spinning back heel kick to the head, and he knocked him out unconscious.
Badr Hari vs. Semmy Schilt I (“It’s Showtime”; 2009)
Many fans consider Hari’s win over Semmy Schilt at “It’s Showtime” to be the greatest of his career. At the time, Schilt was already a three-time K-1 champion and still in his prime, and no one saw Hari winning the fight. However, Hari came out aggressive, and he managed to finish Schilt within the first minute of the fight.
Is Badr Hari Still Competing?
Despite being close to his 40s and having over 125 professional kickboxing fights on his record, Hari is still an active fighter. What is surprising, however, is that he still is a global superstar, and his fan base is stronger than ever.
Despite the 3 losses he suffered and two no contests in his last 5 matches, Hari is still easily selling out stadiums in the Netherlands, and all events he participates in are real spectacles. Also, he is physically looking strong and is still agile, fast, and powerful. In fact, he managed to go toe-to-toe with all of his last 5 opponents, hurt them at some point in a fight, and nearly get a finish.
But the one crucial thing that started giving up on him is his chin. Due to all the gym wars and damage he absorbed in competition, Hari can no longer take a shot as he used to, and he has a really hard time recovering when he gets caught.
So, despite looking good in a fight and even leading on the scorecards, it seems like the one-well-placed shot is all that it takes to put him out. And in his defense, he fought some of the best kickboxers in the last couple of years, like Rico Verhoeven, who is one of the greatest of all time and always dangerous Benjamin Adegbuyi.
When people seek martial arts training, they typically choose globally recognized styles such as Karate, Taekwondo, BJJ, or Muay Thai.
But there are a number of lesser-known martial arts that are just as effective as the globally recognized ones or even better, and you might have heard of some of them. Despite receiving high praise from martial arts experts for their effectiveness, these martial arts have not gained much interest from the general public over the years.
And with that, in this article, we are going to take a closer look at the 10 most underrated and overlooked martial arts that you should know about.
Lethwei is a combat sport from Myanmar that conceptually shares a lot in common with more popular Muay Thai. Although both Lethwei and Muay Thai are full-contact striking arts, Lethwei is far more brutal and, by many, arguably even more effective on paper.
It is also known as the “Art of Nine Limbs” as it teaches a person how to strike using all limbs at all ranges, including the clinch. As far as conventional techniques are concerned, this includes punches, kicks, knees, and elbows.
But on top of that, the system adds brutal techniques like the infamous headbutts, which fighters are allowed to use at any moment during the fight. Lethwei teaches the use of headbutts at close range for good reason. This technique can be a lifesaver when punching is not an option due to trapped arms or the inability to move arms during a fight.
Like that’s not dangerous enough, Lethwei fighters compete in bare knuckles without wearing any padded boxing or open-fingered gloves. They only wrap their hands in gauze, and that’s it. Further, the emphasis is on throwing each strike with full power and a goal to finish the fight.
The result of all this is a high injury rate. You can see serious injuries like concussions, deep cuts, and severe bleeding in just about every match. Due to its violent nature, Lethwei is not a marketable martial art for the masses, so it’s been largely overlooked by the general public.
Still, realistic teaching methods and brutality are what make Lethwei one of the most effective self-defense martial arts of them all.
Sambo is a Russian self-defense system developed by the military in the 1920s that is also very popular all across Eastern Europe. In some ways, sambo is similar to modern MMA fighting in that it’s a hybrid mix of various combat styles.
There are two variations called Sports Sambo and Combat Sambo. Both are practiced for self-defense and sports competitions. Sports Sambo is very similar to Judo, focusing on standup grappling and ground fighting only, excluding any forms of striking. Practitioners learn how to use judo throws and wrestling takedowns to advance to the ground, where the goal is to take a dominant position and subdue the opponent with chokes, joint locks, or holds.
Combat sambo is more versatile as it was designed for combat situations, so it includes striking techniques with kicks and punches, unlike sport sambo. The rules emphasize high-paced action, which forces the athletes to be aggressive and always chase a finish. There is also a Russian military version of Combat Sambo, similar to Krav Maga, involving weapon-based training and dirty fighting techniques like eye gouging or attacking pressure points.
Despite being around for over a century and proving its effectiveness in and outside combat competitions, Sambo is one of the most underappreciated martial arts that has never gained much traction outside Russia and former Soviet republics.
8. Kyokushin Karate
Mas Oyama, the founder of Kyokushin Karate
There are many different styles of Karate, but most of them are not effective in real combat because they focus on semi and light-contact sparring and lack realism in their training curriculum. However, Kyokushin karate is a rare exception to Karate and is considered the toughest style of Karate and one of the most brutal martial arts styles in general.
First of all, Kyokushin is a full-contact style where practitioners use full power to throw rapid kicks and punches. The main focus is to strike with powerful low and high kicks at close range. Punches to the head, clinch fighting, and throws are prohibited; punches are only allowed to the upper body below the neck.
Kyokushin emphasizes sparring as one of the best methods for preparing a person for actual combat. But unlike other martial arts, Kyokushin students engage in full-contact sparring without protective gear, creating a highly realistic combat training environment despite the inherent danger of injuries.
The only downside is that Kyokushin is not as popular as other karate styles, mainly because it carries a high risk of injuries.
Sanda, also known as “Chinese kickboxing,” is a highly practical martial art that can be effectively used in any self-defense situation. The learning curriculum focuses only on techniques proven effective in real combat, and students engage only in exercises that directly enhance their performance.
Sanda is a martial art that combines striking and grappling techniques, although it is primarily considered to be a striking art. There are two variations of Sanda: the sports variation and the military variation.
In the sports variation, kickboxing is mixed with a variety of grappling techniques, such as takedowns and throws.
In the military variation, Sanda employs all parts of the body as weapons, utilizing upper and lower body striking, throwing (wrestling and Judo moves), and seizing techniques (joint-locks, strangulation, and submissions).
Sanda has become one of the most popular combat sports in the Eastern world, including countries like Russia, China, and Armenia. However, it hasn’t gained much recognition among striking arts in Western countries, making it almost unfamiliar to most people in these regions.
6. Catch wrestling
John Graham Chambers created the submission wrestling style known as “catch wrestling” in 1859, drawing inspiration from Irish and Lancashire collar-and-elbow techniques. Catch wrestling is the progenitor of modern freestyle and collegiate wrestling, which have received a lot more attention lately due to increased interest in grappling arts.
Catch wrestling is becoming increasingly popular in MMA circles due to its suitability for MMA rules compared to other styles, such as freestyle wrestling. Some of the great catch wrestlers in MMA were Kazushi Sakuraba, Ken Shamrock, and Josh Barnett.
Former UFC Champion Josh Barnett explains catch wrestling.
Catch wrestling is a more versatile variation of freestyle because, apart from manipulating the opponent’s upper and lower body to score a takedown, athletes also use various types of submissions, pins, and holds to subdue and finish the opponent.
Catch wrestling incorporates many of the same takedowns and throws as other wrestling styles, but also introduces advanced ground fighting techniques such as positioning, chokeholds, joint locks, and escapes. Dangerous techniques such as neck cranks, which can cause paralysis, are also included in catch wrestling.
Despite the fact that catch wrestling is a highly effective submission wrestling system widely respected by the MMA community, it has not gained the same level of attention among the general public as freestyle wrestling. Due to a lack of interest, the number of schools offering catch wrestling training is relatively limited compared to those focusing on freestyle wrestling.
5. Jeet Kune Do
Credit: BruceLee.com
Jeet Kune Do (JKD) is a self-defense system founded by the legendary martial artist and actor Bruce Lee. The system resembles MMA fighting to a large degree because it is also a hybrid mix of striking, wrestling, and ground fighting.
Jeet Kune Do, which means “the way of the intercepting fist,” teaches the most direct and simple way to intercept attacks.
But what really separates JKD from other martial arts is this: Its philosophy is to encourage students to develop adaptability by studying other arts and incorporating effective techniques, rather than limiting themselves to only what is taught within JKD’s fundamental techniques.
Overall, JKD is a highly effective all-around combat system that predates modern MMA, but it has been studied primarily by martial arts enthusiasts and not the general public.
Most people know Judo as a popular Olympic sport, well spread worldwide. However, let’s not forget that Judo techniques also work well in self-defense situations. Despite being designed as a sport by Kano Jigoro, the concept of Judo transitions well into real-life combat, which is one of the reasons why this Japanese art is also present in modern MMA.
Judo originates from Jujutsu, and it primarily focuses on standup grappling. The main objective is to close the distance, get a hold of the opponent, secure a strong grip and position, manipulate their weight and balance, and throw them on the ground. Throws are the main aspect of Judo because this move brings you the most points according to the rule set, and a single well-executed throw wins you a match.
But there is also the ground-fighting aspect, where you must subdue the opponent with pins, holds, joint locks, and choke holds. These are all battle-proven techniques you may find in other effective martial arts, such as Brazilian jiu-jitsu or Sambo. The key emphasis in Judo is on sparring, or “randori,” allowing for extensive practice of each move to develop muscle memory.
In self-defense, Judo works best at close range and in closed spaces such as a bar, hall, or room where the attacker doesn’t have much space to maneuver. This enables you to quickly get a hold of them and throw them to the ground. It is incredibly difficult to defend against a skilled Judoka once they have gained control, especially if the attacker has no grappling experience.
Judo received considerable attention when MMA fans saw Ronda Rousey, the former UFC women’s champion, use the Judo hip toss to quickly throw her opponents to the ground, often following up with submission moves to win the fight easily. Despite being a progenitor of BJJ and a proven effective grappling art in MMA fighting, there has been little demand to learn Judo by the public.
Savate is a striking martial art developed in France that primarily focuses on boxing and kicking techniques. Although Savate is a practical system, it has been overshadowed by far more popular striking arts like Dutch-style kickboxing and Muay Thai. As a result, people often overlook Savate when discussing all-around striking arts.
The word Savate translates to “old shoe or boot,” as all fighters must wear specially designed boots while training or competing. Initially, Savate was designed as a self-defense method people trained in to learn how to protect themselves on the streets of Paris and Marseille.
Savate fight
Apart from punches and kicks, the learning curriculum includes knee and elbow strikes, various types of sweeps and throws, and dirty fighting moves like headbutts. However, modern Savate practice emphasizes competition, where athletes use only punches and kicks.
Luta Livre is a martial art created by Euclydes Hatem in Brazil that is primarily a grappling art that draws inspiration from catch wrestling (submission wrestling) and Kosen Judo.
Although it bears visual similarities to BJJ and Judo, the key difference with Luta Livre is its emphasis on wrestling techniques, a more aggressive approach, and the inclusion of ground striking. These features make Luta Livre much more versatile and effective than many other grappling arts.
Luta Livre was a popular martial art in Brazil up until the 1990s, which was a moment when its main rival, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, began to rise. The dominance of BJJ-based fighters in the early UFC resulted in a significant surge of interest in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu worldwide, completely overshadowing any interest in Luta Livre.
Therefore, despite its proven effectiveness, Luta Livre has yet to receive the same level of recognition outside of Brazil, where it originated.
1. Krav Maga
Despite its popularity and respect within law enforcement and military communities, Krav Maga has yet to pique the general public’s interest. When people seek to improve their self-defense skills, many opt for anything but Krav Maga because they simply do not know much about it.
Krav Maga is a no-frills self-defense system developed in the 1950s for the Israeli military to enhance their soldiers’ fighting abilities. Since Krav Maga is based entirely on self-defense with no rules, practitioners train for real-life situations. There are no Krav Maga competitions as the focus is on practicality and effectiveness in real life. Krav Maga includes techniques from Judo, Aikido, Karate, and boxing.
Krav Maga students learn conventional martial arts techniques such as how to punch, kick, use elbows and knees, grapple, and fight on the ground. On top of that, they learn proper self-defense tactics and how to deal with weapons and multiple attackers, and they spar and drill specific situations to learn how to apply these techniques in real-life scenarios.
Krav Maga also places significant emphasis on developing situation awareness as a crucial aspect of its training. Krav Maga instructors teach students how to stay calm, assess their situation, develop a strategy, and do anything in their power to defend themselves with literally anything nearby, such as a bottle, chair, or stick.
Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is a sport which has been growing over the last three decades. Its electrifying bouts have showcased a diverse range of different martial arts and martial artists from all over the world, who have wowed the crowd with their speed, technical brilliance and athleticism. It has also been a testing ground to find which martial arts styles are more efficient and effective than others.
Overall, when it comes to preparing for striking in MMA, fighters use techniques from boxing, Muay Thai, and kickboxing. In contrast, they mostly use wrestling and Brazilian jiu-jitsu techniques for ground fighting in MMA.
Let me now easily explain to you these martial arts styles used in MMA fighting and some crucial information about how fighters started mixing different martial arts. These martial arts combine striking and grappling techniques to create the versatile and powerful MMA fighters you see today. So let’s go!
When Did Fighters Start Mixing Martial Arts?
Although in the 1990s UFC fighters typically represented one fighting style, cross-training began to be seen more and more in the early ’00. Competitors began to recognize that if they were equipped with only one style, they could find themselves countered by a well-trained, knowledgeable opponent. Bringing in an additional style granted fighters a degree of unpredictability. If they found their takedowns stuffed, they could throw strikes into the mix.
Mixing striking with grappling led to the development of various combinations still seen in MMA. If a fighter was struggling to get a takedown, they could set it up with a punch or series of punches. A fighter with a strong overhand right could fake a takedown attempt and, with their opponent being likely to drop their hands in an attempt to stuff the feint, be able to land the punch with both power and devastating accuracy.
The concept of the “Hybrid” fighter was more thoroughly established in the mid to late ’00s, with men like Randy Couture and Chuck “The Iceman” Liddell showing how effective striking arts could be mixed with high-level wrestling.
Wrestlers might have also sought to pick up Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu skills to help them develop their arsenal of submissions and allow them to fight off their backs better. Conversely, the BJJ practitioners may have taken up wrestling or judo classes to ensure that they could take their opponents to the ground.
From the early to mid-2010s, there appeared to be more of a striking revolution, with fighters such as Conor McGregor showing how footwork and different patterns of movement could be even more unpredictable. For the fans, particularly the casual ones, striking is often much more exciting to watch than the technical grappling, which might appear to be aggressive ground-hugging to the untrained eye.
The modern MMA athlete is expected to be competent in almost all areas of the game, adopting MMA-specific training methodologies, strength, and conditioning. Fighters cross-train with the focus on creating a blend that suits their individual strengths.
What Martial Arts Are Used in MMA Fighting?
While MMA competitions have seen practitioners of many different arts test their abilities in rings and cages over the years, over time, certain martial arts have become favored for their ease of learning and efficiency in competition.
We’re going to break down which martial arts have shown the most dominance in MMA. As a general rule, the martial arts practiced in the UFC fall into two categories: striking and grappling.
Most Commonly Used Striking Arts in MMA
The three most commonly used striking martial arts in MMA are boxing, Muay Thai, and kickboxing.
Boxing
Almost every fighter, whether predominantly a wrestler or striker, will train in western boxing to some level. This is in part due to the fact that boxing strikes are so efficient both inside and outside of the clinch and because boxing teaches intelligent distance management and head movement. Simply put, no other combat art teaches better hand striking than boxing does.
As stated by Conor McGregor’s striking coach, Owen Roddy, roughly 80% of all strikes thrown in MMA are punches, with kicks making up the majority of the remaining 20%. For this reason, boxing has become an essential component of MMA training to enhance hand striking skills.
Muay Thai
Muay Thai is the second most commonly practiced striking art because it specializes in low kicks, knees, elbows, and clinching techniques on top of punches.
Since MMA rules allow knee strikes, low kicks, elbow strikes, and clinching techniques, all fighters train in Muay Thai to learn the proper execution of these strikes to enhance their fighting arsenal and increase their chances of winning. This not only makes a fighter more versatile but more unpredictable, too.
Kickboxing
Kickboxing, a combat sport derived from a combination of Kyokushin Karate and Muay Thai, has produced numerous UFC champions renowned for their kickboxing prowess, including Michael Bisping, Alex Pereira, and Israel Adesanya. Like boxing, kickboxing can equip a fighter with great footwork and distance management, and while it may not have knees or elbow techniques, it has a greater focus on different kicks.
Credit: via IG @peteraertsofficial
These kicks might include spinning kicks, question mark kicks, hook kicks, axe kicks, heel kicks, or jumping kicks, and while they might exist in Muay Thai, they are rarely focused on due to their perceived inefficiency in the sport.
Most Commonly Used Grappling Arts in MMA
Wrestling
As an Olympic sport, it has a history that stretches back to 776 BC. Today, wrestling is considered the most dominant martial art that is used in MMA. Good wrestling training can help a fighter take down their opponent to the ground, forcing them to fight off their back, significantly limiting their ability to strike back, and improving their probability of winning a fight.
You often see high-level strikers in the UFC struggle against high-level wrestlers. As an example, during the fight at UFC 267, Li Jingliang, a highly skilled striker, faced off against Khamzat Chimaev, a highly skilled wrestler. In the fight, Khamzat quickly took Jingliang down to the ground, where Jingliang was unable to fight back or move, giving Khamzat en route to easy victory via rear-naked choke.
https://youtu.be/r1u2oiZn77E?si=aY4LUFzRPXRrKQ6K
Wrestling training is some of the most grueling, militant, and aggressive training of all martial arts. Those who dedicate themselves develop incredible strength, stamina, speed, and tenacity with a comparatively low risk of injury compared to striking arts.
In the US and Russia, wrestling training might start at the elementary school level, with children as young as 4 or 5 learning basic techniques.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), which completely dominated the early years of MMA and gave rise to the UFC, is a grappling art that has continued to evolve since its inception in the 20th century.
BJJ is derived from Judo and Japanese Jiu-Jitsu, which preceded it, but also takes some techniques from catch and freestyle wrestling.
What makes Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu particularly effective is the numerous submission holds and a particular focus on the guard position (see the video clip below). The guard position is a defensive position that allows a grappler to fight off of their back, either allowing them to sweep or submit their opponents.
BJJ world champion Gordon Ryan describes how to fight from the guard position.
While fewer champions have BJJ as their base martial art, almost all MMA fighters will incorporate BJJ training into their schedules. This even includes wrestlers who may, despite being able to control their opponents in the clinch or in a top position, may not have the same ground-fighting skills to get back to a dominant position or onto their feet if they themselves are taken down.
There has been an explosion of BJJ gyms open all over the world, and training has made it incredibly accessible for the average person in many parts of the globe. This accessibility has allowed many fighters to add BJJ to their arsenal.
The Rest of the Other Martial Arts
In the early days, there was a much wider range of martial arts practiced, but this range has greatly diminished over time. Outside of the above-mentioned grappling and striking arts, there are a number of lesser-seen martial arts.
The Japanese art and sport of Judo has been part of various fighter’s training regimes, but few fighters have come from it. Despite this, the sport of women’s MMA would not be where it is today if it weren’t for former Olympian and current WWE wrestler Ronda Rousey. Rousey’s ability to hip toss then armbar her opponents through her high-level grappling skills allowed her to become one of the most dominant champions of all time.
Various high-level fighters have showcased their Karate skills. These include former light heavyweight champions Lyoto Machida and Chuck Liddell, who practice Shotokan Karate and American Kenpo, respectively, former middleweight champion Robert Whittaker, who practiced Goju-Ryu and Hapkido as a child, and high-ranked welterweights, such as fan favorites Steven Wonderboy Thompson, Michelle Waterson and Michel Pereira. Let’s not forget arguably the greatest of all time, George Saint Pierre, being a black belt in Kyokushin karate.
Other high-level strikers may have originally come from Taekwondo backgrounds – another candidate for GOAT status, former middleweight champion Anderson Silva, is a black belt in Taekwondo. Rose Namajunas, Anthony Pettis, and Valentina Shevchenko all trained in Taekwondo before studying other arts.
The Russian art of Sambo, which mixes Judo techniques, striking, and wrestling, has produced numerous champions, including Fedor Emelianenko and Dagestani wrestlers – Khabib Nurgamedov and Islam Makhachev, to name just a few.
Can You Use Any Types of Martial Arts in MMA?
You can use any martial art if you follow the Unified Rules of Mixed Martial Arts. As such, fighters in MMA can use any martial art, but they use the striking and grappling arts that have been proven effective in combat situations. Obscure martial arts are far less commonly used.
Some martial arts appear to have unrealistic techniques, and others have no full contact live sparring, which ultimately makes them less applicable in the cage. Forms-based or dance-orientated martial arts are particularly limited in their scope of use in the cage.
What Martial Arts Are Not Allowed in MMA?
Almost any martial art can be used in MMA, but there are certain martial arts or combat systems that cannot be used in MMA because these arts mainly focus on techniques that are banned in MMA.
As MMA is a sport, headbutts, minor joint manipulation, fish hooking, groin strikes and eye gouges are all banned. To name a few, Krav Maga, Pencak Silat, and Muay Boran are all arts that have these banned techniques as part of their syllabus that cannot be used in MMA. These martial arts are designed for battlefield or self-defense scenarios, which involve banned attacks.
Weapons based martial arts such as fencing, Historical European Martial Arts, Kendo, Eskrima also cannot be used in MMA as the sport allows unarmed hand to hand combat only.
Can Krav Maga Be Used in MMA?
Krav Maga isn’t a sport used in Mixed Martial Arts competitions. This is because it’s a self-defense system focusing on practical and efficient techniques for defending oneself in real-life situations such as on the street, bar, or even on the battlefield.
Although Krav Maga may incorporate boxing techniques, knees, elbows, and leg kicks seen in Muay Thai, Krav Maga has no rule set, and practitioners will also use illegal attacks – eye gouges and groin strikes to immobilize attackers or allow the user to escape.
Krav Maga classes are often designed to instill students with a greater sense of situational awareness—ways to prevent conflict from escalating than fighting in rule-based competitions. Therefore, Krav Maga just doesn’t fit in MMA competition.
Are There Kung Fu Fighters in MMA?
The phrase Kung Fu is a misused phrase some people use to describe Chinese martial arts. In its traditional sense, “kung fu” translates to “skill achieved through hard work and effort,” and the word “wushu” is more commonly used in China to describe martial arts.
There are various wushu fighters who compete in MMA, but rather than being Shaolin monks or those practicing some mystical “Tiger Style” you might see in a ’70s Hong Kong action film or mentioned in a Wu-Tang Clan song, these fighters display high-level use of Sanda or Sanshou – a full contact sport martial art akin to kickboxing with takedowns and throws integrated into the art.
Martial artists such as former Strikeforce middleweight champion Cung Le and UFC women’s strawweight champion Zhang Weili have been associated with the Chinese arts.
Throughout the years, many fighters have come and gone from the UFC. Occasionally, fighters who were once released from the promotion are re-signed, provided that they maintained a positive professional relationship with the organization.
And there are some cases where fighters are banned from the UFC, with no chance of ever signing again in the foreseeable future. With that, one can’t help but wonder what grave mistake led to their permanent ban from the UFC.
Many believe in second chances and redemption, but why were these fighters permanently banned? Let’s find out what they did!
Paul Daley
Photo courtesy of UFC
Paul Daley is one of the top welterweights who actually became well known while fighting for “Strikeforce” and “Bellator.” He got banned for life for the unfortunate incident he caused at UFC 113 in Montreal in 2010 against Josh Koscheck.
Daley was coming off two back-to-back KO finishes, and many people saw him as the future welterweight world champion. The hype behind this bout was massive, mainly because there was a big rivalry and a lot of back-and-forth trash talk between these two.
During their fight, Daley lost his temper in the first round when Koscheck motioned to be hit with an illegal knee to the groin. Koscheck was then given time to recover.
The fight would later continue, and Koscheck would then go on to dominate the match from the top position, utilizing high-level wrestling, while Daley was clearly looking desperate and frustrated at the bottom.
At the end of the last round, Daley went up to Koscheck, but instead of shaking his hand, he unexpectedly hit him with a punch. The referee, Dan Miragliotta, promptly intervened and held Daley against the fence to prevent any further harm. After the incident, UFC president Dana White commented on Paul Daley’s unsportsmanlike conduct.
“I don’t care if [Daley] fights in every show all over the world and becomes the best, and everybody thinks he is the pound-for-pound best in the world,” White fumed afterward. “He will never fight in the UFC again.”
Following his release from the UFC, Daley went on to participate in multiple promotions, including Strikeforce and BAMMA. In 2015, he signed with Bellator MMA and became one of their most popular fighters. Despite his success and marketability as a fighter, he was never given the opportunity to return to the UFC.
Rousimar Palhares is undoubtedly among the best grapplers in MMA history. However, despite his success in the MMA world, he has a reputation for being very unsportsmanlike. Considering his misconduct inside the cage, this is not a big surprise, which left him banned from the UFC for life.
The Brazilian was a master in using his incredible athleticism and BJJ skills to take his opponents down and submit them without much resistance. However, for whatever reason, he had a tendency to hold on to submission long after the opponent tapped out and, in some cases, even after the referee stepped in and told him to stop.
His first significant infraction came in 2010 at UFC 111 when he caught Tomasz Drawl into a knee bar, which is, by the way, one of the most dangerous submissions because it can easily result in fractures and torn ligaments.
Despite Drawl urgently tapping and screaming in pain, Palhares refused to let go of the knee bar until the referee physically forcefully separated his hand from Drawl’s leg. Palhares received considerable backlash from the media and fans after the fight, along with a 90-day suspension for not letting go of the submission after the initial stoppage.
After receiving public backlash and serving a lengthy suspension, one would expect Palhares to have learned from his mistakes. However, in 2013, at UFC Fight Night 29, he repeated the same mistake two years later against Mike Pierce.
During the fight, the Brazilian managed to catch Peirce in a heel hook submission 30 seconds into the fight. But again, Palhares would not release the submission hold even after Pierce urgently tapped eight times while screaming in pain. This led the referee to forcefully stop the fight immediately.
The next day, UFC president Dana White announced Palhares had been removed from their roster for repeated unsportsmanlike conduct and implied he would never fight in the UFC again.
Darrick Minner had a few good showings in the UFC, but most fans will recall him and his coach, James Krause, for their involvement in a 2022 betting scandal that caused a complete overhaul of the UFC betting policy.
Minner’s coach, James Krause, was heavily into betting on MMA fights, and he even created a large online community of passionate gamblers. He used to make a lot of money by selling his tips, analysis, and information related to fighters competing on the card.
However, the betting scandal broke out shortly after the UFC Fight Night 214, where Minner lost to Shayilan Nuerdanbieke after Minner injured his knee in the first round. The bout lasted just over a minute before Nuerdanbieke emerged victorious through TKO.
During the bout, the trouble started for Minner when his leg kick injured himself, rendering him immobile. Nuerdanbieke then delivered the final elbow strikes to finish the match.
It was later discovered that Minner had an undisclosed knee injury at the time of the fight, which is likely to have contributed to his early defeat.
But the real problem was that there were suspicious betting line movements among sportsbooks when Minner suddenly became a large betting underdog in the final hours before the fight.
The Nevada Athletic Commission suspended Minner and Krause indefinitely, and banned them from attending or participating in UFC events. Additionally, they are under criminal investigation by the FBI. Their suspicious betting activity led to Minner’s permanent release from the UFC in the end.
Jason High
Photo courtesy of UFC
Jason High first fought under the UFC banner in 2010 when he lost to Charlie Brenneman and was immediately released from the company shortly after. He bounced back by scoring seven straight wins across different promotions, such as Strikeforce, to convince the UFC matchmakers to give him another chance.
After going 2–1 in his second stint with the UFC, he faced the former champion Rafael Dos Anjos, where he made a mistake that cost him a UFC career.
It all happened in the second round when Dos Anjos managed to connect with a big right hand. Jason crumbled down to the canvas, clearly rocked, and then the referee stopped the match with around 90 seconds left on the clock.
Jason quickly stood up to dispute the stoppage, showing his displeasure towards the referee, Kevin Mulhall. However, he went a step too far by shoving the referee, which was very unprofessional.
After publicly apologizing for his misconduct on social media, Jason High’s apology was deemed insufficient and too late. Consequently, Dana White, the head of the UFC, decided to permanently remove him from the roster.
“That Jason High kid got up and pushed a referee – he’s cut,” White said. “I’m going to cut him. I look at that the way [Paul] Daley put his hands on his opponent after a fight was over. You don’t ever, ever f——- touch a referee, ever. You’re done here. He’s been apologizing on Twitter, but he’s done.”
UFC aimed to send a clear message to all fighters: respecting the referee is crucial, even if they disagree with them, and there will be grave consequences if a fighter physically assaults a referee.
Although he is a famous WWE wrestler, Matt Riddle was once a promising UFC prospect. He got into the UFC through the “Ultimate Fighter” show back in 2008, and in the next 5 years, he would compete 13 times inside the octagon. Between 2012 and 2013, he went on to win 4 fights in a row.
But his rise would come to a screeching stop when the UFC decided to ban him for life. Technically, Riddle has not been officially banned for life, but UFC boss Dana White stated he would never be back.
The reason was the fact that Riddle tested positive for cannabis in two out of his last four fights against Chris Clements and Che Mills. Although the USADA and Athletic Commissions later changed their stance on cannabis, testing positive for cannabis back then was a serious violation, especially if an athlete failed two tests in the same year.
Riddle was banned from the UFC after making provocative claims about why he smokes cannabis regularly, which enraged Dana White.
“Everybody’s going to have an excuse of why they were cut. Matt Riddle did an interview before that fight where he said ‘I smoke weed so that I don’t beat my children’ then he tests positive for it. He’s a f—king moron,” White said following the UFC 158 pre-fight press conference.
“That’s why he’s not here. He’s cut because he’s a moron.”
Overall, Riddle was a promising prospect in the welterweight division and a highly talented wrestler, so it’s a shame that he wasn’t able to showcase his full potential. After being fired from the UFC, Matt Riddle turned to professional wrestling, where he later signed with the premiere promotion, WWE.
Thiago Silva
Photo courtesy of UFC
Thiago Silva was a promising UFC prospect who was never in a boring fight. But just as he started to rise in 2013, his career would get destroyed following a serious incident he had in Florida.
The SWAT Team of the Broward County Sheriff’s Office arrested Silva at his home after he allegedly drove to BJJ coach Popovich’s place and threatened Thaysa Kamiji, who is Thiago’s ex-wife, and Popovich with a handgun.
After the incident, Thiago was released by the UFC and Dana White stated that Silva would never compete in the UFC again. However, the judge in Florida dismissed all charges against Silva later on, citing a lack of evidence. The UFC also rectified their decision to let go of Thiago by reinstating him.
Thiago Silva’s comeback to the UFC was brief as the organization terminated his contract again after incriminating video footage surfaced, showing him involved in an assault. Despite these legal issues, Silva continued to compete in other promotions like KSW and Eagle FC. In 2017, he claimed the vacant ACB light heavyweight championship.
Wanderlei Silva is the legend of PRIDE FC and is widely regarded as one of the most aggressive fighters of all time. He received a lifetime ban from the UFC in 2016. Here’s the story.
In 2013, Silva’s career was on the rise again when he knocked out Brian Stann in Japan. He was then given the opportunity to coach the “Ultimate Fighter” show alongside his rival, Chael Sonnen.
However, Silva was pulled from the fight with Sonnen because he first failed to submit an application to fight in the state of Nevada. But the bigger problem was the fact that Silva fled from the random USADA drug test, which is a severe violation.
In September 23, 2014, Silva received an unexpected lifetime ban from the Nevada State Athletic Commission. But a different judge overturned the lifetime ban in 2015.
Later on, Silva found himself in a heated conflict with the UFC when he made complete false allegations about the organization’s past fight-fixing. The UFC immediately took legal action against Silva for attacking their integrity and reputation.
Silva later retracted his allegation and issued an apology but was ultimately released from his UFC contract in the end.
Ruslan Magomedov
Photo courtesy of UFC
Ruslan Magomedov was promoted as the next big fighter from Dagestan, and he certainly had all the skills needed to reach the top of the UFC. At the time, Magomedov record was 3–0 with the UFC, and the hype around him just started to grow.
However, his UFC career was cut short by multiple doping violations, which resulted in his release from the UFC in 2019.
In 2016, the USADA came out stating that Magomedov tested positive for ostarine, which resulted in him receiving a two-year suspension from competition. The suspension expired in 2018, and Magomedov was expected to make a highly anticipated return. However, on Oct. 10, 2018, he tested positive for metabolites of an anabolic steroid, resulting in his second anti-doping violation.
In April 2019, he committed another violation when he refused to take the out-of-competition test, equivalent to failing the drug test. As a result of the third violation, Ruslan Magomedov received a lifetime ban from USADA, effectively ending his career with the UFC permanently.
Magomedov would then sign with the Russian ACA promotion in late 2019, but he didn’t manage to achieve much success in the following years. Ultimately, it’s fair to say that PEDs destroyed Magomedov, whom many people considered of championship caliber.
After putting together an undefeated record of 7 wins while competing on the regional circuit, Jennifer Gonzalez was very eager to become the first Chilean woman to compete in the UFC octagon. However, her dream was dashed to pieces a week before the UFC Fight Night 202 event when she got pulled out from her first fight against Josiane Nunes.
The reason was due to a bizarre incident that took place when Gonzalez met with USADA agents. When the USADA agents showed up at the Gonzalez gym to collect her sample, she requested a few minutes to put away her dogs.
Gonzalez was informed that she could not leave the agents’ sight, but she still left their sight despite the USADA agents’ warnings. Upon her return, she was informed that USADA would sanction her for hiding.
So technically, her UFC career ended before it could even start, which is sad considering that she is a very talented fighter who could have been a major force to be reckoned with.
Jonathan Koppenhaver, AKA War Machine
Koppenhaver earned his UFC contact through “Ultimate Fighter” season six, where he was a member of Team Serra. He would score an impressive KO win in his debut before dropping a decision to Yoshiyuki Yoshida at UFC 84, and this was the last UFC fans saw of him because he got released shortly after.
Joe Silva, the UFC matchmaker at the time, offered Koppenhaver a fight against Brandon Wolff, but he refused and engaged in a major feud with Silva.
Despite being given an ultimatum to either accept the fight offer or not fight at all, Koppenhaver played hardball by refusing to fight and requesting a different opponent.
Around the same time, Koppenhaver would also make very controversial comments related to the death of the former UFC fighter, Evan Tanner, who tragically passed away. Koppenhaver later retracted his comments, though. Amid controversy, Koppenhaver was released from the UFC contract.
Koppenhaver has competed in Bellator MMA after getting cut from the UFC. Koppenhaver later made another headline outside the MMA when he was given a life sentence in prison for brutally assaulting his ex-girlfriend.
Credit: We thank James Turner, IKTA European Full Contact Kickboxing Champion and JKD Expert, for sharing his expert knowledge of JKD with our readers.
Many martial arts styles are available to choose from if you are interested in learning to protect yourself or engage in a challenging sport. Jeet Kune Do (JKD) is a martial art you may have encountered, but you may be unaware of its origins, development, and effectiveness. Choosing a martial art requires careful investigation into its philosophy and techniques to find the right combat form for your needs.
Jeet Kune Do is a modern martial art created by Bruce Lee in the 1960s. The style is more than a fighting technique; it is a philosophy allowing for freedom of expression and developing a personal style that works for you. It is ideal for self-defense since it was created primarily for this purpose.
Jeet Kune Do is an interesting martial art in that it is a relatively young fighting style compared to other martial arts with centuries of history. What does this say about the Jeet Kune Do as a fighting style and a philosophy, and should you consider training in this martial art? We will find out all this and more as we explore the origins, methodology, and mindset behind Jeet Kune Do.
History of Jeet Kune Do
Jeet Kune Do is a modern martial arts philosophy and fighting style created by Bruce Lee, a renowned martial artist, actor, and martial arts movie producer/writer/director. It was developed in the 1960s as a response to the perceived limitations and constraints of traditional martial arts.
Lee believed in the importance of being adaptable and free-flowing in combat, which is why he created Jeet Kune Do as a way to express oneself without boundaries or restrictions.
“Research your own experience. Absorb what is useful. Reject what is useless. Add what is essentially your own. “
– Bruce Lee
Why did Bruce Lee develop Jeet Kune Do?
Jeet Kune Do was born out of Bruce Lee’s desire to create a martial art that broke away from traditional constraints and embraced a more fluid and dynamic approach to combat. It was not just about physical techniques but also about a philosophy that transcended the boundaries of martial arts.
Bruce Lee believed that the best way to fight was to be formless, to adapt to any situation, and to use the most efficient techniques. He emphasized the importance of self-expression and constantly evolving one’s skills.
Jeet Kune Do’s training principles revolve around simplicity, directness, and personal growth. It is not bound by rigid techniques but rather encourages practitioners to explore and develop their own unique style. This evolution makes Jeet Kune Do a living art, constantly adapting and growing along with its practitioners.
Here is a summary of what we have learned about Jeet Kune Do and its fundamental principles.
Reasons behind creation
Philosophy
Technique development
Escape traditional constraints.
Fluid and dynamic approach
Emphasizes self-expression
Break away from limitations.
Adaptability to any situation
Encourages personal growth
Explore new possibilities.
Efficient and effective techniques
Constantly evolving and adapting.
How does Jeet Kune Do differ from traditional arts?
To understand the uniqueness of Jeet Kune Do, we must explore the martial arts world of the 1960s. During this time, Bruce Lee conceived the idea of Jeet Kune Do.
Most of the martial arts available at that time were old-world arts steeped in history, tradition, and strict rules and regulations.
Bruce Lee trained in several of these traditional martial arts styles and found that each one had limitations that affected the style’s effectiveness and limited his expression as a martial artist. The traditional arts had to be practiced within the bounds of the established code. There was no room for innovations and exploration of new techniques.
Bruce recognized that each style had strong points and weaknesses, and by combining the strengths of various fighting styles and leaving out the parts that didn’t work, he could create a more effective and dynamic fighting style better oriented to self-defense in the real world.
Here are four key points to help us grasp the birth and essence of this martial art and understand its uniqueness:
Birth of Jeet Kune Do: JKD was created due to Bruce Lee’s dissatisfaction with the limitations of traditional martial arts.
Creation of Jeet Kune Do: Bruce Lee developed JKD as a complete system incorporating techniques from various martial arts disciplines.
Effectiveness of Jeet Kune Do: JKD is built on simplicity and directness, focusing on effective real-life techniques.
Difference between Jeet Kune Do and Kung Fu: JKD differs from traditional Kung Fu in its emphasis on individual expression, adaptability, and simplicity.
In understanding the creation of Jeet Kune Do, one must recognize Bruce Lee’s vision for a martial art that transcended boundaries and embraced the fluidity and simplicity of combat.
The core principles of Jeet Kune Do
To truly understand Jeet Kune Do, you need to be aware that it is a martial arts philosophy and combat style developed by Bruce Lee. It is not just about fighting but also about personal growth and self-expression.
BRUCE LEE’S CORE SYMBOL This symbol represents four stages of cultivation 1. Partiality: The Running to Extremes 2. Fluidity: The Two Halves of One Whole 3. Emptiness: The Formless Form 4. Jeet Kune Do Credit: brucelee.com
Jeet Kune Do is built upon core principles such as simplicity, directness, and non-classical form. It emphasizes efficiency and effectiveness in combat, using only what is necessary and discarding the rest.
James “The Dragon” Turner is an IKTA Professional Full Contact Kickboxing Champion. A lifelong Bruce Lee fan, James trained formally in Jeet Kune Do for several years and achieved the high rank of Phase Three (Level II) under Sifu Ian Mudie & the late Sigung Dave Carnell. As he explains the core principles of Jeet Kune Do:
“Jeet Kune Do encompasses Bruce Lee’s personally held beliefs and philosophies regarding martial arts, which were revolutionary and would affect the martial arts world forever more. Jeet Kune Do emphasizes simplicity and directness.
The shortest distance between two points is a straight line, and Bruce Lee was concerned with maximizing fighting effectiveness through ‘economy of motion’: attacking an opponent as quickly, powerfully, and ‘directly’ as possible while avoiding wasting energy through inefficient techniques or movements.
Bruce Lee considered ‘interception’ – the ability to land a blow on an opponent as they are trying to land on you – a high level of martial artistry that can cause significant damage to an opponent, which is why interception is a cornerstone of JKD and is indeed ‘in the name’: Jeet Kune Do translates to “The Way Of The Intercepting Fist.”
James “The Dragon” Turner – IKTA Pro Full Contact Kickboxing Champion.
The training methods in Jeet Kune Do focus on developing speed, power, and flexibility. The philosophy of Jeet Kune Do encourages practitioners to be adaptable and to continuously evolve their skills. Bruce Lee himself was a famous practitioner of Jeet Kune Do, and his impact and legacy continue to inspire martial artists worldwide.
We can summarize Jeet Kune Do for the purpose of defining the style by condensing it into principles and methods, as depicted in the table below.
Principles
Training Methods
Simplicity
Speed
Directness
Power
Non-classical form
Flexibility
Adaptability
Continuous improvement
Efficiency
Jeet Kune Do, as a non-traditional martial arts philosophy and fighting style, transcends traditional boundaries, empowering individuals to express themselves through combat. It is a path of self-discovery and personal growth, where practitioners strive to embody core principles such as simplicity, directness, and non-classical form.
Training in Jeet Kune Do involves developing speed, power, and flexibility through various methods. The philosophy of Jeet Kune Do goes beyond physical techniques, encouraging practitioners to be adaptable and continuously improve themselves.
Bruce Lee, the founder and a renowned practitioner of Jeet Kune Do, left a lasting impact on the martial arts world, inspiring countless individuals with his philosophy and approach. Jeet Kune Do’s legacy lives on, empowering individuals to unleash their true potential both in and out of the combat arena.
Is Jeet Kune Do A Martial Art Or System?
Jeet Kune Do is considered a martial art because it focuses on combat techniques and self-defense. As you embark on your journey to learn this art, you will discover numerous benefits that extend beyond physical training.
The training techniques of Jeet Kune Do are designed to develop your body, mind, and spirit holistically.
One of the core principles of Jeet Kune Do is simplicity. Bruce Lee believed in stripping away unnecessary movements and techniques, focusing only on what is effective and efficient. This philosophy is reflected in the techniques taught in Jeet Kune Do, which emphasize directness, economy of motion, and the use of the whole body in generating power.
Through the practice of Jeet Kune Do, you will develop a heightened sense of self-awareness and self-confidence. The philosophy behind Jeet Kune Do encourages students to be in the present moment and adapt to any situation.
This mindset helps in combat situations and daily life, enabling you to face challenges with a calm and centered approach. These aspects of Jeet Kune Do classify it definitively as a martial art rather than just a fighting system.
Is Jeet Kune Do Effective?
Many traditional martial arts have the reputation of being ineffectual in the real world as a form of practical self-defense. If you’re wondering about the effectiveness of Jeet Kune Do, rest assured that it is highly regarded for its practical and efficient combat techniques. Jeet Kune Do, or JKD as it is commonly known, is not just another martial art; it is a way of life, a philosophy that transcends the physical realm.
JKD is not about flashy moves or complicated techniques but about simplicity, directness, and adaptability.
Is JKD effective? Absolutely. Bruce Lee believed in using what works and discarding what doesn’t. JKD synthesizes different martial arts and combat systems, creating a style designed to be effective in real-life situations.
JKD emphasizes economy of motion, using the least effort to achieve maximum impact. JKD practitioners are trained to attack and defend simultaneously, seamlessly transitioning between offense and defense.
Is Jeet Kune Do Deadly?
Jeet Kune Do can certainly be deadly. The techniques are intended to incapacitate an opponent as quickly as possible, using power, speed, flexibility, and technique. The techniques taught can be delivered with enough power to be deadly, which is necessary in combat styles designed for self-defense.
While JKD can be deadly, its primary focus is self-defense and personal growth. JKD teaches you how to neutralize threats efficiently and effectively, to be aware of your surroundings, and to avoid unnecessary confrontations.
JKD is not just a martial art; it is a philosophy that can be applied to all aspects of life. Its simplicity, directness, and adaptability principles are timeless and can benefit almost anyone, regardless of age, gender, or physical ability.
What Fight Strategy Does Jeet Kune Do Specialize In?
JKD specializes in the concept of ‘intercepting fist,’ which means intercepting an opponent’s attack before it becomes fully executed. It emphasizes timing, speed, and footwork, enabling practitioners to strike first and disrupt their opponent’s rhythm.
Many traditional martial arts focus on certain fighting aspects, such as groundwork strikes or weapons. Jeet Kune Do does not specialize in one fight strategy but teaches techniques encompassing all these aspects. This gives the JKD student all the tools necessary to meet any situation presented and the ability to adapt, with the restrictions of focusing on a single fight strategy.
As IKTA Kickboxing Champion, James “The Dragon” Turner explains:
“It may not always be possible to directly intercept an opponent; some opponents are defensive and may not commit to an attack. Opponents can be offensive, defensive or counter-offensive.
Bruce Lee understood the nature of combat, and while he emphasized intercepting attacks, he didn’t limit himself to these tactics or to ‘any’ particular method of attack.
This is borne out in that, complementing the ‘Four Combat Ranges’ (Kicking, Punching, Trapping, Grappling), Jeet Kune Do details the ‘Five Ways Of Attack’: Single Angular/Direct Attack (SAA/SDA), Attack By Combination (ABC), Hand (Or Foot) Immobilization Attack (HIA), Progressive Indirect Attack (PIA) and Attack By Drawing (ABD).”
James “The Dragon” Turner – IKTA Pro Full Contact Kickboxing Champion.
What Is the Difference Between Jeet Kune Do and Kung Fu?
To understand the difference between Jeet Kune Do and Kung Fu, you’ll need to recognize that while Kung Fu encompasses a wide range of traditional Chinese martial arts styles, Jeet Kune Do is a philosophy and fighting concept developed by Bruce Lee.
With its rich history and diverse techniques, Kung Fu focuses on mastering specific styles such as Wing Chun or Shaolin. On the other hand, Jeet Kune Do emphasizes the individual’s expression and personal growth in combat. It is a philosophy that encourages adaptability and the abandonment of traditional forms.
In terms of techniques, Kung Fu places greater emphasis on elaborate movements, forms, and acrobatics. Jeet Kune Do, on the other hand, emphasizes simplicity and directness. It seeks to eliminate unnecessary movements and focuses on practical techniques intended for effectiveness in real-life situations.
Regarding philosophy, Kung Fu embodies traditional values, discipline, and respect for lineage. On the other hand, Jeet Kune Do encourages self-discovery, self-expression, and freedom from limitations. It is a philosophy that encourages continuous learning and adaptation.
In terms of training methods, Kung Fu often involves long hours of repetition, form practice (kata), and conditioning. Jeet Kune Do emphasizes functional training, sparring, and realistic combat scenarios.
Ultimately, both Kung Fu and Jeet Kune Do have unique self-defense approaches. When choosing the martial art that resonates with you, the key is understanding your personal goals and preferences.
What Is The Difference Between Jeet Kune Do And MMA?
Jeet Kune Do and MMA’s main difference is their approach to combat and training methods. While both disciplines focus on practicality and effectiveness, their philosophies and principles differ. Here are some key distinctions to consider:
Training methods: Jeet Kune Do emphasizes adaptability and flexibility, encouraging students to develop their own individual expressions of martial arts. MMA, on the other hand, follows a more standardized training approach, focusing on specific techniques and strategies.
Techniques comparison: Jeet Kune Do incorporates a wide range of effective techniques from various martial arts, including punches, kicks, trapping, and grappling. On the other hand, MMA primarily focuses on a combination of striking and grappling techniques, emphasizing competition.
Philosophy and principles: Jeet Kune Do follows the philosophy of simplicity, directness, and efficiency. It encourages practitioners to be like water, adapting to any situation. While valuing efficiency, MMA places a greater emphasis on competition and winning.
Jeet Kune Do and MMA use training equipment to enhance skills and conditioning. However, Jeet Kune Do places more emphasis on training with minimal equipment, focusing on developing reflexes and sensitivity.
When it comes to self-defense applications, Jeet Kune Do aims to provide practitioners with the ability to defend themselves in real-life situations, while MMA focuses more on competition and sport.
The main reason why Jeet Kune Do is not used extensively in MMA is that the style is not rules-based and encourages freedom to adapt techniques to situations rather than follow a rule book.
The focus for JKD is self-defense in the real world; the focus for MMA is rules-based competition as a sport rather than a fighting style for self-defense.
Despite its limited presence in MMA, Jeet Kune Do has had an important historical significance. Bruce Lee’s influence on martial arts is undeniable, and his creation of Jeet Kune Do challenged traditional martial arts conventions. While it may not be widely used in MMA, Jeet Kune Do continues to inspire pro fighters to explore new ways of thinking and training.
This is not to say that JKD principles and techniques cannot be used in MMA or in competition, as IKTA Kickboxing Champion, James “The Dragon” Turner explains:
“Jeet Kune Do can be expressed in MMA and all combat sports. As an international Kickboxing champion, I have been able to apply Jeet Kune Do, whether in terms of fighting principles and approach, or in terms of specific fighting techniques taught by Bruce Lee, in order to win professional title fights against world class opponents.
To us in the martial arts, Bruce Lee was like Albert Einstein; he was a genius and a revolutionary force. It would be wise for all martial artists to learn about Bruce Lee and to study his teachings”.
James “The Dragon” Turner – IKTA Pro Full Contact Kickboxing Champion.
Learning Jeet Kune Do typically takes several years of dedicated practice and study. It is not a martial art that can be mastered overnight but rather a lifelong journey of self-discovery and personal growth. As you embark on the JKD path, here is what you can expect:
Training duration: Jeet Kune Do is a complex and multifaceted martial art, and it takes time to develop proficiency in its various aspects. Expect to commit yourself to regular training sessions over an extended period to truly grasp its principles and techniques.
Skill progression: Learning Jeet Kune Do is a gradual process, with each step building upon the previous one. You will start with the basics, mastering the fundamental techniques and concepts, before progressing to more advanced techniques and strategies. Patience and perseverance are key as you steadily improve your skills.
Learning curve: Jeet Kune Do has a steep learning curve, challenging you both physically and mentally. It requires you to break free from preconceived notions and be open to new ideas and ways of moving. Embrace the journey, and you will constantly evolve as a martial artist.
Dedicated practice: To truly embody the principles of Jeet Kune Do, you must dedicate yourself to regular and focused practice. Through repetition and refinement, you will develop the muscle memory and instinctual reactions necessary to execute techniques effectively.
Instructor guidance: Having a knowledgeable and experienced instructor is invaluable in your journey to learn Jeet Kune Do. They will provide guidance, correction, and inspiration, helping you navigate the intricacies of the art and pushing you to reach your full potential.
Is Jeet Kune Do Still Popular and Relevant?
Jeet Kune Do (JKD) is still popular and relevant today, attracting individuals who seek a dynamic and practical approach to martial arts. Its influence on modern martial arts cannot be denied. JKD’s philosophy and principles, developed by the legendary Bruce Lee, emphasize simplicity, directness, and adaptability.
These principles have profoundly impacted self-defense techniques, promoting efficiency and effectiveness in real-life situations.
In JKD, training methods and drills are designed to cultivate a well-rounded martial artist. The focus is on developing attributes such as speed, timing, and sensitivity while also honing technical skills.
JKD practitioners engage in sparring, pad work, and other drills that simulate real combat scenarios. This comprehensive training approach prepares individuals for the unpredictable nature of street fights.
Beyond physical skills, JKD plays a significant role in personal growth and development. It encourages self-discovery, self-expression, and self-improvement. By embracing the philosophy of JKD, practitioners learn to transcend their limitations and unlock their true potential, both inside and outside the training environment.
IKTA Kickboxing Champion, James “The Dragon” Turner believes JKD will always have significant appeal:
“JKD is popular and relevant today because Bruce Lee remains a cultural icon and immensely popular. Therefore, there will always be interest in Jeet Kune Do. In terms of its relevance, Bruce Lee’s genius has fundamentally influenced the very ‘fabric’ of the martial arts as we know it today.
Bruce Lee spearheaded and encouraged independent thought, diligent research, and the cultivation of ‘oneself’ as a martial artist, and this is borne out in Jeet Kune Do, which philosophically goes way beyond the mere ‘mixing’ of the martial arts. Bruce Lee’s philosophy wasn’t merely to ‘copy’ and ‘mix’ but to ‘actualize’ oneself.”
James “The Dragon” Turner – IKTA Pro Full Contact Kickboxing Champion.
Who should learn JKD? Anyone who wants to develop practical self-defense skills, improve their physical fitness, and cultivate a strong mind-body connection. JKD is for those who seek personal growth, self-discipline, and a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.
If you’re looking for a martial art that emphasizes practicality and adaptability, JKD might be the perfect fit for you. Jeet Kune Do is a fighting style and a philosophy of self-expression and self-discovery.
Here are some key points to consider if you’re thinking about learning JKD:
Benefits of learning JKD: JKD teaches you how to think and react in a dynamic, unpredictable environment. It develops your reflexes, coordination, and mental agility. You’ll gain self-confidence and the ability to defend yourself effectively.
Physical fitness requirements for JKD: While JKD doesn’t have strict physical fitness requirements, being in good shape will enhance your training. Stamina, flexibility, and strength are important for executing techniques and maintaining endurance during sparring.
JKD training techniques and methods: JKD incorporates a blend of different martial arts styles, including boxing, Wing Chun, and fencing. It emphasizes simplicity, directness, and efficiency. You’ll learn striking, trapping, grappling, and weapons techniques through drills, sparring, and focus mitt training.
Famous practitioners of JKD: JKD was founded by Bruce Lee, the legendary martial arts practitioner and actor. Other famous practitioners include Dan Inosanto, Jerry Poteet, and Ted Wong. Their expertise and dedication have helped shape JKD into what it is today.
JKD’s influence on other martial arts: JKD has profoundly impacted the world of martial arts. It has influenced disciplines such as MMA, kickboxing, and Krav Maga, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and non-traditional training methods.
How Do You Learn Jeet Kune Do?
When it comes to training in Jeet Kune Do (JKD), there are several reputable martial arts schools and instructors that offer classes and workshops. These establishments are dedicated to upholding the principles and philosophy of Jeet Kune Do.
In your search for JKD training, you will come across a variety of training methods that focus on developing your physical, mental, and spiritual abilities. These methods may include drills, sparring, and conditioning exercises. Each instructor may have their unique approach, but the ultimate goal is to help you uncover your individual expression of JKD.
It is not advisable to attempt to learn JKD on your own, as it includes techniques from various martial arts that can be risky if not supervised by a professional instructor. Although it is possible to learn JKD without an instructor, it may be challenging to maintain a consistent training routine and acquire the necessary skills safely.
To help you find the right JKD school and instructor, here is a table highlighting six renowned establishments:
Comprehensive JKD training in the southwest of England
Conclusion
Jeet Kune Do is not just a fighting style but a philosophy and a way of life. It embodies the mindset of adaptability and self-expression, embracing simplicity and efficiency in combat. Its principles of drawing from other martial arts, discarding what is ineffective, and intercepting an opponent’s attack make it a highly effective and deadly fighting system.
Developed by Bruce Lee in the 1960s, Jeet Kune Do remains popular and relevant today. Anyone seeking personal growth, mental agility, and physical fitness should consider learning Jeet Kune Do. Embrace the way of the intercepting fist and unlock your true potential.
