Fight fans often share the costs of attending UFC pay-per-view events among themselves to lower overall expenses and create a unique, communal experience.
The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) began its existence within an eight-sided structure known as an octagon, where combatants square off. There were few rules and no rounds, allowing everything from groin punches to submissions to take place within its confines.
Origins
The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is the premiere organization for professional mixed martial arts (MMA). First founded in the United States in 1993 and currently headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada, UFC pits fighters from various disciplines against each other in head-to-head matches where victor can be determined either through submission, knockout or referee stoppage – and all fights take place inside an Octagon steel cage.
Early UFC tournaments were marked by few rules; low blows, hair pulling and head butts were legal at that time despite being brutal clashes; these events nevertheless proved very popular.
Later, the UFC introduced additional rules and regulations. With glove use and weight classes added as well as the ban of groin shots and headbutts banned, more fan-friendly fights ensued and this helped broaden its audience even further. Today, it is one of the fastest growing sports worldwide.
Rules
MMA rules are designed to protect fighter safety and ensure fair competition. They cover topics like weight classes, judging criteria and fouls. Since these rules are constantly being revised and altered, it is essential that fans and fighters alike become informed on how they work so as to be informed spectators or participants in an MMA fight.
As an example, it is prohibited to strike or knee a fighter on the ground while they are lying face down as this could result in serious spinal damage. Also prohibited is grabbing an opponent by the neck and slamming them on their head – while such moves might be exciting in Greco-Roman, Freestyle, or Sambo wrestling, it would be dangerous in real combat in UFC fights.
The Unified Rules of Mixed Martial Arts include a system for determining who wins an MMA fight, using factors like doctor reports and post-fight drug testing as measures to select winners. Furthermore, each fighter must undergo medical examination prior to each fight.
Payouts
While fighters like Conor McGregor and Ronda Rousey earn millions per fight, others struggle just to make ends meet. According to Bloody Elbow’s report, those at the bottom of UFC ranks receive much less compensation for their efforts inside the Octagon.
One fighter appearing on one UFC card might only make up to $10,000; on the other hand, those participating in two or more fights could potentially make over $200,000 per fight.
Champion fighters with a large fan following can expect at least half a million dollars per fight as guarantees, in addition to making considerable sums through endorsement deals and sponsorship.
Exciting Fights
Strikers or grapplers – UFC offers plenty of exciting fights that are sure to excite. Rivalry matches between strikers and grapplers keep fans on their toes; many even earned Hall-of-Fame recognition!
Royce Gracie found one of his toughest opponents yet when taking on Dan Severn early in his career as a champion. This back-and-forth battle showcased just how varied Gracie could be as a fighter.
Gaethje is one of those fighters you have to see live to believe. A legitimate contender at lightweight, he should remain competitive for some time to come. Facing Brundage who boasts some collegiate wrestling experience while being capable of competing at high levels in MMA competition should make for an entertaining bout for both athletes.