In the sports world, UFC and MMA have notably made their mark. With new fighters and fans emerging often, it’s safe to say this sport has a bright future. Yet, there is still a bit of confusion around what they are.
Some fans that are new to the sport ask “what’s the difference between UFC and MMA?” or “Is UFC a Sport?” While the answer is not as complicated as you might think, it doesn’t hurt to know.
So if you are looking to solidify your fandom and understand MMA, you’re going to want to keep reading. Here’s everything you need to know about the differences between MMA and the UFC.
The Beginning of MMA
MMA was a concept are derived from boxing but the origins are really specific.
Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is a sport that combines all martial arts and combat sports allowing punching, kicking, elbows, knees, wrestling, and submissions. Essentially MMA is a sport that involves full contact. This also includes if fighters are standing or on the ground.
One of the first modern examples of Mixed Martial Art’s was the late great Muhammad Ali in 1976. Ali’s opponent was the famous professional Japanese wrestler Antonio Inoki.
Embed from Getty ImagesThey fought in a mixed rules match and created the groundwork for what MMA has become today. Across Japan and Brazil MMA was seen in organisations such as Vale Tudo. The goal was to have skilled fighters face each other in various MMA-style matches.
But, it wasn’t until 1993 that MMA would get its long-overdue notoriety.
The Start of UFC
The start of UFC is similar to MMA. The organisation promoted matches against people who had a variety of fighting styles. All centred around mixed martial arts, people with backgrounds in boxing and karate used their skills to determine which style of martial arts was the best.
One of the ways UFC gained the attention of fans is it began marketing itself as a sport where anything goes. Some fans were attracted to its brutal nature because there were only three rules. Fighters could not do groin strikes, bite, or gouge the eyes of their opponents.
UFC was also different in the fact that it didn’t have rounds as other fights did. When two fighters were in a match it was only called after one of them tapped out, one of them was knocked out, or the towel was thrown in. While a lot has changed since those times, some fans were initially turned off by the brutality of MMA.
But in 2001, Lorenzo Fertitta and his brother Frank would purchase UFC, and with the help of the new president Dana White, they would give the sport new image fans would come to enjoy. Once the Unified Rules of Mixed Martial Arts were established for the sport the rest was history.
Embed from Getty ImagesWhat’s the Difference Between UFC and MMA?
It’s important to know the backstory on the UFC as it will help you understand the difference between the two. While many ask if the UFC and MMA are the same, the answer is no.
MMA is the sport and UFC is the organisation that promotes MMA matches. They are not interchangeable, but they are a cohesive unit that has allowed this new level of fighting to flourish. With MMA events being held across multiple countries it’s easy to see the impact this sport has on the world.
There Is No UFC vs MMA, Only UFC, and MMA
Now that you understand the history of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) and how it relates to the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) you can use your knowledge to test other fans.
If you are looking to learn more about MMA and UFC matches or events contact us today!
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