The Ultimate Beginner Guide
What is MMA?
Mixed martial arts (MMA) blends striking and grappling under one unified rule set. It is the fastest-growing combat sport in the world.
Definition
Core Concept MMA is a combat sport that allows the use of both striking (boxing, kicking) and grappling (wrestling, submissions), both standing and on the ground.
Unlike boxing, if a fighter is knocked down, the fight continues on the floor until a referee stoppage, submission, or the round ends.
Rules & Scoring
The 10-Point Must System
Three judges score each round. The winner of the round gets 10 points, the loser 9 (or 8 if dominated).
- Priority 1: Effective Striking & Grappling
- Priority 2: Aggression (only if P1 is equal)
- Priority 3: Cage Control (tie-breaker)
Fouls
- Eye poking or biting
- Groin strikes
- Strikes to the back of the head/spine
- Kicking a "downed" opponent in the head
- Grabbing the fence
Weight Classes
Athletes must weigh in at strictly defined limits the day before the fight.
Men
| Class | Weight |
|---|---|
| Flyweight | 125 lbs (56.7 kg) |
| Bantamweight | 135 lbs (61.2 kg) |
| Featherweight | 145 lbs (65.8 kg) |
| Lightweight | 155 lbs (70.3 kg) |
| Welterweight | 170 lbs (77.1 kg) |
| Middleweight | 185 lbs (83.9 kg) |
| Light Heavy | 205 lbs (93.0 kg) |
| Heavyweight | 265 lbs (120.2 kg) |
Women
| Class | Weight |
|---|---|
| Strawweight | 115 lbs (52.2 kg) |
| Flyweight | 125 lbs (56.7 kg) |
| Bantamweight | 135 lbs (61.2 kg) |
| Featherweight | 145 lbs (65.8 kg) |
Styles & Tactics
Striking
Boxing, Muay Thai, Karate. Using punches, kicks, elbows, and knees to damage the opponent.
Wrestling
Folkstyle, Greco-Roman, Judo. Taking the opponent to the ground and controlling where the fight takes place.
Grappling
BJJ, Catch Wrestling. Using joint locks and chokes to force a submission (tap out).
Understanding guard positions is key to following the ground game.
Training & Gear
MMA requires "cross-training" in multiple disciplines simultaneously.
Starter Kit
- Mouthguard (Custom fit recommended)
- Shin guards (for sparring)
- 16oz Boxing Gloves + 4oz MMA Gloves
- Rashguard & Board Shorts
Safety
While violent, MMA is statistically safer regarding brain trauma than boxing due to the lack of "standing 8 counts" (which allow concussed fighters to continue taking damage) and the ability to end fights via submission.
How to Watch
Look beyond the punches. Watch the footwork (who is controlling the center?) and the hand-fighting in the clinch. The fence is often used as a "third fighter" to trap opponents or help stand up.