Good Old Fisticuffs: Difference between revisions

* A mixed bag in the sport of [[Mixed Martial Arts]], which demystified most traditional martial arts and revealed them to be less effective than simple boxing and wrestling in a one-on-one fight. Being able to keep yourself at arms length from your opponent and knowing what to do when fighting on the ground did wonders in those early fights (about 75% of matches end up on the ground in some way). In early MMA bouts, many traditional martial artists quickly abandoned their styles' polished moves for wild haymakers and bull rushes. On the other hand, some traditional martial arts have proven effective in the sport, such as Muay Thai and wrestling, which are considered cornerstones of the sport.<ref>Brazilian jiu-jitsu is a mixed bag, as it originated from the Gracie family's adaptation of pre-World War II judo, and there are variations both in the teacher's style and in whether one is training for gi, no-gi, or MMA.</ref> The very specific reason that spinning back strikes are rare is inherent, the need to break line of sight ''and'' give up one's back just to build up velocity. Of course, like any sport there has to be some rules to protect real injury. Many practical ways to strike downed opponents are not legal and ramming opponents against objects like the provided metal cage are also illegal. Ultimately, the biggest contribution the sport has made is that no one technique is flawless and it encouraged fighters to at least learn the techniques of other styles in order to know how to combat them.

** See [http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q83/Mattiasblogger/UFC49/yveskojosh.gif this rare example] where ''both'' fighters, Yves Edwards and Josh Thomson, attempt unorthodox techniques.

** Machida vs. Shogun I on the other hand was an odd subversion of this trope, where at one point both fighters adopted traditional stances from their respective striking backgrounds. While many see Shogun as having won that fight, it should be noted that he had ''greatly'' adapted his style compared to his earlier days.

** In addition, "flashier" moves such as flying knees, spinning back kicks or spinning back fists, and exotic BJJ holds sometimes prove effective in competition, but also can backfire if not properly used. For this reason, fighters usually stick to basic, less risky moves.