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Hi connections ❤ Mixed martial arts (MMA) is a full-contact combat sport based on striking, grappling and ground fighting, incorporating techniques from various combat sports from around the world. The first documented use of the term mixed martial arts was in a review of UFC 1 by television critic Howard Rosenberg in 1993. During the early 20th century, various interstylistic contests took place throughout Japan and in the countries of the East Asia. At the same time, in Brazil, there was a phenomenon called vale tudo, which became known for unrestricted fights between various styles such as judo/Brazilian jiu-jitsu, catch wrestling/luta livre, Muay Thai, and capoeira. Another precursor to modern MMA was the 1976 Ali vs. Inoki exhibition bout (which ended in a draw after 15 rounds), fought between boxer Muhammad Ali and wrestler Antonio Inoki in Japan, where it later inspired the foundation of Shooto in 1985, Pancrase in 1993, and the Pride Fighting Championships in 1997. In the 1990s, the Gracie family brought their Brazilian jiu-jitsu style, first developed in Brazil from the 1920s, to the United States – which culminated in the founding of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) promotion company in 1993. The company held an event with almost no rules, mostly due to the influence of Art Davie and Rorion Gracie attempting to replicate vale tudo fights that existed in Brazil and would later implement a different set of rules (example: eliminating kicking a grounded opponent), which differed from other leagues which were more in favour of realistic, street like fights. Originally promoted as a competition to find the most effective martial arts for real unarmed combat, competitors from different fighting styles were pitted against one another in contests with relatively few rules. Later, individual fighters incorporated multiple martial arts into their style. MMA promoters were pressured to adopt additional rules to increase competitors' safety, to comply with sport regulations and to broaden mainstream acceptance of the sport. Following these changes, the sport has seen increased popularity with a pay-per-view business that rivals boxing and professional wrestling.

RIP Bellator (2008–2025) Bellator’s closure isn’t just the end of a promotion—it’s a stark reminder of what happens when organizations fail not only to adapt but to lead. Like Nokia’s CEO famously said in their final days, “We did nothing wrong, and still lost.” MMA, much like business and technology, punishes those who rest on their laurels. As a martial artist with 30 years of experience and a merchant banker’s perspective, I’ve seen this story repeat itself. MMA is a jealous sport, filled with egos. Senseis, refs, fighters, and even federation directors (who often lack a professional side to their organizations) all believe they hold the ultimate truth. Yet, the essence of MMA lies in never-ending evolution—those who fail to embrace this will ultimately find themselves obsolete. Bellator now joins the ranks of fallen promotions like XFC, and who knows what’s happening with Combate Americas? After M1 Global left the scene, One FC stepped in, yet similar systemic issues persist. Even though Bellator was bought out by PFL, which touts a “league-style platform,” it still misses a crucial component: the lack of real added value to amateur fighters. The system fails to create a new generation of professionals with the right mindset, leaving a significant gap in the sport's evolution. I remember speaking with the late Don José Sulaimán, then-president of the WBC, in 2012. When I asked who the WBC equivalent was in MMA, he responded, “My friends, the Fertittas at UFC.” That was a lightbulb moment. We explained that the UFC wasn’t the WBC; it was more like Golden Boy Promotions—a promotion where fighters only compete against their own lineup, and winners receive a promotion-specific belt. Our proposal? The World Mixed Martial Arts Council (WMMAC)—a governing body separate from promotions, designed to unify amateur and professional MMA rules globally while creating legitimate world rankings. Don José was so moved by the idea that he added it to the agenda for the WBC’s 2014 convention in Bangkok. We were ready. Everything was set. Unfortunately, Don José fell ill just before the event and passed away a few days later. His visionary support for the collaboration died with him. For the new leadership, the idea of uniting boxing and MMA was simply too unconventional to carry forward. The torch that Don José had lit was left extinguished. Bellator’s demise highlights the consequences of failing to lead. While I’ve always admired Dana White’s visionary leadership, the UFC operates on an entirely different level. No matter how hard others try to emulate it, the reality is simple: there’s only one McGregor, and there’s only one Dana. To the Bellator team: I wish you success in your future endeavors. This moment should serve as a reflection point for everyone in MMA—fighters, promoters, and leaders alike. MMA doesn’t need imitators. It needs leaders. The clock doesn’t stop ticking, and neither does the need for true leadership. #MMA #WBC #WMMAC #WMMAA

What Sets Intercepting Fist Championship (IFC) Apart? At IFC, we’re not just another MMA promotion—we’re a game-changer in the combat sports industry. Our mission is to bring a fresh, dynamic approach to the sport, creating a unique experience for both fighters and fans. Here’s what makes IFC stand out: 🔹 Innovative Ruleset: We’ve developed a progressive ruleset designed to increase excitement while enhancing fighter safety. Our focus is on creating action-packed bouts that keep fans on the edge of their seats while providing fighters with fair and transparent competition. Expect to see matches that push the boundaries of traditional MMA while respecting the integrity of the sport. 🔹 Style-Based Teams: In IFC, it’s not just about individual fighters—it's about team rivalries based on martial arts styles. Imagine top fighters from Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, Muay Thai, Boxing, and more, forming teams that compete across a season. This approach adds a whole new layer of strategy and storytelling, bringing fans deeper into the world of combat sports. It’s style vs. style, discipline vs. discipline. 🔹 Top Judokas Meet MMA Heavyweights: We’re introducing a new wave of competition by bringing some of the world’s elite judokas into the heavyweight division of MMA. This exciting crossover will showcase the power and technique of judo, a martial art that often goes underrepresented in major MMA promotions. Fans will witness judo’s tactical brilliance up against the world’s best heavyweights, blending the grace of throws with the brutality of knockout power. At IFC, our goal is to create a revolutionary platform where styles, athletes, and fans come together to celebrate the best of combat sports. We’re excited to share this journey with you. Stay tuned—this is only the beginning. #IFC #MMA #CombatSports #InnovativeMMA #Judo #MartialArts #TeamRivalries #FightForTheFuture *GIF footage is not the IFC*

*From the gladiators of ancient Rome to MMA champions: fighting as a timeless spectacle* Combat as a form of spectacle is nothing new. From the arena of the Colosseum to the octagons of the Ultimate Fighting Championship, the major league of MMA (mixed martial arts), mankind has always found fascination in a direct confrontation between two individuals. Gladiators were heroes and victims of a system that made fighting an entertainment. Many were slaves, but some fought voluntarily, attracted by the promise of glory, money or freedom. Their training in the ludus, the gladiatorial schools, was as rigorous as it was specialised, with masters honing techniques for swords, shields and spears. Fighting was not just about violence: it represented strategy, endurance and spectacle. The duels, often choreographed, were designed to bringing out the gladiator as an iconic figure, on the borderline between man and myth. MMA fighters fight in a different arena, the octagon, but some of the dynamics are similar. Born in the United States and inspired by the Brazilian Vale Tudo, the sport has undergone an extraordinary evolution: from the no-rules fights of the 1990s to a highly regulated system, inspired by disciplines such as judo, boxing and taekwondo. Surprisingly, it has dozens of infractions, codified in its Unified Rules: https://lnkd.in/dAKk-s_U: kicking a grounded opponent, use abusive language, timidity (refusing to engage), head butting or striking by a 12-6 elbow are all conducts prohibited by law. Less surprisingly, MMA has its own international federation, apart from major separate promoters. The IMMAF - International Mixed Martial Arts Federation born just on 2012 in Sweden has now its headquarter in Switzerland. MMA, just like gladiatorial games, is a spectacle. Of course, the stakes are different: no longer life or freedom, but prestige, career, prizes and title. However, the often exaggerated rivalries before the bouts and the spectacular moves echo the model of the gladiators who, with a glance or a gesture, knew how to electrify the crowds. There is also an element that inextricably links these two figures: fighting is not only violence, but also culture and discipline. Both gladiators and MMA fighters embody human complexity: spectacle and substance. In the Colosseum or the Octagon, yesterday as today, these fighters remind us that the body can be an instrument of spectacle, but also strength and fragility, strategy and instinct.

🥋Introducing Style-Based Teams: A New Era in Combat Sports 🥊 At Intercepting Fist Championship (IFC), we’re bringing something revolutionary to the world of MMA—Style-Based Teams. In traditional MMA, it’s always fighter vs. fighter, but we wanted to take it a step further by adding a unique layer of team competition that amplifies the intensity of each bout. 🔹 What Are Style-Based Teams? Imagine MMA teams formed around specific martial arts styles—from Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) to Muay Thai, Judo, Boxing, and more. Fighters represent their style, not only competing for individual victory but also for their team’s success. Each team is a reflection of their discipline, bringing strategy and pride to the competition. This concept blends the beauty of martial arts traditions with the excitement of MMA, giving fans the chance to root not just for individual fighters, but for their favorite fighting styles. It’s about more than just winning a fight—it’s about proving the superiority of an entire martial arts discipline. 🔹 How Does It Change the Game? Team Rivalries: Fans now have the opportunity to follow teams based on martial arts styles, creating new dynamics and rivalries that extend beyond a single fight. It brings a deeper connection to the action and encourages loyalty to a fighting style. New Strategic Layer: Coaches and teams must develop strategies to not only win fights but to leverage the strengths of their fighting style against different opponents. It adds an exciting element of tactical depth to each fight. Elevating Martial Arts: By highlighting distinct martial arts in their pure form, IFC gives fans a renewed appreciation for each style’s technique, strategy, and philosophy, creating a celebration of martial arts traditions within the framework of modern MMA. 🔹 Why Fans Will Love It: More drama, more storylines, and more reasons to cheer. Style-Based Teams give fans an entirely new way to connect with the sport. It’s not just about individuals, it’s about watching your favorite fighting style dominate across matchups. Style vs. style in a team-based format adds fresh excitement and depth to every event. At IFC, we’re committed to pushing the boundaries of what MMA can be. Style-Based Teams is just one of the ways we’re innovating the sport and offering something completely new to fighters and fans alike. The future of MMA is here—and it’s bringing your favorite fighting styles to the forefront. #IFC #MMA #MartialArts #TeamCompetition #StyleBasedTeams #CombatSports #FightInnovation #MartialArtsTraditions #NewEraOfMMA

Welcome to ‘Kids MMA With Egor - Episode 9’! Egor, Children’s National Ju Jitsu Champion, shows some simple yet effective MMA and sparring techniques that all children can learn and enjoy. Egor starts off with boxing combinations, followed by a strong turning kick. However, Egor mixes it up later, starting with a boxing combination before utilising throws and BJJ submissions. Martial arts is an “art”, so the choices of kicks and “set ups” are limited only by your children’s imagination, especially after we have taught them the moves. That is the beautiful thing with martial arts. Anybody can do it because there are so many distance ranges you can work from. Love it. 😁 On the children’s martial arts journey, remember that discipline, dedicated practice and having fun are the cornerstones of progress. We teach the children all aspects of martial arts – from kicking and punching to throwing, clinching, and grappling. Once they have mastered the fundamentals, which they love by the way, the world of combinations and ranges opens up, allowing your child to explore and express their unique personal style. If the children can gain confidence and express themselves in martial arts, they can do this with all aspects of their life, including friendship and education. We want your children to be the best they can be. 🥋 In the meantime, nobody was harmed in the making of this video. Therefore, I look forward to seeing all of YOU at our sparring classes in our various dojos. 👋 p.s. you must excuse the background noise. Everyone knows you do not interrupt a “Mr Scott MMA Class”, which the children love. It is not “Mr Scott” saying not to interrupt. It is the children themselves ha ha. quantummartialarts.com.au Music Credit: Elton John – Saturday Night’s Alright (For Fighting) 🎶 #buildabetteryou #martialarts #selfdefence #fitness #blackbelt #jujitsu #mma #bjj #wrestling #family #children #chatswood #northsydney #balmain #sydney #taekwondo #kickboxing #judo #brazilianjiujitsu #karate #boxing #muaythai #quantummartialarts #quantum #qma Quantum Martial Arts Quantum Martial Arts Darren Higgs Egor Datskii

Embracing MMA: a continuous path to success Remember, the journey is as rewarding as the destination, especially in the world of mixed martial arts. Staying committed is not just about physical prowess — it's about mental fortitude, discipline, and continuous learning. Every training session is an opportunity to test your limits, learn new techniques, and build resilience. MMA integrates many disciplines like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Wrestling, and Boxing, providing a holistic approach to combat sports. So, whether you're sparring in the ring, mastering a new submission, or refining your punches and kicks, each moment contributes to your growth as a martial artist and as an individual. Here are a few key points to remember to make your MMA journey enjoyable and efficient. They might seem familiar, but they are always worth a reminder: 1. #Consistency is key Progress is built on regular practice and commitment. Show up, even when it's tough. The discipline will strengthen your muscles as well as your mental toughness. 2. #Adaptability MMA teaches you to adapt quickly. In life, as in the ring, flexibility can turn challenges into opportunities. 3. #Mentalstrength Overcoming physical limits requires mental strength. Cultivating a strong mindset is crucial for success in and out of the dojo. 4. #Community matters Surround yourself with supportive and skilled training partners. Learning from others and sharing experiences makes the journey that much more valuable. Continue to inspire and uplift each other in the pursuit of excellence. Keep pushing forward and embrace every step of your MMA journey! #MMA #MartialArts #ContinuousImprovement #Discipline #FitnessJourney #PersonalGrowth #Mindset

Can Training in Martial Arts Make You a Better MMA Bettor? 🥋💥 This is a question I get asked a lot. The short answer? No, it’s not necessary—but it could give you a slight edge. Here’s why martial arts training can matter for MMA betting: 1️⃣ Deeper Fight Understanding Training helps you spot key details—positions, fatigue, striking setups, grappling control, and the clinch game. This insight can give you a small but significant advantage. 2️⃣ Personal Experience I’ve trained in Muay Thai, jiu-jitsu, and wrestling. While it hasn’t revolutionized my betting results, it’s given me a 1% edge. Small? Sure. But over time, small edges add up. 3️⃣ Not Essential for Success Some of the best bettors I know have never trained in martial arts, while some fighters struggle as bettors. The real difference-makers are research, analysis, and strategy. 4️⃣ If You Want to Train MMA provides the broadest knowledge. Jiu-jitsu is another great option for understanding positional advantages. But don’t stress if you can’t train. Betting success comes down to preparation. Takeaway: Training might improve your ability to analyze fights, but dedication to research, consistency, and strategy will always matter more. What’s your take? Does martial arts training help with betting, or is it overrated? Let’s discuss! #MMA #SportsBetting #Strategy #Winning

Mixed martial arts (MMA) is one of the most exciting and fastest-growing sports in the world, combining techniques from various martial arts disciplines into a single, dynamic combat sport. Learning MMA can be an exhilarating and rewarding experience, offering numerous physical and mental benefits. Whether you’re looking to compete, get in shape, or simply challenge yourself, here’s a comprehensive guide to embarking on your MMA journey. Understanding MMA What is MMA?: MMA is a full-contact combat sport. It allows a wide range of fighting techniques from different martial arts disciplines, including striking (boxing, kickboxing, Muay Thai) and grappling (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, wrestling, judo). Fighters can use these techniques both standing and on the ground. Rules and Regulations: The sport is governed by a set of rules, which are each designed to ensure safety and fairness. Understanding these rules is crucial for anyone training in MMA, as they https://lnkd.in/eME-gJUd #TrendsFeatures

Eddie Hall vs. Mariusz Pudzianowski: The Ultimate Showdown - A Hypothetical MMA Encounter In the realm of mixed martial arts, a theoretical bout between Eddie Hall and Mariusz Pudzianowski would be a spectacle of strength and strategy. Eddie Hall, known for his formidable power and record-breaking deadlifts, would bring an unparalleled level of force to the octagon. On the other hand, Mariusz Pudzianowski, with his Olympic weightlifting prowess and Muay Thai expertise, would offer a blend of explosive power and technical skill. Pudzianowski’s accolades extend beyond his Olympic achievements; he is also a five-time World’s Strongest Man (WSM) champion, having claimed victory in 2002, 2003, 2005, 2007, and 2008. His strongman background would certainly influence his approach in the octagon, potentially giving him an edge in terms of raw power and endurance. Who would emerge victorious in this ultimate showdown? The answer lies in the synthesis of raw strength and tactical acumen. As we ponder this intriguing matchup, let’s appreciate the dedication and discipline that both athletes have demonstrated in their respective sports. #MMA #EddieHall #MariuszPudzianowski #WSM #StrengthVsSkill #UltimateShowdown #FightNight