Rules of MMA
Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is a combat sport that has been existence for many years under different names because of its origin. The sport was played using a number of rules that have evolved over the years as spectators as well as fighters become more aware of the various fighting techniques. The reasons for the rule changes of the MMA were motivated by the objective of the organizers to protect the fighters especially their health and also to provide a show for the spectators coming to watch the fights. Even though the rule sets of the MMA may vary slightly among the promotion companies, but the ones commonly used are referred to as Unified Rules of Mixed Martial Arts.
The rules of MMA are placed in a variety of categories making it much easier to understand each of them in the different contexts of the combat sport.
First, there are rules that govern the time limits as well as rounds that are part of the sport. Fights that are fought within the octagon will last for five minutes for each of the three rounds for non-title fights. On the other hand, championship fights will go for five rounds with each lasting five minutes.
Second, there are weight classes in which the fighters are placed in so that they can participate in the MMA effectively. These classes include lightweight, welterweight, middleweight, light heavyweight and heavyweight. These weight classes range from sixty seven kilograms which is the least to one twenty kilograms as the highest.
Third, there is approved attire that is allowed in the octagon which is generally fighting shorts and light gloves. Spandex shorts and wrestling suits that are tight on the body cannot be worn in the ring according to the rules of MMA. In addition, sponsorship of fighters via their fight clothing must also be approved beforehand to make sure that no unapproved message is portrayed.
Fourth, judging of the MMA fights also has some rules that govern it which is portrayed in a system that allows the three judges to distribute ten points. The scores are given on each round with the winner receiving all the points while the loser receives nine points or even less. However, if there is a draw on a round, the fighters each receive their ten points.
Fifth, there are a number of rules that also have to be observed by the fighters when battling out in the ring or else they get disqualified and lose points which include head butting, biting, gouging, attacking the groin, kicking opponent in the head, spitting at the opponent, using abusive language on the referee or the opponent among others.
Lastly, rules of the MMA also govern match decisions and especially the outcome of the fight which can be concluded as a submission, knockout, technical knockout, corner stoppage, doctor stoppage, judge’s decision among others. However, other outcomes may include no contest, disqualification, technical draw, technical decision and forfeit depending on the decision of the judges observing the match.
