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The Triangle Choke: MMA Myths

Pro Fighitng Fans' Editor-in-Chief Scott Dryden evaluates myths in the sport of MMA

 

The Sport of MMA is filled with self serving promoters and hangers-on who do everything possible to take advantage of the fans and the fighters. However, that is no different than the monopolies of Major League Baseball, the NBA and the NFL. The big three have violated fans for years with what is essentially price gauging to finance overpaid athletes and fill the pockets of greedy owners. It is difficult for the true fans of sports to take their families to events and even more difficult for them to take a stand. The only real option for fans to make a difference in baseball, basketball and football is by not attending events which in reality only hurts the fans. However, in MMA there is competition everywhere at both the national and regional levels. You, the fans, can still make a difference. You can protect yourself and help the fighters in various methods. The first step is to understand the myths that surround the sport. The following is some well established myths, both regionally and nationally, and what you can do to make a difference:



MMA Myths at the National Level:

  • The UFC has all the best fighters in the world
    Translation: The UFC has the most money and by far the biggest marketing machine. The fact is the UFC has the most depth and talent but some of the best fighters in each weight class compete outside of the UFC. If you cannot afford the hefty pay-per-view price tag of the UFC, watch MMA programming on HDNet, Fox Sports Net and Strikeforce on CBS and Showtime. Educate yourself by understand the big picture of MMA
  • The Ultimate Fighter has the best up and coming prospects
    Translation: The fans cannot see the entire tryout process nor do they know who didn’t make the show. The prime example is Seth Baczynski making the first portion of this season’s TUF. While Seth is a talented fighter, he was defeated in 9 seconds by Roger Bowling who didn’t make a previous Ultimate Fighter show. The Ultimate Fighter’s roster is 60% talent and 40% combination of non-talented fighters and drama queens. See Junie Browning as an example. Enjoy The Ultimate Fighter but expand your horizons by attending and watching other organizations.
  • Sport or Entertainment?
    Translation: The UFC gets tagged with this moniker often as fighters such as Dan Hardy and Vitor Belfort were given title shots before they deserved them and freak shows like the aforementioned Browning and Kimbo Slice are promoted beyond explanation. The fact is that Strikeforce, Dream, etc. have utilized the same type of hyperbole when dollar signs flash. The sport is still young and fans still fall for the WWE sensationalism. Don’t buy into the hype. If the UFC or other organizations have lackluster cards, don’t watch.

 

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MMA Myths at the Regional Level:

  • Fighters “Backing Out”
    Translation: The fight card posters were printed and distributed without the fighters actually being signed. Why do this? So you the fan will purchase expensive tickets to see the fighters listed. Then the promoter explains, on fight night of course, that the fighters backed out (this will happen at a regional promotion in the very near future). While it is true injuries do occur and various other issues can arise, it is extremely rare that a fighter will back out, especially if he has signed a contract. If this happens to you contact the athletic commission and voice your opinion. It is blatant false advertising which resulted in you spending your hard earned money on an inferior product. Contact the athletic commission and they will freely give you the details.
  • Promoters and Matchmakers Visibility
    Translation: If the promoter and or matchmakers are either ecstatic after a fighter's victory or seen in their corner or showing obvious bias, they are probably “managing” the fighter or have a deep vested interest. This is a direct conflict of interest and violates several moral and ethical codes. It is not healthy for the sport and gives it a pro wrestling aura. I have even witnessed a promoter officiating his own event where win bonuses and money are at stake. Fans be aware, and if you witness this contact the athletic commission and express your opinion. These type of events eliminate an even playing field and hurt the fighters.
  • Former UFC Fighters Against Fighters Making Their Pro Debuts
    Translation: The gym owner/coaches and promoters are throwing inexperienced fighters to the wolves for the sake of the dime. This is simply inexcusable and unethical. Although you the fan has a strong desire to see “name” fighters keep in mind the implications. This is not baseball or basketball; people do and can get hurt seriously. The Ohio Athletic Commission governs this closely and as result you see some promoters steer clear of the Buckeye state. Fans, stand up for the fighters and as always let your voice be heard.

Fight fans we are watching the explosion of one of the greatest sports on the planet. As hard core MMA fans you have a responsibility to protect the fighters by educating yourself and expressing your displeasure to the local athletic commissions. The contact information for the local athletic commissions:

  • Indiana: 317-233-0046
  • Kentucky: 502-564-0085
  • Ohio: 330-797-2556

 

Upcoming MMA Events of Note:

 

 

By Scott Dryden
ProFighting-fans.com Editor-in-Chief