Mixed martial arts (MMA) is a full-contact combat sport that allows striking and grappling. It allows both standing and on the ground, using techniques from various combat sports and martial arts. The first documented use of the term “mixed martial arts” was in a review of UFC 1 by television critic Howard Rosenberg in 1993. The term gained popularity when contact rules were adopted to allow more diverse martial arts styles.

Today, MMA is practiced around the world and is a popular spectator sport, especially in North America. MMA fights are typically held in a caged enclosure known as the Octagon. Professional MMA fighters must train extensively in a variety of disciplines, including boxing, kickboxing, jiu-jitsu, muay Thai, wrestling, and Submission Grappling.

There are three main types of mixed martial arts competitions: tournaments, leagues, and shows. Tournaments are usually single-elimination events with multiple matches taking place over several days. Leagues are generally regular season affairs with playoff tournaments at the end of the season. Shows are one-off events that feature a single tournament or league match as the main event.