Misrepresented Diversity in Mixed Martial Arts

Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is often shown (or at least perceived) to be something that is marketed exclusively to young males. It’s not unreasonable to think that, based on the images that the media chooses to show:





Though it is statistically true that the major demographic of MMA viewers are males between the ages of 18-34 (some sources claim up to 18-49 years of age), the audience that the sport attracts is really quite diverse. The fanbase of the sport includes a significant percentage of women and a large percentage of the middle class, as well as people of all backgrounds. Many celebrities are often seen attending events as well. According to mmafacts.com, the ratings of certain events of MMA organizations such as the UFC and EliteXC have reported 30-40% of the viewing audience to be women.

In regard to the fighters, those who participate in MMA events are as diverse as the people who come to see them. They are not solely the bunch of tattooed male street fighter stereotypes, but in fact practitioners of many martial arts disciplines from around the world.

“Mixed martial artists are some of the best athletes in the world. Before taking up MMA many of the athletes were college All-American’s and Olympic champions. To stay competitive, all of the athletes are trained in a variety of martial arts disciplines including judo, wrestling, boxing, karate and jujitsu. UFC®, the biggest MMA organization, boasts that a significant majority of their fighters have college degrees.” (mmafacts.com)



Some well-recognized MMA fighters:

Tyson Griffin


Keith Jardine


Seem to contrast the guys in the above pictures, don’t they?


Fighters come from all backgrounds and ethnicities. Many nations such as the United States, Brazil, Japan, and Russia have produced champions that have international recognition. The sport is not limited to males in participation either. Many female fighters are gaining recognition in MMA as well (notably EliteXC’s Gina Carano-who has an undefeated record) although the Women’s MMA scene is relatively new to the spotlight.

Martial Arts have existed as long as human civilization or arguably as long as human beings themselves. Methods of self-defense, whether used strictly for protection or as entertainment are a part of human culture, and thus people all over the world can relate to or take interest in them. It is then no surprise that Mixed Martial Arts has attracted all kinds of people as all forms of martial arts as well as practitioners are represented. More and more people see this, and the viewing audience continues to grow in number and in diversity.

For more information check out: www.mmafacts.com/