The UFC has done the impossible by merging a few disciplines like boxing, jiu-jitsu, Muay Thai, and wrestling. Starting its journey in 1993, UFC has become a billion-dollar business venture. It is also world’s topmost organisation in mixed martial arts. This article analyses “evolution of UFC”.
Early Years of UFC
The first UFC event was back in 1993, far from the smooth productions that are seen today. Purportedly designed as a tournament to decide the best martial art, UFC 1 featured very limited rules, no weight classes, and little care for the safety of the fighters.
It was during this period that Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu master Royce Gracie dominated the early events, proving the effectiveness of ground fighting. This era was chaotic but laid the foundation for what would become modern MMA.
Introduction of Rules and Weight Classes
As the sport gained speed, so did the concerns related to safety and legitimacy. By the late 1990s, UFC implemented its first-ever weight classes, time limits, and standardised rules, which created unified regulation for MMA.
These changes distanced the image of UFC from its “no holds barred” status as it became more mainstream. The introduction of gloves, medical checks, and judgement criteria made this sport more professional and appealing to a wider audience.
Dana White Era and Mainstream Success
White and Fertitta brothers purchased UFC in 2001 guiding it towards mainstream success. UFC penetrated the international markets, and developed a list of marketable stars like Conor McGregor, and Jon Jones.
However, in 2005, UFC unleashed “The Ultimate Fighter” reality show that brought the sport to millions of households and cemented the organisation as an heir to many of the reasons MMA was conceived.
The Global Growth of UFC
UFC today has become a worldwide powerhouse with events being hosted on several continents, not only in North America but also cultivating its future and current talents from China, Brazil, and even the Middle East.
It still continues to propel and expand until millions of viewers can view it through traditional broadcasting and digital streaming.
Conclusion
From humble beginning to be at the pinnacle of everything globally, UFC transformed the sport of mixed martial arts.
Its inevitable march from an occasional niche activity to a mainstream phenomenon was destined to ensure dominance by UFC for many years to come in combat sports.
