6 Biggest MMA Promotions in History

Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), a full-contact combat sport known for its striking, grappling, and ground fighting blend, has evolved significantly. Its roots can be traced back to combat traditions worldwide, but various promotions have significantly shaped its modern form. This article delves into the history and impact of the biggest MMA promotions that have left an indelible mark on the sport.

The Pioneering Days: Vale Tudo and Early MMA

The story of MMA began long before the term was coined, with Brazilian Vale Tudo matches dating back to the early 20th century. These no-holds-barred contests, which translated to “anything goes”, were the precursors to modern MMA. The Gracie family, particularly Hélio and Carlos Gracie, were instrumental in popularizing this form of fighting, developing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and setting the stage for global MMA promotions.

Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC): The Global Leader

The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), founded in 1993, emerged from an idea to identify the most effective martial art in a real combat situation. Initially, it was a tournament with minimal rules, allowing fighters from various disciplines, including boxing, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, wrestling, and even sumo, to compete. This eclectic mix gave rise to the term ‘mixed martial arts.’

UFC’s early years were marked by controversies due to its violent nature, leading to the nickname “human cockfighting.” However, under the stewardship of Dana White and the Fertitta brothers, who acquired the promotion in 2001, UFC underwent significant changes. It embraced stricter rules, weight classes, and a judging system, leading to sanctioning by athletic commissions and wider acceptance as a legitimate sport.

UFC has been instrumental in popularizing MMA globally. Legends like Royce Gracie, who showcased the effectiveness of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in the early tournaments, and later stars such as Anderson Silva, Georges St-Pierre, and Conor McGregor, have become icons in the sport. Landmark events like UFC 100 and the introduction of women’s divisions have further solidified its position as the premier MMA promotion. Today, UFC is not just a sports organization but a cultural phenomenon, with a global fanbase and athletes worldwide.

PRIDE Fighting Championships: Japan’s MMA Jewel

PRIDE Fighting Championships, established in Japan in 1997, quickly became a global sensation, offering an alternative to the UFC’s style of MMA. PRIDE differentiated itself with a unique rule set that allowed for soccer kicks, stomps, and knee strikes to grounded opponents, making the fights more dynamic and sometimes more brutal.

The promotion was known for its grandiose production values, with elaborate entrances and a passionate fan base that filled massive arenas like the Tokyo Dome. PRIDE events were not just fights but spectacles steeped in a culture that celebrated the martial arts spirit.

PRIDE’s roster boasted some of the most legendary fighters in MMA history. Fedor Emelianenko, regarded by many as the greatest heavyweight in MMA history, reigned supreme in PRIDE, defeating a who’s who of the division. Wanderlei Silva’s dominance in the middleweight division earned him the nickname “The Axe Murderer.” Fighters like Mirko Cro Cop and Minotauro Nogueira also became icons of the sport during their time in PRIDE.

The PRIDE Grand Prix tournaments were particularly notable, bringing together top fighters from different weight classes in epic battles that often lasted through the night. These tournaments weren’t just about determining the best fighter; they were celebrations of martial arts, showcasing skill, endurance, and heart.

Despite its eventual absorption into the UFC in 2007, PRIDE’s influence on MMA is undeniable. Its emphasis on spectacle and its rule set and roster of legendary fighters has left a lasting legacy in combat sports.

Bellator MMA: A Persistent Challenger

Established in 2008, Bellator MMA has carved out a significant niche in the MMA landscape, distinguishing itself as a formidable alternative to the UFC. Founded by Bjorn Rebney, Bellator initially adopted a tournament-based format, which was unique in the MMA world then. This format provided clarity on championship contenderships and added a layer of strategy and endurance to the fighters’ journey.

Bellator’s tournaments were designed so that fighters had to win multiple fights over a season to earn a title shot, bringing a narrative of perseverance and resilience. This approach helped build stars as fans followed their journey through the tournament. Notable fighters like Michael Chandler, Patrício Freire, and Eddie Alvarez became well-known names in the MMA community by performing in these tournaments.

In recent years, under the leadership of Scott Coker, Bellator has shifted away from the tournament format to more traditional fight cards, allowing for bigger marquee matchups. Bellator’s expansion into the European market and development of women’s MMA divisions have further solidified its status as a top-tier promotion. With a mix of seasoned veterans and up-and-coming talent, Bellator remained a key player in the global MMA scene, offering a platform for fighters to showcase their skills on an international stage.

Strikeforce: Innovators and Talent Incubators

Founded in 2006 by Scott Coker, Strikeforce quickly made a name for itself in the world of MMA. Initially a kickboxing organization, it transitioned to MMA and became known for its willingness to innovate and push boundaries. Strikeforce was one of the first major promotions to focus significantly on women’s MMA, helping elevate female fighters’ status in a predominantly male sport.

Strikeforce’s roster featured future UFC champions and stars, such as Daniel Cormier, Luke Rockhold, and Ronda Rousey. Rousey, in particular, became a breakout star in Strikeforce, showcasing the potential of women’s MMA before transitioning to the UFC. The promotion was also known for hosting high-profile fights, including the legendary heavyweight bout between Fedor Emelianenko and Fabricio Werdum, which ended in a shocking upset.

The promotion’s willingness to co-promote with other organizations, a rarity in MMA, demonstrated its commitment to providing the best possible matchups for fans. Its Challengers series also served as a platform for up-and-coming fighters to develop and gain exposure.

In 2011, Strikeforce was acquired by Zuffa, LLC, the parent company of UFC. While this acquisition marked the end of Strikeforce as an independent entity, its legacy lives on. Many of its fighters went on to have successful careers in the UFC, and its emphasis on promoting women’s MMA paved the way for the integration of female fighters into the UFC.

ONE Championship: Asia’s MMA Powerhouse

ONE Championship, founded in 2011 by Chatri Sityodtong, has emerged as a major force in the world of MMA, especially in Asia. Unlike other promotions, ONE Championship strongly emphasizes the values and principles of traditional martial arts, such as honor, respect, and humility. This philosophical approach sets it apart in the global MMA landscape.

The promotion has a diverse roster, featuring fighters from MMA and disciplines like Muay Thai and kickboxing, showcasing a broad spectrum of combat sports. ONE Championship has been instrumental in highlighting Asian talent, providing a global platform for fighters like Angela Lee, Aung La N Sang, and Eduard Folayang. Its events, often held in major Asian cities, draw large crowds and have a significant online following, contributing to MMA’s growing popularity in the region.

Professional Fighters League (PFL): Innovation in MMA

The Professional Fighters League (PFL), established in 2018, has brought a unique approach to the world of MMA. The PFL distinguishes itself with a regular season, playoffs, and championship format akin to major league sports. This structure provides a clear and consistent path to the championship, with fighters earning points in regular season matches to qualify for the playoffs and ultimately compete for a championship title and a million-dollar prize.

PFL’s focus on sports-season style competition offers fighters a guaranteed schedule and fans a more structured way to follow their favorite athletes. Notable fighters in PFL include Kayla Harrison, a two-time Olympic judo gold medalist, and Ray Cooper III. The promotion has also innovated in broadcast technology, utilizing SmartCage technology to provide real-time data and analytics, enhancing the viewing experience for fans. With its unique format and technological advancements, PFL is establishing itself as an innovative and exciting organization in the MMA world. Acquiring Bellator in 2023 might be another key step in the rise of this promotion.