Big steps in the MMA world this week, as the commission approves a number of massive changes…
For those of you thinking our recent report on losing by pooping yourself in MMA was a joke, think again. As with any budding sport, changes have been on the horizon for some time now.
We learned of a number of proposals this year to impact and potentially change MMA as we know it. The proposals included new weight classes, a new method of TKO finish, and a number of safety related regulations.
After meeting to consider the proposals, the association of boxing commissions (ABC) has come to their decision.
No More Pooping or Vomiting…
As per MMAJunkie.com, the new rules include four new weight classes. As far as the UFC is concerned, no response has been given to indicate when or if they’ll implement these weight divisions.
New weight divisions: 165 pounds (super lightweight) 175 pounds (super welterweight) 195 pounds (super middleweight) 225 pounds (cruiserweight).
Certainly, though, there will be no more pooping in the octagon without it resulting in the soiled fighter being TKO’d:
A TKO by medical stoppage if a combatant visibly loses control of a bodily function – vomit, urine, or bowels – during a round. If the loss of control occurs between rounds, a doctor must clear the combatant to compete.
More strict parameters for using instant replay in MMA. It may not be used for smaller shows that aren’t being filmed, and referees may only use it when a “fight-ending sequence” may have been caused by an intentional or unintentional foul.
Continue reading below…
More Two Weight Champions With More Weight Classes?
Taping of hands for competition. A maximum of one roll of white soft cloth gauze – of any brand – is permitted per hand and can be no more than 2 inches wide by 15 yards in length. A maximum of one roll of white athletic-type tape – also any brand – is permitted per hand and can be no more than 1 1/4 inches wide by 10 feet in length.
Limitations on joint/body coverings in competition. Other than the competitor’s hands, there is no taping, covering or protective gear of any kind on the upper body. A fighter may use soft neoprene type sleeves to cover only the knee and/or ankle joints, and the sleeves may not have padding, Velcro, plastic, metal, ties or any other material considered to be unsafe or that may create an unfair advantage. Tape, gauze or any materials other than the approved sleeves are not permitted on the lower body.
Thoughts…
Immediate ramifications of new weight divisions could be both positive and negative. Where it will give more opportunity to new fighters, it could also dilute and cause clusters of the same fighters in multiple divisions.
If you think middleweight is tied up now, wait until these guys can take fights 10 pounds up or down from the 185-pound category. Then again, it’s a much needed shake up that could give fans a fresh look at a sport that many feel is starting to become stale.
Getting the shit kicked out of you is officially a way to lose 😀
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