4. MMA vs. Kung Fu
Roy Nelson fans will note that he is often introduced as a “Kung Fu Fighter”. Nelson really did start training in Kung Fu when he was 16 years old. It’s unclear how the discipline helped him throughout the years as a fighter. It certainly didn’t help keep his weight down any.
Possibly the oldest form of martial art still passed down, Shaolin Kung Fu was developed by Buddhist monks thousands of years ago. They believe it predates even the Shaolin temples.
How does a wise old Kung Fu master fare in a free-fight with a well-rounded MMA fighter? See for yourself in the video below:
When it comes to fighting in a one-on-one challenge match situation, MMA is hard to beat. The way MMA fighters tend to synthesize very successful striking arts (boxing, muai Thai) and very successful grappling arts (wrestling, BJJ) prepares them well for both stand up fighting and ground fighting.
It’s arguably the best system for fighting in a ring match, though that’s not the same as being the best martial art. In a fight with weapons, a kenjitsuka, escrima fighter, or HEMA practitioner is likely to beat an MMA fighter. In a self-defense situation, a krav maga fighter is likely to do better against an armed assailant or multiple opponents. For a fight on a pitched rooftop or a balance beam, etc. and a style like shaolin kung fu or ninjitsu that places lots of emphasis on balance will probably do better.
Different martial arts are good for different things and none is best for all situations. If you like sporting matches, as most martial arts students do, MMA is an excellent choice. If you’re from a different style and want to challenge a MMA fighter, don’t try going head-to-head in a ring. Find a kind of match that your style is adapted to and his is not.
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