On 01/09/2001, Zuffa, LLC purchased the UFC from Bob Meyrowitz and the Semaphore Entertainment Group. Ever cognizant of the sports trials and tribulations during the preceding eight years, Zuffa’s management team immediately prioritized an affiliation with, and an official recognition from, a state athletic commission.
Read More“In order to preserve and spread Muay Thai, the national sport of Thailand, and enhance Muay Thai for internationally appreciation and acceptance, it is hereby agreed that WBC (World Boxing Council) and SAT (Sport Authority of Thailand) to cooperate to promote Muay Thai worldwide renown.”
Read MoreAs I stated last month, most of the rules have evolved as a direct response to the old adage, “necessity is the mother of invention.”
Read More“Songkran” Hollywood had almost everything to be found in Bangkok, without the humidity, traffic, mosquitoes, and noise pollution. In addition to the offerings of Thai arts and crafts, the festival showcased many performances and activities that comprise Thai arts and culture.
Read MoreAlthough it is generally agreed that the Ten Commandments were carved in stone and are a divinely inspired set of rules, the same cannot be said for the rules governing society or those associated with mixed martial arts (MMA).
Read MoreAs my good friend, "Judo" Gene LeBell states in his just published autobiography, The Godfather of Grappling, "You don't go into another man's backyard, play by his rules and expect to win."
Read MoreIn the March issue of Grappling, my column, "A New Day?" discussed what I perceived to be subtle changes in the California State Athletic Commission's (CSAC) approach to the business aspect of being a regulatory agency.
Read MoreIn sports, as in daily living, goal setting is critical for success. Goal setting for an athlete is a process whereby he progressively challenges his standard of performance with a defined level of task performances that increase his chances of success.
Read MoreI will never understand why the entertainment value of kickboxing and mixed martial arts takes a backseat to the likes of fly-fishing, synchronized swimming, spelling bees, bass fishing, and double-dutch rope skipping. Oh, and don't forget hot dog eating contests. Give me a break!
Read MoreIt has long been known that in one-on-one sporting events such as boxing, muay Thai and mixed martial arts, ten percent of the competitors win 90 percent of the competitions. Which begs the question, "why?"
Read MoreOver the past 18 years I have refereed boxing, kickboxing, Drakka, mixed martial arts, and muay Thai. As such, I have had a number of unique experiences. However, in the future I've resolved NEVER TO PLAY LEAPFROG WITH A UNICORN.
Read MoreIf a fighter is only as good as his last fight, a mixed martial arts judge must only be as good as his last controversial decision or stoppage. It's in these situations where split-second reactions or educated rulings have to be made. But rooted in human judgment, mistakes are made and observers are quick to point them out.
Read MoreGenerally speaking, when judging kickboxing or Muay Thai, if the round seems fairly even, the edge in scoring will go to the fighter scoring more effectively with kicks and/or knee strikes.
Read MoreNowhere are rules and regulations more evident than in sports competition. In point of fact, there is no organized sport that doesn't have rules. Even the original Olympic Pankration had rules against eye gouging and biting.
Read MoreHey fight fans, have you ever felt like an early pioneer as you drive for hours to some remote Indian reservation to see your favorite MMA fighter? Do you remember wondering why the promoter couldn't get a location that didn't have buzzards flying overhead? Well, I'm here to tell you why so listen-up!
Read More"First and foremost, a referee must have a thorough knowledge of the rules and regulations. Knowing that he knows the rules gives him the self-confidence to enforce them."
Read More