From Ropes to Cages - How UFC is Replacing Boxing

The evolution of society continues to deflate man’s level of shock as we are continually and increasingly exposed to death, murder, torture, riots, and every other form of vile cruelty. Within the last couple of years, there have been reporters raped mercilessly in the middle of riots, the #1 most hated man in the world gunned down, a Pro Athlete torturing animals, rapes, a College coach molesting hundreds of children, and it’s all in the spotlight. The sporting world too has become slightly more savage, even with new rules being implemented to protect players. By no means am I drawing a direct correlation between such calamities mentioned above and the evolution of sports, but it is interesting to point out the correlation that is occurring. Players are being restrained due to fear of decapitation, extreme athletes are pushing themselves to no end, and boxing has been replaced by the gruesome UFC, where every limb is used as a weapon to cause terminal pain. UFC has grabbed this world by storm and is rocketing beyond the world of boxing.

UFC is in the spotlight. Just buy your ticket for Steven Soderbergh’s movie HAYWIRE, where the lead actress is the Ultimate Fighter and ex -American Gladiator Gina Carano. UFC has taken over the airways with the lightning strikes, intense ground grappling, and the instant gratification that comes along with this type of sport. It is what the world wants, restrained shit kicking. Continuing with the media spotlight, THE CONTENDER (cancelled in 2008) has been replaced by ULTIMATE FIGHTER which is still going strong. UFC knockouts have more views then boxing knockouts, and even movie Theaters are starting to show UFC viewings. Eventually, all TV might be based around Mixed Martial Arts. Blood, sweat, and tears.

 Right now, there is really 1 primetime fight that can put boxing back on the map at least temporarily and that would be Mayweather/Pacquiao. The issue is that it won’t last unless this fight exceeds expectations. It is undeniable the top boxing professionals still receives financially way more money, but doesn’t that add to the luster of Mixed Martial Arts fighting? It’s still fought like the ancient gladiators of old. While they did receive money, power, and respect they fought for their lives, more motivation than any trophy or money sign could ever be.

Another cause that has lead to the disintegration of boxing is the lack of quality active legends. Besides Mayweather and Pacquiao, there is an unlimited list of 1 hit wonders that have graced the boxing arena, too many to pay attention to them all. Hasim Rahman, Wladimir Klitschko, and Sergio Martinez prove Ricky Hatton is just 1 among many.  In UFC, some of the most famous fighters are still rallying for the thrill of championship, stars such as Ortiz, Shamrock, Lesnar, and St. Pierre. Eventually, the way this fight is playing out, the Cage will replace the ropes as the number one money-maker in the world of legal pain infliction.

- Kyle