At least they don't allow head kicks or knees to a downed opponent, like they do in Japan - that's just savage. I broadly agree though, punches and elbows to the head of a downed opponent aren't nice, but (IMO) it's up to referees to be more active in stopping fights. Problem is, of course, that you can defend those strikes and recover - potentially go on to win - and early stoppages please no-one. Durability has always been a part of combat sports, and some people can absorb frightening amounts of concussive blows without being stunned or ko'd.Jumby wrote:You should have to fight for a vacant title, then again you shouldn't hit a man when he's down......
I've been trying to get into UFC but the hitting a man when he's down thing just doesn't well with me, never has and I can't see that changing, I do find McGregor intriguing though, the lad punches well.
I see MMA as a sport, nothing more than that. It's kind of the distillation of contact sport - a pure competition between two people with the intention of establishing physical superiority. Like rugby without the ball, or ice hockey without the ice, puck, sticks, armour & helmets etc. I run a mile from real violence, but have no problem with the idea that if two people want to agree some rules, then train for a refereed fight, they should be allowed to (and I'm allowed to watch).
I still think it's safer than boxing, though how much safer is open to debate. Still, people will always want to fight and people will always want to know who's the best fighter in the playground, pub car park, gym and world.