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Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is a sport where anything goes—except for a few critical rules designed to protect fighters. These rules ensure that the octagon remains a place of skill and strategy, not lawless brawling. However, when fighters cross the line and commit illegal moves, the consequences can be severe, ranging from disqualifications to career-altering injuries. Here’s a look at some of the worst illegal moves in MMA, why they’re banned, and infamous instances where these fouls have dramatically impacted fights.
Eye Gouging MMA
Eye gouging is arguably the most dangerous and universally condemned illegal move in MMA. The human eye is incredibly vulnerable, and even a slight gouge can cause permanent damage, including blindness. Despite being strictly forbidden, accidental eye pokes happen relatively often, leading to temporary pauses in fights. The infamous fight between Jon Jones and Daniel Cormier saw multiple eye pokes from Jones, sparking debates about the enforcement of this rule. While unintentional pokes might earn a warning, deliberate eye gouging leads to immediate disqualification and a tarnished reputation.
Groin Strikes MMA
Groin strikes are not only illegal but can also be incredibly painful and debilitating. The groin area is unprotected, making it a prime target, whether intentionally or accidentally struck. Despite being banned, groin shots happen more often than any fighter would like, usually resulting in a temporary stoppage of the fight to allow the injured fighter to recover. A notable incident occurred during the fight between Matt Mitrione and Sergei Kharitonov in Bellator 215, where Mitrione's accidental groin strike ended the fight in just 15 seconds, leaving fans and fighters frustrated.
Kicks and Knees to a Downed Opponent MMA
One of the most controversial and dangerous illegal moves in MMA is delivering a kick or knee to the head of a downed opponent. This rule is in place to prevent fighters from taking advantage of a grounded opponent who is unable to defend themselves adequately. A high-profile incident occurred at UFC 229, when Khabib Nurmagomedov's teammate, Zubaira Tukhugov, delivered a knee to a downed Conor McGregor during the post-fight brawl. Another infamous example is the fight between Aljamain Sterling and Petr Yan at UFC 259, where Yan delivered an illegal knee to Sterling's head, resulting in Sterling winning the Bantamweight title by disqualification.
Fish Hooking MMA
Fish hooking, where a fighter inserts their fingers into an opponent's mouth or nose and pulls, is a grotesque and dangerous move that can cause serious injury. This foul is particularly nasty because it targets sensitive areas, often resulting in torn flesh or damaged teeth. Although rare, when it does occur, it's immediately penalized with disqualification or severe point deductions. The move is so taboo that it’s seldom seen in professional MMA, with fighters understanding the severe repercussions of employing such a tactic.
Spiking (Piledriving) MMA
Spiking, or piledriving, occurs when a fighter lifts and drives their opponent head-first into the canvas. This move is illegal due to the extreme risk of neck and spinal injuries, which can lead to paralysis or even death. An infamous incident happened in the fight between Evan Tanner and Rich Franklin at UFC 42, where Tanner was knocked out cold after being spiked on his head. The potential for catastrophic injury is so high that referees are instructed to intervene immediately if a spiking attempt is seen.
Grabbing the Fence MMA
Grabbing the fence to prevent a takedown or to improve position is a common foul in MMA. While it may not be as physically harmful as some of the other fouls, it can significantly affect the outcome of a fight by giving the offender an unfair advantage. A notorious example occurred during the fight between Chad Mendes and Jose Aldo at UFC 179, where Aldo grabbed the fence to prevent a takedown, leading to a controversial finish. While often met with a warning or point deduction, repeated offenses can lead to disqualification.
MMA is a sport that celebrates the clash of martial arts styles and the sheer athleticism of its fighters, but there are boundaries that must not be crossed. Illegal moves not only tarnish the integrity of the sport but also put fighters at risk of serious injury. While accidents happen, deliberate fouls are met with the harshest penalties, serving as a reminder that in MMA, skill and respect for the rules are paramount. As the sport continues to evolve, so too does the enforcement of these rules, ensuring that the octagon remains a place where the best fighter wins, not the one willing to break the rules.
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