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MMA, or mixed martial arts, has grown tremendously in popularity over the past few decades. While the UFC remains the most well-known promotion, several other organizations offer exciting fights and talented fighters. These promotions provide fans with diverse options and help grow the sport worldwide.
Top MMA Promotions Outside of UFC
Here are some of the best MMA fight promotions that have gained recognition for their quality fights and talented rosters.
Bellator MMA
Founded in 2008, Bellator MMA is one of the most prominent MMA promotions outside of the UFC. It features a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars. Bellator is known for its tournament format and signing former UFC fighters, which adds excitement to its events.
ONE Championship
Based in Singapore, ONE Championship has rapidly become Asia’s leading MMA promotion. It promotes a blend of MMA, kickboxing, and Muay Thai, showcasing a diverse array of martial arts. The organization emphasizes respect and martial arts values, making it unique in the industry.
PFL (Professional Fighters League)
The PFL stands out with its innovative format featuring a regular season, playoffs, and championship. Fighters compete in a league format, earning points and advancing based on their performance. This structure creates high-stakes fights and a clear path to the title.
Rizin Fighting Federation
Rizin, based in Japan, is known for its exciting events that often feature a mix of MMA, kickboxing, and special rules. It attracts top Japanese fighters and international talent, offering a different flavor compared to Western promotions.
Conclusion
While UFC remains the dominant force in MMA, these promotions provide thrilling fights and opportunities for fighters to showcase their skills. Fans looking for variety and new talents should explore Bellator, ONE Championship, PFL, and Rizin for some of the best MMA outside of the UFC.