Striking is a crucial component of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). It might not be the most important aspect of this rapidly growing combat sport, but it’s undeniably essential as a fighting technique, and a favorite among fans of the sport. MMA might be dominated by grapplers, but striking is what almost all fighters start with. After all, every fight starts with both fighters standing.
That being said, what is the best striking art for MMA? Many practitioners and fans would argue that Muay Thai is the best. After all, the art of 8 limbs offers the most weapons. The art teaches the use of fists, elbows, knees, and shins, arguably making Muay Thai the best striking option in MMA.
The argument that Muay Thai is the best striking base in MMA has been proven correct time and again. In MMA, the more weapons you have, the better. There’s that distinct advantage over using just one or two fighting styles, and making the fighter a better-rounded one.
Even fighters who are primarily grapplers need to learn how to strike. The diverse array of weapons in Muay Thai gives them that advantage, offering them a potent stand-up game.
The hard training for Muay Thai is another advantage. Training is hardcore, and then there’s the sparring aspect. Whether light or hard sparring, the fighters become ready for actual combat through sparring sessions.
Adapting Muay Thai into MMA
To solidify its place in MMA, Muay Thai should be adapted properly into the sport. What’s the best way to do that? Some minor adjustments are needed to make it as effective in the cage as it is in the ring.
The first thing to take note of is the stance. If you’re going to use Muay Thai in MMA, you need to have a wider stance. The traditional narrow and more upright stance of Thai fighters won’t do as it would be more prone to takedowns.
An MMA fighter will have to utilize more lateral footwork. The straight, come-forward style of Muay Thai fighters won’t work as much, and is more predictable.
Finally, other fighting styles need to be taken into account. If you’re an MMA fighter, you’re not just competing against other striking styles. There are also wrestling and submission techniques to worry about. You should know what to do once you’re taken to the ground. You must have grappling and submission skills, or at least know how to get back on your feet.
Muay Thai may, indeed, be the best striking base for MMA. But to make it big in MMA using Muay Thai, some tweaks are in order.
