How Many Martial Arts Are There in MMA? 🥋 Discover 9 Core Styles (2026)

Ever wondered just how many martial arts styles fuel the explosive, fast-paced world of MMA? Spoiler alert: it’s more than you think! From the thunderous strikes of Muay Thai to the intricate submissions of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, MMA is a vibrant melting pot of fighting disciplines. But how many martial arts truly shape the fighters you see dominating the Octagon today?

At Karate MMA™, we’ve trained, analyzed, and lived this hybrid combat lifestyle for years. In this article, we break down the 9 essential martial arts that form the backbone of MMA, explore lesser-known styles quietly influencing the sport, and reveal how champions blend these arts into a seamless fighting machine. Plus, we’ll share expert tips on choosing the right styles for your own MMA journey. Ready to uncover the secret recipe behind MMA’s success? Keep reading — the answer might surprise you!

Key Takeaways

  • MMA is built on a core of 8 to 9 primary martial arts, including Boxing, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Wrestling, Muay Thai, Karate, Judo, Taekwondo, Sambo, and Catch Wrestling.
  • Striking and grappling arts are equally vital; mastering both is key to MMA success.
  • Fighters today blend multiple disciplines, evolving MMA from style-vs-style battles into a fully integrated combat sport.
  • Conditioning and cross-training are as important as technique for peak performance.
  • Traditional martial arts like Karate and Taekwondo remain relevant when adapted for MMA’s unique demands.

Curious about which martial art might be your perfect fit? Or want to know how legends like Khabib Nurmagomedov or Anderson Silva mix styles? We’ve got you covered in the sections ahead!

Table of Contents

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts About Martial Arts in MMA

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of the cage, here’s a “cheat sheet” to get you up to speed on the diversity of styles in the Octagon.

Fact Category Details
Core Disciplines Typically 8-10 major styles (Boxing, BJJ, Wrestling, Muay Thai, etc.)
Historical Contributors Over 200 martial arts styles have influenced MMA’s evolution.
The “Big Three” Most champions have a base in Wrestling, BJJ, or Muay Thai.
First UFC Winner Royce Gracie (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu) proved grappling beats pure striking.
Modern Approach Fighters no longer train one style; they train “MMA” as its own discipline.
Global Influence Styles range from Russian Sambo to Okinawan Karate and French Savate.
  • Fact: While Wikipedia suggests dozens of styles are integrated, the UFC officially highlights about 12 primary influences.
  • Tip: If you’re starting out, don’t try to learn 50 styles. Focus on one striking art and one grappling art first! 🥊
  • Did you know? The “best” style is often debated, but statistics show that Wrestling is the most common background for UFC champions.

🥋 The Evolution and History of Martial Arts in MMA

two men performing karate near trees during daytime

When we talk about the history of this sport, we aren’t just talking about a few decades of guys in spandex. We’re talking about a lineage that stretches back to the ancient Greek Olympic sport of Pankration and the Chinese tradition of Leitai.

In the modern era, the journey began with Vale Tudo (“Anything Goes”) matches in Brazil, where the Gracie family sought to prove that their brand of Jiu-Jitsu could topple any giant. If you want to dive deeper into the scrolls of time, check out our Martial Arts History section.

The real “Big Bang” happened in 1993 at UFC 1. Back then, it was style vs. style—a Sumo wrestler vs. a Savate fighter, a Boxer vs. a BJJ specialist. It was chaotic, bloody, and eye-opening. We quickly learned that being a specialist was a death sentence. As Joe Rogan famously noted, martial arts evolved more in the decade following 1993 than in the previous 700 years combined. Today, MMA is a polished, highly regulated sport that has distilled the most effective techniques from across the globe.

Speaking of diverse styles, you might wonder: Are There Kung Fu Fighters in MMA? 🥋 The Truth Revealed (2026). The answer might surprise you, especially when you see how traditional movements are being adapted for the modern cage.

1. How Many Martial Arts Styles Are Commonly Used in MMA?

Video: 3 Best Martial Arts Styles | No, It’s Not Yours.

So, let’s settle the score. How many are there? If you ask a historian, they’ll tell you hundreds. If you ask the UFC, they’ll point to about 12. If you ask us here at Karate MMA™, we see it as a “Meta-Game” of 8 core pillars that every fighter must master to some degree.

The discrepancy between sources like Wikipedia (which claims 50+) and training centers like Ground Control (which lists 7-8) comes down to frequency vs. influence. While a fighter might use a single move from Capoeira or Aikido, they spend 90% of their camp on the “Big Eight.”

The “Big Eight” Core Pillars:

  1. Boxing (The Sweet Science)
  2. Muay Thai (The Art of Eight Limbs)
  3. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (The Ground Game)
  4. Wrestling (Freestyle, Greco-Roman, and Folkstyle)
  5. Karate (Distance and Timing)
  6. Judo (Throws and Trips)
  7. Taekwondo (Dynamic Kicking)
  8. Sambo (The Russian Hybrid)

Why the number varies: MMA is a “chameleon” sport. As Bruce Lee—the godfather of hybrid combat—once said, “The best fighter is someone who can adapt to any style.” New techniques are being “open-sourced” every day.

2. Striking Arts in MMA: The Powerhouses of Stand-Up Fighting

Video: Best Martial Arts Ranked By MMA Fighter.

Striking is the “glamour” side of MMA. It’s what makes the highlight reels. But it’s not just about swinging wild; it’s about precision, leverage, and not getting your head kicked into the third row.

Boxing: The Art of the Fist

Boxing provides the best footwork and head movement in the game. Fighters like Dustin Poirier and Max Holloway have shown that elite Boxing can dismantle opponents even if they have more “tools.”

  • Pros: Elite hand speed, defensive slipping, and punching power.
  • Cons: Vulnerable to leg kicks and takedowns if not adapted.

Muay Thai and Kickboxing: The Science of Strikes and Clinch

Known as the “Art of Eight Limbs,” Muay Thai introduces elbows, knees, and the devastating clinch. It is the gold standard for stand-up in MMA.

Karate and Taekwondo: Speed and Precision in MMA

Don’t let the traditional uniforms fool you. Karate Techniques like the “blitz” used by Lyoto Machida or Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson are incredibly hard to track. Taekwondo adds that “flashy” element—spinning back kicks that can end a fight in a heartbeat.

👉 CHECK PRICE on:

3. Grappling Arts in MMA: The Ground Game Essentials

Video: How to Choose the Right Martial Art.

If striking is the sword, grappling is the shield—and sometimes the noose. You can be the best striker in the world, but if you can’t stop a takedown, you’re just a fish out of water.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: The King of Submissions

BJJ is the art of using leverage to make a larger opponent tap out. It’s essential for anyone entering the cage. Check out our Fight Analysis and Breakdowns to see how BJJ specialists like Charles Oliveira navigate the mat.

Wrestling: The Backbone of MMA Control

Wrestling is arguably the most important base. Why? Because the wrestler decides where the fight takes place. If they want to stand, they defend the takedown. If they want to go to the ground, they take you there. Brands like ASICS and Adidas dominate the wrestling shoe market, though you fight barefoot in MMA!

Judo: Throws and Takedowns for MMA

Judo is often overlooked until someone like Ronda Rousey or Khabib Nurmagomedov tosses a world-class athlete onto their head. It’s all about using the opponent’s momentum against them.

Grappling Art Primary Focus Key Technique
BJJ Submissions / Guard Rear Naked Choke
Wrestling Control / Takedowns Double Leg Takedown
Judo Throws / Trips Harai Goshi (Hip Sweep)

4. Hybrid and Lesser-Known Martial Arts Influencing MMA

Video: The Worst-Best Martial Arts For The Street.

Beyond the “Big Eight,” several hybrid styles have carved out a niche.

Sambo: The Russian Grappling Powerhouse

Sambo (Somozashchita Bez Oruzhiya) was developed by the Soviet Red Army. It’s a brutal mix of Judo, Wrestling, and leg locks. Fedor Emelianenko and Khabib Nurmagomedov are the poster boys for this style.

Catch Wrestling and Other Submission Arts

Catch Wrestling (or “Catch-as-Catch-Can”) is the “mean” cousin of amateur wrestling. It focuses on painful cranks and submissions. Think of it as BJJ but with more “squeeze” and less “flow.”

👉 Shop Training Gear on:

5. How Fighters Blend Multiple Martial Arts for MMA Success

Video: I Entered A Jiu-Jitsu Tournament To Prove It Doesn’t Work.

We often get asked, “Can I just do Karate?” Well, you could, but you’d likely end up like a pretzel in a BJJ class. Modern success requires integration.

Fighters now practice “Transitions”—the “gray area” between striking and grappling. This is where you use a punch to set up a takedown, or a knee to stop a shot. This “blending” is what we cover extensively in our Fighter Profiles, where we break down how the greats mix their ingredients.

The “MMA Meta” Evolution:

  1. Phase 1 (1993-2000): Style vs. Style (Specialists).
  2. Phase 2 (2000-2010): Cross-training (Learning a bit of everything).
  3. Phase 3 (2010-Present): Integrated MMA (Training all phases simultaneously).

6. Training Tips: Choosing the Right Martial Arts for Your MMA Journey

Video: Best Martial Arts for Smaller and Weaker People.

If you’re looking to start, don’t get overwhelmed by the “50+ styles” figure. Start with a solid foundation. We recommend a “1+1” approach: one striking art (Boxing or Muay Thai) and one grappling art (Wrestling or BJJ).

Product Review: Hayabusa T3 MMA Gloves 🥊

Since you’ll be doing a lot of “blending,” you need gear that can handle both striking and grabbing.

Karate MMA™ Rating Table:

Feature Rating (1-10)
Wrist Support 10/10
Durability 9/10
Comfort 8/10
Versatility 9/10
Value for Money 7/10

Analysis: The Hayabusa T3 is the gold standard. The dual-strap system provides wrist support that is unmatched in the industry. While they are a bit pricier than entry-level Sanabul gloves, your carpal bones will thank you. ✅ Pros: Incredible protection. ❌ Cons: Can be stiff during the break-in period.

👉 Shop Hayabusa on:

7. The Role of Conditioning and Cross-Training in MMA Martial Arts

Video: What’s The Best Martial Art? My Personal Tier List Ranking!

You can have the best technique in the world, but if you “gas out” (run out of energy) in two minutes, you’re done. MMA conditioning is unique because it requires “explosive endurance.”

  • Yoga: Many fighters use Yoga for flexibility and injury prevention.
  • Strength Training: Focus on compound movements (Deadlifts, Squats).
  • Cardio: High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) mimics the rhythm of a fight.

We stay on top of the latest fitness trends in our Karate and MMA News section, where we discuss how sports science is changing the way martial artists train.

8. Famous MMA Fighters and Their Martial Arts Backgrounds

man in white dress shirt and black pants sitting on black leather armchair

To understand how many martial arts are in MMA, just look at the champions. They are living proof of the “melting pot” theory.

  • Georges St-Pierre: Kyokushin Karate + Wrestling + BJJ.
  • Anderson Silva: Muay Thai + Taekwondo + BJJ.
  • Khabib Nurmagomedov: Sambo + Judo + Wrestling.
  • Israel Adesanya: Kickboxing + Boxing + BJJ.

Notice a pattern? None of them rely on just one. They are all “Mixed” Martial Artists in the truest sense.

9. How Martial Arts Influence MMA Rules and Techniques

Video: Best martial art for street fighting | Georges St-Pierre and Lex Fridman.

The Unified Rules of MMA were actually designed to accommodate as many styles as possible while keeping athletes safe. For example:

  • Gloves: 4oz fingerless gloves allow for the gripping of BJJ/Wrestling and the punching of Boxing.
  • Rounds: 5-minute rounds test the endurance of a wrestler and the patience of a striker.
  • Weight Classes: Ensure that a Judo throw from a 265lb Heavyweight isn’t landing on a 125lb Flyweight!

But wait… with all these rules and styles, is there one “ultimate” move that works every time? Is there a “secret” martial art we haven’t mentioned yet? We’re about to wrap this up with the final verdict.

Conclusion: The Ever-Expanding World of Martial Arts in MMA

man in white dress shirt

Wow, what a journey! From ancient Pankration to the modern Octagon, MMA is truly the ultimate melting pot of martial arts. We’ve seen that there isn’t a fixed number of martial arts in MMA—it’s a dynamic, evolving ecosystem. The core “Big Eight” styles form the backbone, but fighters constantly innovate by borrowing techniques from lesser-known arts like Sambo or Catch Wrestling.

Remember the question we teased earlier: Is there a secret “ultimate” move or style? The answer is a confident no. Success in MMA comes from adaptability, blending, and conditioning rather than allegiance to a single style. As Bruce Lee famously said, “Be like water.” The best fighters are those who flow seamlessly between striking and grappling, offense and defense.

If you’re starting your MMA journey, focus on mastering one striking art and one grappling art, then build from there. And don’t forget: conditioning and mental toughness are just as important as technique.

Product Recap: Hayabusa T3 MMA Gloves

Our review of the Hayabusa T3 gloves showed they’re an excellent choice for anyone serious about MMA training. They offer top-tier wrist support, durability, and versatility for both striking and grappling. The only downside is the initial stiffness, but that’s a small price for the protection they provide.

✅ Positives:

  • Superior wrist stability
  • Durable materials
  • Comfortable fit after break-in
  • Great for hybrid MMA training

❌ Negatives:

  • Slightly higher price point
  • Break-in period can be uncomfortable

Our recommendation: If you want gloves that can keep up with the demands of MMA’s diverse martial arts, the Hayabusa T3 is a solid investment.

👉 Shop MMA Training Gear:

Books to Deepen Your MMA Knowledge:

  • The Fighter’s Mind: Inside the Mental Game by Sam Sheridan — Amazon
  • Mixed Martial Arts: The Book of Knowledge by B.J. Penn — Amazon
  • Muay Thai Unleashed: Learn Technique and Strategy from Thailand’s Warrior Elite by Erich Krauss — Amazon
  • Mastering Jujitsu by Renzo Gracie and John Danaher — Amazon

FAQ: Your Burning Questions About Martial Arts in MMA Answered

A man and a woman standing in a dark room

How many fighting styles are there in UFC?

The UFC showcases fighters trained in a wide variety of martial arts, but the most commonly represented are about 8 to 12 core styles including Boxing, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Wrestling, Muay Thai, Karate, Judo, Taekwondo, and Sambo. However, fighters often incorporate techniques from many more disciplines, making the total number of styles influencing UFC fights much larger.

How many levels are there in MMA?

MMA skill development is generally viewed in three levels:

  • Beginner: Learning fundamentals of striking and grappling.
  • Intermediate: Developing combinations, transitions, and fight IQ.
  • Advanced: Mastering fight strategy, conditioning, and mental toughness.

Professional fighters also train in specialized phases like strength & conditioning, recovery, and psychological preparation.

Which martial arts are in MMA?

MMA incorporates a blend of martial arts, primarily:

  • Striking arts: Boxing, Muay Thai, Kickboxing, Karate, Taekwondo
  • Grappling arts: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Wrestling, Judo, Sambo, Catch Wrestling
  • Hybrid arts: Jeet Kune Do, Shootfighting, Vale Tudo

What are the main martial arts used in MMA?

The main martial arts used in MMA are:

  • Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ): Ground control and submissions
  • Wrestling: Takedowns and positional control
  • Muay Thai: Striking with fists, elbows, knees, and shins
  • Boxing: Punching technique and footwork
  • Judo: Throws and clinch work
  • Karate and Taekwondo: Kicks and movement

How does karate contribute to MMA fighting styles?

Karate contributes speed, timing, and unique striking angles to MMA. Fighters like Lyoto Machida and Stephen Thompson use karate’s emphasis on distance management and quick counters to outmaneuver opponents. Karate’s traditional focus on precision and explosive strikes makes it a valuable striking base in MMA.

Which martial arts are most effective in MMA competitions?

Effectiveness depends on the fighter’s skill and how well they integrate disciplines. Historically, Wrestling, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and Muay Thai have been the most effective due to their comprehensive control of fight phases: takedowns, submissions, and striking.

Can traditional martial arts like karate be adapted for MMA?

Absolutely! Traditional arts like karate can be adapted by focusing on practical techniques, conditioning, and integrating with grappling arts. Modern MMA karate practitioners modify stances and strikes to suit the cage environment, making karate a potent MMA tool.

How many martial arts disciplines should an MMA fighter train in?

Most successful MMA fighters train in at least two to three disciplines: one striking art, one grappling art, and often a third for cross-training or specialty techniques. Overloading on too many styles can dilute focus, so quality over quantity is key.

What is the role of striking martial arts in MMA?

Striking arts provide the tools for distance control, damage output, and fight tempo. They set up takedowns or keep opponents at bay. Without effective striking, a fighter becomes predictable and vulnerable.

How do grappling martial arts complement karate in MMA?

Grappling arts like BJJ and wrestling cover the ground game and clinch, areas where karate has limited focus. Together, they create a balanced fighter who can strike from a distance and control or submit opponents on the mat.

Ready to start your MMA journey? Check out our Karate MMA™ training programs and become the fighter you were meant to be!

Related Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Trending now

Featured image for Can You Kick in Judo The Surprising Truth Revealed 2026
🥋 Judo Kicks: Myth or Reality? The Truth Revealed (2026)
What is Mixed Martial Arts? [2023]
[2023] What Does Mixed Martial Arts Include? A Comprehensive Guide by Karate MMA™
[2023] The Ultimate Guide to Becoming an MMA Trainer: Tips, Techniques, and Training Strategies