The Evolution of Rules in Combat Sports: What Fighters Think

16 June 2025

Combat sports have come a long way from their bloodier, rule-lacking past. Fighters today are stepping into the cage, ring, or mat with an entirely different set of regulations compared to their predecessors. But how do they feel about these changes? Are modern rules making fights safer or watering down the raw essence of combat?

Let’s break down the evolution of combat sports rules and see how fighters truly feel about them.

The Early Days: No Rules, Just Survival

Back in the early days of combat sports, the concept of "rules" was almost laughable. Boxing bouts had no rounds, no gloves, and minimal officiating. Bare-knuckle fighting was just as brutal, often leading to severe injuries and even death.

Mixed martial arts (MMA) was no different. When the UFC first launched in 1993, it was marketed as a "no holds barred" contest. Fighters could headbutt, kick a downed opponent, and even pull hair. It was mayhem!

While fans loved the raw action, critics argued that these brutal fights resembled street brawls more than legitimate sports. Government bodies and athletic commissions took notice, which led to the first wave of rule changes.

The Rise of Regulations: Fighter Safety vs. Spectacle

As combat sports gained popularity, the need for structured rules became undeniable. The goal? To make fights safer while still keeping them exciting.

Boxing's Evolution

In the late 1800s, the introduction of the Marquess of Queensberry Rules transformed boxing. Fighters had to wear gloves, knockdowns were counted, and wresting-type takedowns were banned. While some fighters hated losing their bare-knuckle freedom, most agreed that gloves helped extend careers by reducing hand injuries.

Fast forward to today, and boxing is one of the most heavily regulated combat sports. Weight classes, round limits, and concussion protocols continue to evolve. However, many fighters argue that the standing eight-count allows too many concussed fighters to continue, increasing the risk of long-term damage.

MMA's Rule Revolution

When MMA first hit the scene, it was often described as "human cockfighting." The lack of rules led to immense backlash from politicians, media, and even former combat athletes.

Then came the Unified Rules of MMA in the early 2000s. Suddenly, we had timed rounds, weight classes, and restrictions on strikes. Soccer kicks to the head of a grounded opponent? Gone. Eye gouging and groin strikes? Banned (though that doesn’t always stop accidental low blows).

Many fighters welcomed these changes, as they provided a level playing field. However, some felt the new rules stripped away the purity of real combat. Fighters like Wanderlei Silva and Bas Rutten have spoken out about how old-school Vale Tudo rules allowed for a more natural fighting style.

Fighters' Opinions: Love It or Hate It?

Not all fighters agree on whether modern rules have improved or harmed combat sports. Some appreciate the added safety measures, while others feel like the sport has become overly sanitized.

Fighters Who Appreciate the Rules

Many high-level athletes, particularly those with long careers, support modern regulations. Their reasoning? Safety and longevity.

- Georges St-Pierre (GSP) – The former UFC welterweight champ has spoken about how rules have helped turn MMA into a legitimate sport rather than a brutal spectacle.
- Tyson Fury – The heavyweight boxing king understands why rule enforcement is critical, especially when it comes to protecting fighters from themselves.

For these fighters, the evolution of rules ensures they can keep competing without sustaining life-altering damage.

Fighters Who Miss the Old School Approach

Then there are fighters who feel like modern rules kill creativity and raw aggression.

- Wanderlei Silva – The "Axe Murderer" has been vocal about how PRIDE FC’s rules (which allowed head stomps and soccer kicks) were more realistic.
- Quinton "Rampage" Jackson – A fighter who thrived in both PRIDE and the UFC, Rampage has often stated that some rules, like banning knees to grounded opponents, slow down fights unnecessarily.

For these fighters, the current rule set limits their ability to use all areas of their skill set.

Is Safety Killing the Sport's Excitement?

This is the big debate. Are modern safety rules protecting fighters, or are they making combat sports less intense?

Some argue that overly strict rules make fights less exciting. For example, the ban on 12-to-6 elbows in MMA is often ridiculed. Fighters like Jon Jones have called it "one of the dumbest rules ever."

Similarly, in boxing, controversial stoppages due to cuts or seemingly early referee interventions frustrate both fighters and fans. These rules exist to prevent serious injury, but some argue they rob fighters of the chance to finish fights on their own terms.

On the flip side, no one wants to see another tragedy like the deaths of Duk Koo Kim (boxing) or João Carvalho (MMA). Fighter safety is paramount, and most agree that some level of regulation is necessary to prevent irreversible damage.

The Future of Combat Sports Rules

So, where do we go from here? Will combat sports continue adding more safety measures, or will we see a return to less restrictive rule sets?

Potential Changes Coming Soon

- MMA Knee Rule Adjustments – Many promotions, including ONE Championship, allow grounded knees, something UFC fighters have been lobbying for.
- Better Weight Cutting Regulations – Severe dehydration is one of the biggest dangers in combat sports, and various commissions are working towards new hydration testing protocols.
- Improved Stoppages & Instant Replay – Some fighters have called for better use of replay in controversial stoppages.

Fighters want a balance: rules that keep them protected but don’t strip the sport of its raw essence.

Final Thoughts

Rules in combat sports have evolved dramatically, from no-holds-barred brawls to structured, regulated contests. Fighters are split—some love the added safety while others miss the old-school, wild ways.

At the end of the day, combat sports must walk the fine line between safety and spectacle. The challenge is ensuring that fighters are protected while still giving fans the exciting battles they crave.

One thing is for sure—whether under strict rules or no-rules chaos, fighters will always find a way to fight.