"Let him go out on his own terms"
Contrary to my better judgment, I often read the comments posted on articles that I write. Once I wade through all of the foolishness and personal attacks, some interesting concepts emerge.
"Let him go out on his own terms" is a popular refrain. I get it and in a way it's heroic but heroes usually die in the end. Despite the popular metaphor these are elite athletes not gladiators. MMA is a sport and not mortal combat. No one needs to die, be maimed or seriously permanently damaged for the remainder of their days.
Elite athletes have been taught their entire lives to never quit. Therefore, they must be protected from themselves to a certain degree. I realize that this is a harsh statement but nevertheless true.
"All state athletic commissions adequately clear and protect fighters". If this is true, how do you explain Meldrick Taylor? Take a look.
FYI- Several states don't even have athletic commissions.
If the safety of the athlete is not paramount, there are not adequate rules and regulations in place and competent athletic commissions that vigorously enforce them, then MMA is doomed and as the detractors say barbaric.
I whole heartedly agree with you on this. It is so hard for a professional sports player to call it quits or accept that the end is over. Especially with boxing and MMA, the commissions need to protect the fighters from themselves sometimes. I'm not always a Dana White fan, but I think he is right on with Chuck Liddel. Also he deserves credit for doing the right thing for his friend on that one. Chuck is a big name who would still draw ppv buys, but Dana is putting the needs of the fighter over the needs of his company. Good for him.
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I agree. But I also believe that all sports should be treated by the athletic commissions equally. Overregulating a sport just because those in the commission don't like it does not seem logical. Regulations should be based on sound scientific evidence.
Why is head butting illegal in MMA? Is it really such a lethal weapon? Or are people just not comfortable to see this move that is not legal in any other sport? I personally think that inner kicks or inner knee strikes to thighs are more harmful, since they too often end up hitting groin. Should not we forbid those strikes instead of head butts.
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