Ultimate Fighting's Culture of Violence

At a time when the whole country is basically up in arms about the Michael Vick situation with illegal dog fighting, among other charges, I personally have a growing concern about the world of ultimate fighting.

Don’t misunderstand me, I’m not trying to compare ultimate fighting to the actions of Mr. Vick. Quite frankly, however, the level of aggression and violence that takes place between combatants during these matches that are held in steel cages scares the heck out of me. What in the world has this country come to when it comes to sports?

It’s no wonder our society continues to grow more violent and, more importantly, more tolerant of violence and violent acts. So-called sports such as ultimate fighting do nothing more than glamorize violence and promote it in such a way that the “baddest� and the meanest become champions and heroes.

Over the years there have been many people who have spoken out about the ills of boxing, but I haven’t heard much criticism of ultimate fighting to this point. In boxing, the purist will tell you there is an art to the sport and participants are made to fight within the confines of well-defined rules.

Ultimate fighting is more like a street fight. Growing up, most everyone got into a scrap or two, but anyone who even dared hit someone when they were down or tried to kick the other person was forever labeled a dirty fighter. Now, the object of a physical altercation leads to a no-holds-barred mentality and, in some circles, the use of weapons with absolutely no regard for the health or well-being of the other person involved.

Parents should think twice about letting children watch any of this nonsense and a good way to do that is not watch it yourself.

 

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