7 Biggest MMA promotions and organisations in the world
Are you on the hunt for some of the biggest MMA events to watch? Discover the top MMA organisations and promotions you should keep an eye out for.
7 Biggest MMA promotions and organisations in the world
In the world of combat sports, mixed martial arts (MMA) stands as one of the oldest and most popular sports people love to watch and bet on. The MMA industry boasts several big and renowned MMA promotions and organisations that garner support worldwide.
If you’re a fan of MMA and are looking for some of the biggest MMA organisations and promotions in the industry to support, here’s a guide:
How many MMA promotions are there?
There are many MMA promotions around the world, ranging from large and globally recognised organisations to smaller regional or local promotions. The exact number of MMA promotions can vary, as new promotions emerge over time and some may cease operations.
Biggest MMA promotions and organisations aside from UFC
Although the Ultimate Fighting Championship is one of the most popular MMA promotions in the world, there are other well-known promotions and organisations to keep an eye out for. Some of the top MMA organisations and promotions that have gained recognition and popularity in the industry include:
Bellator MMA
Bellator MMA is recognised by many as one of the largest MMA promotions globally. It was founded in 2008 and has immediately gained recognition from MMA fans due to the variety of exciting events it features.
Aside from its competitive matchups, Bellator MMA also boasts a growing roster of talented fighters such as Patricio Pitbull, Douglas Lima, and Ryan Bader. While Bellator is based in the United States, it has expanded its reach internationally.
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ONE Championship
ONE Championship is a major MMA organisation that’s based in Singapore and was founded in 2011. While it mainly focuses on MMA, ONE Championship also boasts other combat disciplines such as MMA, kickboxing, and Muay Thai.
Its events are a perfect mix of these matches, making them more appealing to a wider range of audiences in the combat sports industry. ONE Championship events are broadcast globally through streaming platforms like YouTube and on various television networks like Channel 7 in Australia.
The organisation also developed its own digital platform, ONE Super App. In this app, fans can access live streams, and exclusive content, and engage with the sport. Some of the most notable fighters that ONE Championship has produced include Stamp Fairtex, Adriano Moraes, and Demetrious Johnson.
AMC Fight Nights
AMC Fight Nights is one of the top MMA organisations in Russia that was founded in 2010. It is owned by the Russian billionaire, Ziyavudin Magomedov and features matches of both pro and amateur fighters.
Due to Magomedov’s influence, AMC Fight Nights was able to form huge partnerships and collaborations with other MMA organisations, including cross-promotion events and talent exchanges. These collaborations have provided opportunities for Russian fighters to compete on a global stage and increased the promotion's international reach.
Absolute Championship Akhmat
Absolute Championship Akhmat (ACA) is another well-known MMA organisation in Russia founded in 2014. It is regarded as the third-largest MMA organisation in Europe and features nine weight classes with two female divisions.
Aside from its extensive roster, Absolute Championship Akhmat is known for its extensive roster of fighters and production quality. Some of the most popular MMA fighters under Absolute Championship Akhmat include Tony Johnson, Azamat Kerefov, and Abubakar Vagaez.
Caged Steel
Caged Steel is a UK-based MMA promotion founded in 2011. It is known for its commitment to showcasing professional and up-and-coming fighters. Aside from MMA, Caged Steel also features kickboxing and boxing matches, providing viewers with a diverse combat sports experience.
One of the reasons why Caged Steel is popular in the MMA industry is because it actively engages with its fan base, providing opportunities for fans to connect with the promotion and its fighters. This includes meet-and-greet sessions, fan contests, and social media interactions, fostering a sense of community and support.
Invicta Fighting Championships
Invicta Fighting Championships (Invicta FC) is a unique promotion in the United States that was founded in 2012. It is dedicated to showcasing and promoting women's MMA and has played a huge role in the growth and recognition of women's combat sports.
The promotion also provides a platform for up-and-coming fighters to gain experience and exposure to compete in larger organisations. Many fighters who have competed in Invicta FC have gone on to sign contracts with the UFC, the industry’s premier MMA promotion.
Rizin Fighting Federation
Since its inception in 2012, Rizin Fighting Federation (Rizin FF) has risen to become one of the top MMA promotions in Japan. What makes Rizin FF events unique compared to other MMA promotions is their elaborate productions, including complex walkouts, pyrotechnics, and other forms of entertainment.
Rizin FF is famous for its Openweight Grand Prix tournaments that feature fighters from different weight classes competing against each other, regardless of size or weight. The promotion also includes fights with modified rules in its matches such as allowing soccer kicks and knees to downed opponents.
Not to mention, Rizin FF features special exhibition matches. This allows fighters from various disciplines like MMA, kickboxing, and grappling, to compete against each other.
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FAQs about MMA promotions and organisations
Learn more about the biggest MMA promotions and organisations with these frequently asked questions:
What is the biggest MMA promotion in the world?
The biggest MMA promotion in the world is UFC. It boasts a vast fan base and an impressive roster of renowned MMA fighters.
Are there any notable MMA promotions outside the United States?
Yes, many international promotions like ONE Championship, RIZIN FF, and Cage Warriors have gained recognition and a dedicated following.
Which promotion is known for producing young MMA talents?
Legacy Fighting Alliance (LFA) is often associated with nurturing young and promising MMA prospects.
Where can I watch MMA events from these promotions?
You can catch MMA events from these promotions on various television networks, streaming platforms, or by attending live events.
What sets the Professional Fighters League apart from other MMA promotions?
One of the main factors that set PFL apart from other promotions is its unique tournament-style format, where fighters compete to earn points, leading to playoff and championship matches.
Aside from the popular UFC, there are other top MMA organisations and promotions that play a significant role in shaping the combat sports industry. From the global influence of Bellator MMA to the regional strengths of Cage Warriors, each promotion contributes to the growth and diversity of MMA, leading to the industry’s unparalleled success.
