How Many Types of MMA Are There? 12+ Styles Explained (2025) 🥋

Ever watched an MMA fight and wondered why every fighter seems to have a completely different approach? One’s grappling like a spider, another’s striking like a lightning bolt, and yet another moves with the fluidity of a dancer. The truth is, MMA isn’t just one martial art—it’s a thrilling fusion of many styles, each bringing unique techniques and strategies to the cage. In this article, we’ll break down 12+ major MMA fighting styles, explore how rules and weight classes shape these styles, and help you discover which might suit your own fighting spirit.

Did you know that MMA fighters often cross-train in several disciplines to cover every angle? From the ground-control mastery of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to the devastating clinch strikes of Muay Thai, the diversity is staggering. Stick around, because later we’ll reveal insider training tips from our MMA Ninja™ coaches and where you can watch the best fights showcasing these styles live!

Key Takeaways

  • MMA blends over a dozen major fighting styles, including Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Wrestling, Boxing, and more.
  • Rules and weight classes heavily influence how styles are applied inside the cage.
  • Victory can come via knockout, submission, or decision, each favoring different skill sets.
  • Beginners should consider starting with a solid base like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or Wrestling before branching out.
  • Platforms like UFC Fight Pass offer the best access to watch diverse MMA styles in action.

Ready to gear up or learn more? Check out top MMA training gear and apparel from brands like Gracie Barra, Fairtex, and Venum on Amazon and official sites in our recommended links section below!

Table of Contents

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts About MMA Types

Welcome to the ultimate guide on how many types of MMA there are! If you’ve ever wondered why MMA fighters look so diverse in their fighting styles, or how the sport blends so many martial arts into one electrifying spectacle, you’re in the right place. At MMA Ninja™, we’ve trained, fought, and lived this sport, so we’re here to break it down for you with expert insights and some fun anecdotes.

Quick Facts to Kick Things Off:

  • MMA is not just one style but a fusion of dozens of martial arts disciplines.
  • Fighters typically start with a base style and then cross-train to cover weaknesses.
  • The most common foundational styles are Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Wrestling, Muay Thai, and Boxing.
  • MMA rules allow both striking and grappling, standing or on the ground.
  • Weight classes range from Flyweight (125 lbs) to Heavyweight (265 lbs), affecting style and strategy.
  • Victory can come via knockout, submission, or judges’ decision.

Want to know how many distinct types of MMA fighting styles exist and what makes each unique? Keep reading — we’ll reveal the top 12 styles and how they shape the sport today. Spoiler: It’s more than just punches and kicks! For a broader dive into martial arts styles, check out our related article How Many Types of Martial Arts Are There? 25+ Styles Explored (2025) 🥋.

🥋 The Evolution and History of MMA Styles

a woman in a black shirt is punching a punching bag

Before MMA became the global phenomenon it is today, it was a melting pot of fighting traditions. The roots of MMA trace back to ancient combat sports like Pankration in Greece and Leitai in China, where fighters combined striking and grappling techniques. Fast forward to the 20th century, and you have Vale Tudo in Brazil, where fighters from Judo, Capoeira, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu squared off with minimal rules.

The modern MMA era kicked off with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) in 1993, showcasing fighters from different disciplines competing under a unified rule set. The sport evolved rapidly as fighters realized the importance of being well-rounded.

Key Historical Milestones:

  • Early 1900s: Catch wrestling and Savate influence.
  • 1960s-70s: Bruce Lee’s Jeet Kune Do philosophy promotes hybrid fighting.
  • 1980s-90s: Shooto and Pancrase in Japan pioneer mixed-style contests.
  • 1993: UFC launches, popularizing MMA worldwide.

For a deep dive into MMA’s fascinating history, visit our MMA History category.

🤼‍♂️ What Exactly Is Mixed Martial Arts?


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MMA is a full-contact combat sport that blends techniques from multiple martial arts disciplines. Fighters can strike with fists, elbows, knees, and kicks, as well as grapple with takedowns, throws, joint locks, and chokes. The goal? To dominate the opponent using any effective method within the rules.

MMA’s Core Components:

  • Striking: Punches, kicks, elbows, knees.
  • Clinch Fighting: Close-range grappling, throws, and control.
  • Ground Fighting: Submissions, positional control, ground-and-pound.

The beauty of MMA lies in its versatility. Fighters must adapt to opponents with different skill sets — a striker might face a grappler, or a wrestler might face a kickboxer. This dynamic makes MMA one of the most exciting and unpredictable sports out there.


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Here’s the big reveal! MMA Ninja™ breaks down the 12 most popular fighting styles you’ll see inside the cage. Each has unique strengths and weaknesses, and many fighters blend several to become true all-rounders.

Style Primary Focus Strengths Weaknesses Famous MMA Fighters
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Ground submissions Control, submissions Striking defense Royce Gracie, Demian Maia
Muay Thai Striking & clinch Powerful strikes, clinch control Vulnerable to takedowns Joanna Jędrzejczyk, Valentina Shevchenko
Wrestling Takedowns & control Takedowns, ground control Striking skills Khabib Nurmagomedov, Daniel Cormier
Boxing Punching Footwork, head movement Grappling Conor McGregor, Petr Yan
Judo Throws & submissions Throws, balance, submissions Limited striking Ronda Rousey, Karo Parisyan
Kickboxing Striking Powerful kicks and punches Ground game Israel Adesanya, Stephen Thompson
Sambo Grappling & striking Throws, submissions, striking Less common globally Fedor Emelianenko, Khabib Nurmagomedov
Karate Striking Speed, precision, counters Grappling Lyoto Machida, Stephen Thompson
Taekwondo Kicking Dynamic kicks, agility Grappling Anthony Pettis, Yair Rodriguez
Capoeira Striking & movement Unpredictable strikes, agility Ground fighting Anderson Silva, Michel Pereira
Catch Wrestling Submission wrestling Aggressive submissions Striking Josh Barnett, Ken Shamrock
Luta Livre Submission grappling No-gi grappling, submissions Striking Marco Ruas, Renato Sobral

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ)

The king of ground fighting, BJJ emphasizes leverage and technique over brute strength. It’s the art that made the Gracie family legends. BJJ fighters excel at submissions like rear-naked chokes and arm bars, turning the tide on bigger opponents.

Pro Tip: If you want to survive on the ground, BJJ is your best friend. MMA Ninja™ coaches always recommend starting here for grappling newbies.

Muay Thai: The Art of Eight Limbs

Known as the “science of eight limbs,” Muay Thai uses fists, elbows, knees, and shins. It’s brutal and effective, especially in the clinch where fighters can control opponents and land devastating strikes.

Fun Fact: Joanna Jędrzejczyk’s striking mastery comes from Muay Thai, but she also cross-trained in BJJ to round out her game.

Wrestling: The Grappling Powerhouse

Wrestling is the backbone of many MMA champions. It’s all about takedowns, control, and dictating where the fight goes. Wrestlers often dominate by keeping fights on the ground or preventing takedowns to keep it standing.

MMA Ninja™ Story: Our coach once trained a wrestler who struggled with striking — after months of boxing and kickboxing, he became a feared all-rounder.

Boxing: The Sweet Science in MMA

Boxing’s footwork, head movement, and powerful punches are crucial in MMA striking. Fighters like Conor McGregor have shown how devastating a precise left hand can be.

Heads Up: Boxing gloves differ from MMA gloves, so adapting to the smaller gloves and clinch rules is key.

Judo: Throws and Submissions

Judo’s emphasis on throws and submissions makes it a valuable clinch and takedown art. Ronda Rousey’s Olympic judo background gave her a huge edge in MMA.

Kickboxing: Striking with Flair

Kickboxing combines punches and kicks with fluid combinations. It’s a favorite for fighters who want to keep opponents at range with powerful strikes.

Sambo: Russian Combat Sport

Sambo blends wrestling and striking, with an emphasis on leg locks and throws. Fedor Emelianenko, one of MMA’s greatest, was a Sambo master.

Karate: Speed and Precision

Karate fighters bring lightning-fast strikes and counters. Lyoto Machida’s elusive style is a textbook example of karate in MMA.

Taekwondo: Kicks That Fly

Taekwondo’s flashy kicks and agility can surprise opponents. Fighters like Anthony Pettis have used it to great effect.

Capoeira: Dance Meets Combat

Capoeira’s fluid, dance-like movements make it unpredictable. Anderson Silva’s style incorporated capoeira elements for unorthodox striking.

Catch Wrestling: Old School Submission

Catch wrestling is aggressive and submission-heavy, focusing on controlling opponents with painful holds.

Luta Livre: Brazilian Grappling Rival

Luta Livre is a no-gi grappling art from Brazil, rivaling BJJ with its focus on submissions without the gi.

🔍 How MMA Rules Shape Different Fighting Styles


Video: Every Countries Boxing Style Explained in 9 Minutes.







MMA’s Unified Rules set boundaries that influence how styles are applied. For example:

  • No strikes to the back of the head limit some wrestling ground-and-pound techniques.
  • Five-minute rounds require fighters to pace themselves differently than in traditional martial arts.
  • Allowed techniques like elbows and knees in the clinch favor Muay Thai specialists.
  • Weight classes ensure fair matchups but also influence style — lighter fighters tend to be faster and more technical, while heavyweights rely on power.

Understanding these rules is crucial for fighters and fans alike. For a full breakdown, check out our MMA Coaching category.

⚖️ Understanding MMA Weight Classes and Their Impact on Style


Video: Meng Bo (China) vs Ritu Phogat (India) | MMA Fight, HD.








Weight classes aren’t just about fairness — they shape fighting styles:

Weight Class Weight Limit Typical Style Traits Notable Fighters
Flyweight 125 lbs Speed, high volume striking Deiveson Figueiredo, Brandon Moreno
Bantamweight 135 lbs Balanced striking and grappling Petr Yan, Aljamain Sterling
Featherweight 145 lbs Agile, technical, versatile Max Holloway, Alexander Volkanovski
Lightweight 155 lbs Mix of power and speed Khabib Nurmagomedov, Dustin Poirier
Welterweight 170 lbs Power striking and wrestling Georges St-Pierre, Tyron Woodley
Middleweight 185 lbs Strength and endurance Israel Adesanya, Robert Whittaker
Light Heavyweight 205 lbs Explosive power, wrestling Jon Jones, Jan Blachowicz
Heavyweight 265 lbs Raw power, knockout artists Stipe Miocic, Francis Ngannou

Heavier fighters often rely on power and control, while lighter fighters emphasize speed and technique. This dynamic adds layers of strategy to MMA matchups.

🏆 Methods of Victory: How Fighters Win Across MMA Types


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MMA offers multiple ways to claim victory, each requiring different skills:

  • Knockout (KO): Rendering the opponent unconscious with strikes. A striker’s dream!
  • Technical Knockout (TKO): Referee stops the fight due to strikes or inability to defend.
  • Submission: Forcing the opponent to tap out via chokes or joint locks — BJJ and grappling specialists excel here.
  • Decision: Judges score the fight if it goes the distance. Can be unanimous, split, or majority.
  • Disqualification or Forfeit: Rare, but possible due to fouls or injuries.

Knowing these methods helps fans appreciate the tactical depth of MMA. For more on fight outcomes, see UFC’s official Methods of Victory.

📚 Essential MMA Terms Every Fan Should Know


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To sound like a pro at your next fight night, here are some must-know terms:

  • Ground-and-pound: Taking an opponent down and striking them on the ground.
  • Sprawl: Defensive move to avoid takedown.
  • Tap out: Submitting by physically tapping or verbally conceding.
  • Clinch: Close-range grappling position.
  • Guard: Defensive ground position with legs wrapped around opponent.
  • Rear-naked choke: A common submission from behind.
  • Cutman: The person who treats a fighter’s cuts during a fight.

For a full glossary, visit our Mixed Martial Arts Philosophy category.

🎥 Where to Watch Different MMA Styles in Action


Video: Perfectly Describing Every Single Fighting Style In MMA.







Want to see these styles come alive? The best place to watch MMA is through UFC Fight Pass, the ultimate streaming platform for MMA fans. It offers:

  • Live fights from UFC and other promotions.
  • Classic bouts showcasing different styles.
  • Documentaries and training series.

CHECK OUT UFC Fight Pass:
UFC Fight Pass Official

Other great platforms include Bellator MMA, ONE Championship, and PFL, each showcasing unique fighters and styles from around the world.

💡 Training Tips: How to Choose the Right MMA Style for You


Video: Every Countries MMA Style Explained in 10 Minutes.







Choosing your MMA style depends on your body type, personality, and goals. Here’s how to decide:

  • Are you explosive and love striking? Start with Muay Thai or Boxing.
  • Do you prefer grappling and submissions? Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or Wrestling are ideal.
  • Want a balanced approach? Consider cross-training in multiple disciplines.
  • Enjoy flashy, dynamic moves? Try Taekwondo or Capoeira.

At MMA Ninja™, we recommend beginners start with Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for its practical self-defense and ground control, then add striking arts like Muay Thai.

🤔 Frequently Asked Questions About MMA Types

Q: How many types of MMA fighting styles are there?
A: While there are dozens of martial arts influencing MMA, the top 12 styles dominate the sport today.

Q: Can a fighter be successful with only one style?
A: Rarely at the highest level. Most champions are well-rounded, blending striking and grappling.

Q: What’s the best style for self-defense?
A: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is highly effective, especially for ground control, but a mix of striking and grappling is ideal.

Q: How do fighters adapt their style for different opponents?
A: They study opponents’ strengths and weaknesses, then emphasize their own strengths or exploit gaps.

For more FAQs, visit our MMA Industry News for the latest insights.

Ready to dive deeper into the world of MMA? Stay tuned for our next article on how to train like a pro and master your favorite MMA style! 🥋🔥

🏁 Conclusion: Mastering the Many Faces of MMA

two men doing karate on green grass field

There you have it — a comprehensive tour through the diverse world of MMA fighting styles. From the ground-control wizardry of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to the striking artistry of Muay Thai and the explosive takedowns of wrestling, MMA is truly a melting pot of martial arts disciplines. Our MMA Ninja™ team hopes this guide has answered your burning question: How many types of MMA are there? The answer? At least a dozen major styles, each bringing unique flavor and strategy to the cage.

Remember, the best MMA fighters aren’t just specialists; they’re well-rounded warriors who blend multiple styles to cover every angle. Whether you’re a fan, a beginner, or an aspiring fighter, understanding these styles will deepen your appreciation and help you find your own path in this dynamic sport.

If you’re wondering how to start, our advice is simple: begin with a solid base like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or wrestling, then add striking arts like Muay Thai or boxing. This combo builds a strong foundation for success inside and outside the cage.

We also resolved the mystery of why MMA fighters look so different — it’s all about their unique blend of styles, body types, and strategies shaped by the rules and weight classes. So next time you watch a fight, you’ll see the beautiful chess match behind every punch, takedown, and submission.

Ready to train or just geek out more? Check out our recommended links below to get started!

🔗 Recommended Links for MMA Enthusiasts & Shopping

Ready to gear up or learn more? Here are some top picks from MMA Ninja™:

🤔 Frequently Asked Questions About MMA Types

What are the main styles used in mixed martial arts?

The main styles include Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Wrestling, Muay Thai, Boxing, Judo, and Kickboxing. These form the core disciplines that most MMA fighters train in, blending striking and grappling techniques to become well-rounded competitors.

How is MMA different from traditional martial arts?

MMA combines techniques from multiple martial arts into one sport with unified rules allowing both striking and grappling, standing or on the ground. Traditional martial arts often focus on a single style with specific techniques and rules, whereas MMA emphasizes adaptability and effectiveness in a full-contact, competitive environment.

What are the common weight classes in MMA?

MMA weight classes range from Flyweight (125 lbs) to Heavyweight (265 lbs), with divisions like Bantamweight, Featherweight, Lightweight, Welterweight, Middleweight, and Light Heavyweight in between. These classes ensure fair competition and influence fighting styles based on size and speed.

Which martial arts disciplines are most effective in MMA?

Effectiveness depends on the fighter’s skill and how well they integrate disciplines. However, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for submissions, Wrestling for control and takedowns, and Muay Thai/Boxing for striking are widely regarded as the most effective bases in MMA.

How do MMA rules vary between organizations?

While most major organizations like UFC, Bellator, and ONE Championship follow the Unified Rules of MMA, some regional promotions may have slight variations in allowed techniques, round lengths, or scoring criteria. Always check the specific promotion’s rulebook for details.

What is the history behind mixed martial arts?

MMA’s history spans from ancient combat sports like Pankration in Greece to modern hybrid contests like Vale Tudo in Brazil and the first UFC events in 1993. It evolved by blending striking and grappling arts worldwide, influenced by pioneers like the Gracie family and Bruce Lee’s philosophy of no fixed style.

How can beginners choose the best MMA style to learn?

Beginners should consider their body type, interests, and goals. Starting with a grappling art like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or Wrestling builds a strong foundation, while striking arts like Muay Thai or Boxing develop stand-up skills. Cross-training is essential to becoming well-rounded.

What are the best training tips for MMA beginners?

  • Focus on fundamentals first.
  • Train both striking and grappling.
  • Find a reputable gym with experienced coaches.
  • Be patient and consistent.
  • Watch fights and study different styles.

Thanks for joining us on this journey through the many faces of MMA! Whether you’re stepping into the cage or cheering from the sidelines, understanding the styles behind the sport makes every fight more thrilling. Stay sharp, train hard, and keep that ninja spirit alive! 🥋🔥

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