According to Loudon Owen, chairman of The Fight Network, MMA is actually several sports: More specifically, a fusion of combat sports that involve components such as striking, takedowns and grappling.
Although not an Olympic Sport, individual elements of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) have been part of the modern Olympic landscape for years. For example, striking (Boxing, Tae Kwon Do); takedowns, throws and grappling (Judo, Wrestling) are some of the most popular Olympic spectator sports around.
As stand alone combat sports they are practiced daily in Martial Arts and Sports Clubs, Middle schools and Universities/Colleges across Ontario and beyond by thousands of men, women and children. Combined – or mixed – they are excellent forms of fitness and make for some of the most entertaining sporting events around.
As to why MMA sporting events are banned in Ontario, there has yet to be a reasonable explanation provided. Those looking for answers to this question are encouraged to contact Ken Hayashi of the Ontario Athletic Commission.