The extremely popular eclectic fighting system called MMA, which stands for mixed martial arts, has grown into something of a phenomenon. Classical boxing is being sidelined as the favourite of the armchair fanatic as MMA fighting enters the mainstream and takes its rightful place in popular culture. Wrestling, capoeira, Jiu-Jitsu, and Muay Thai are all disciplines that form MMA and are part of a fighter's toolbag of skills that he/she can draw on in the ring.
The fighting styles aren't the only practical element of MMA. Generally, the clothing used by MMA fighters is also an important blank canvas for sponsorship emblems and logos. MMA fighters can more or less function as advertising space while they perform. Brand logos will be displayed prominently on the sides of the legs and even across the buttock area. This results in the more traditional outfits being replaced with form fitting stretch shorts or long shorts with elastic or draw cord waistbands.
If a MMA fighter emerges before a bout wearing a robe, gi, or stylized tee-shirt and cap, brand logos will also be visible on the front and back, along the outer sleeves, and above the bill on a cap. Black, white, green, and red are the colours most used, usually in a combination of two or more hues.
Although many still don the traditional pre fight boxing robe, the hoodie is now a popular alternative. Hoodies are warm, comfy, and cool, and are now the top of choice for MMA fighters. Although the hoodie was popular with all ages long before MMA adopted it, its popularity has greatly increased since. Black or dark grey hoodies are the most popular, and again, will be emblazoned with strategically-placed sponsor logos.
Along with a hoodie, the polyester track jacket is popular. With elastic stretch cuffs, collar and waist band, it, too, will proudly display a logo as the aspirant MMA fighter walks to the octagon to the cheers and jeers of spectators.
MMA clothing is as much an image statement today as the fighters who wear it. MMA popularity has soured, as have the variety and size of the sponsor's logos. MMA is now enjoying well earned mainstream status as all aspects of it are embraced.
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