When we mention “background” in MMA, we usually find ourselves discussing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai or college wrestling. As professional fighting becomes more lucrative, however, we are beginning to see athletes from an eclectic range of sporting disciplines entering the cage for the first time.
Can a sport really produce fighters by accident? Probably not. What non-combat sports can do, though, is equip individuals with the basic physical and mental attributes necessary for a successful foray into fighting.
This article looks to separate the sheep from the goats, discussing 10 activities which prepare the modern warrior for battle without a single punch, kick or knee being thrown.