Dsalita BoxingWhy Can’t You Hit the Back of the Head in MMA?
When it comes to mixed martial arts (MMA), there are specific rules and regulations in place to ensure the safety of the fighters. One of the rules that is strictly enforced is the prohibition of striking the back of the head. This rule has been put in place for several reasons, which we will explore in detail below.
1. Protecting the Brain
The primary reason for not allowing strikes to the back of the head is to protect the fighter’s brain. The back of the head houses the brainstem, which is responsible for controlling many vital functions of the body, including breathing, heart rate, and consciousness. Striking this area can cause severe damage to the brainstem, leading to serious injury or even death.
Furthermore, the back of the head is also more vulnerable to rotational forces, which can result in rotational brain injuries like concussions. By prohibiting strikes to this area, MMA organizations aim to minimize the risk of traumatic brain injuries.
2. Preventing Spinal Injuries
Another reason for the ban on strikes to the back of the head is to prevent spinal injuries. The spine runs through the back of the head and down the neck, and any forceful strikes to this area can potentially cause damage to the spinal cord. Injuries to the spinal cord can lead to paralysis or other severe neurological complications.
3. Ensuring Fairness and Sportsmanship
Striking the back of the head is considered an unfair and unsportsmanlike tactic. It targets a vulnerable area that is difficult for the opponent to defend against. By prohibiting strikes to the back of the head, MMA organizations aim to promote fair competition and maintain the integrity of the sport.
4. Avoiding Eye Injuries
The back of the head is in close proximity to the eyes, and strikes to this area can inadvertently cause eye injuries. The eyes are highly sensitive and vulnerable to damage, and any direct or indirect strikes to the back of the head can result in eye injuries such as detached retinas or damage to the optic nerve.
5. Preserving the Fighter’s Career
Allowing strikes to the back of the head increases the risk of serious injuries that can have long-term consequences for a fighter’s career. By enforcing the rule against hitting the back of the head, MMA organizations aim to protect fighters from sustaining career-ending injuries that could hinder their future in the sport.
6. Reducing the Risk of Unintentional Fouls
During the heat of a fight, it is not uncommon for strikes to land in unintended areas. By prohibiting strikes to the back of the head, MMA organizations aim to reduce the risk of unintentional fouls. This rule helps fighters focus on striking legal target areas and avoids unnecessary penalties or disqualifications.
7. Ensuring Consistency with Other Combat Sports
The prohibition of strikes to the back of the head aligns MMA with other combat sports such as boxing and kickboxing. Consistency in rules across different combat sports makes it easier for fighters to transition between disciplines and ensures a level playing field for all competitors.
8. Promoting Fighter Safety
Ultimately, the ban on strikes to the back of the head is in place to prioritize fighter safety. MMA organizations have a responsibility to provide a safe environment for their fighters, and this rule is one of the measures taken to reduce the risk of severe injuries and protect the well-being of the athletes.
In conclusion, the prohibition of strikes to the back of the head in MMA serves multiple purposes. It protects the fighter’s brain and spinal cord, ensures fairness and sportsmanship, prevents eye injuries, preserves the fighter’s career, reduces the risk of unintentional fouls, aligns with other combat sports, and promotes fighter safety. By adhering to this rule, MMA organizations strive to create a safer and more enjoyable sport for both the athletes and the spectators.
