why do they put vaseline on mma fighters

Why Do They Put Vaseline on MMA Fighters?

When watching mixed martial arts (MMA) fights, you may have noticed that between rounds, the cornermen apply Vaseline to the fighters’ faces. This practice has become a common sight in the sport, but have you ever wondered why they do it? In this article, we will explore the various reasons behind the use of Vaseline on MMA fighters.

1. Skin Protection

One of the primary reasons for applying Vaseline on MMA fighters is to protect their skin. During a fight, fighters are subjected to various strikes, including punches, elbows, and knees, which can cause cuts, abrasions, and other injuries. By applying a thin layer of Vaseline, the skin becomes slightly more slippery, reducing the friction between the skin and the opponent’s strikes. This can help minimize the severity of cuts and abrasions.

Furthermore, Vaseline forms a barrier that helps prevent sweat and blood from seeping into existing cuts or wounds, reducing the risk of infection.

2. Improved Vision

Another benefit of applying Vaseline on the face of MMA fighters is improved vision. During a fight, sweat and blood can easily get into the eyes, impairing the fighters’ vision and potentially affecting their performance. By applying Vaseline around the eyebrows and cheekbones, the cornermen create a barrier that helps prevent sweat and blood from running down into the eyes, allowing the fighters to maintain better visibility.

3. Psychological Advantage

The application of Vaseline can also provide a psychological advantage to MMA fighters. As they see their cornermen applying Vaseline, it serves as a reminder of their support team and the care they receive. This can boost their confidence and mental focus, helping them stay motivated and perform at their best.

4. Quick Application

Vaseline is a readily available and easily applicable substance. Its smooth texture allows cornermen to quickly and efficiently apply it between rounds, without wasting valuable time. This ensures that fighters can receive the benefits of Vaseline without delaying the fight.

5. Tradition and Ritual

The practice of applying Vaseline on fighters has become a tradition in MMA. It is a ritual that has been passed down from generation to generation, and its presence has become deeply ingrained in the sport. The familiarity of this practice can provide comfort and a sense of continuity for both the fighters and the audience.

6. Sponsorship Visibility

From a marketing perspective, the application of Vaseline on fighters’ faces can provide visibility for sponsoring brands. Vaseline is a well-known brand that often sponsors MMA events, and its logo is prominently displayed on the containers used by cornermen. This exposure can increase brand recognition and create a positive association between the brand and the sport.

7. Hydration and Moisturization

The application of Vaseline can help maintain the hydration and moisturization of the fighters’ skin. The physical exertion and intense training involved in MMA can deplete the skin of its natural moisture. By applying Vaseline, the skin’s moisture is sealed in, preventing excessive dryness and helping the fighters maintain healthy skin.

8. Tradition of Respect

Applying Vaseline on fighters’ faces is also a sign of respect between the cornermen and the fighters. It signifies that the cornermen are there to support and protect the fighters, both physically and emotionally. This tradition of respect fosters a strong bond between the fighters and their cornermen, creating a sense of trust and unity.

9. Preventing Facial Swelling

Vaseline can also help prevent facial swelling during a fight. When a fighter sustains strikes to the face, the impact can cause blood vessels to rupture, leading to swelling. By applying Vaseline, the cornermen create a slippery surface that can help minimize the impact and reduce the likelihood of excessive swelling.

10. Ease of Removal

After a fight, the Vaseline applied to the fighters’ faces can easily be wiped off, allowing for quick and efficient post-fight clean-up. This ensures that the fighters’ faces are cleaned and ready for any post-fight interviews or medical examinations.

In conclusion, the application of Vaseline on MMA fighters serves multiple purposes. It provides skin protection, improved vision, psychological advantages, and hydration. It is also deeply rooted in tradition and respect, while offering marketing opportunities for sponsoring brands. Overall, Vaseline plays a significant role in enhancing the performance and well-being of MMA fighters.