While BJJ initially dominated the early UFC events, the sport soon witnessed the emergence of striking specialists who brought a new dimension to MMA. Fighters such as Maurice Smith, a kickboxing champion, demonstrated the effectiveness of striking techniques in the cage.
The rise of striking specialists led to a more diverse range of fighting styles within MMA. Fighters began to integrate techniques from boxing, Muay Thai, and other striking arts into their repertoire. This evolution added another layer of excitement and unpredictability to the fights.
Striking specialists showcased their skills through devastating knockouts, drawing attention from fans and elevating the standing of striking arts within the MMA community. The integration of striking and grappling became a hallmark of successful fighters, highlighting the importance of being well-versed in multiple disciplines.