One of the most significant influences on early MMA was the rise of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). UFC 1’s champion, Royce Gracie, demonstrated the effectiveness of BJJ by defeating larger opponents with superior grappling and submission skills.
Gracie’s dominance sparked a revolution in the martial arts world, with practitioners of other disciplines seeking to learn BJJ techniques. The success of BJJ fighters in the early UFC events showcased the importance of ground fighting and grappling, prompting other fighters to incorporate BJJ into their training.
This shift in approach led to a more well-rounded style of fighting, as fighters began to combine striking techniques with grappling and submission skills. BJJ became a fundamental aspect of MMA, with many fighters today considering it essential for success in the cage.