Why is Aikido Not Used in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA)?

Aikido, a Japanese martial art, is often noticeably absent from the list of disciplines seen in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) matches. This absence has led many to question why Aikido is not used in MMA. The reasons are multifaceted, ranging from the nature of Aikido’s training to the rules of MMA.

Aikido’s Training and Philosophy

Aikido is often referred to as the “art of peace” because it emphasizes harmony and avoidance of conflict. It’s a defensive martial art that focuses on using an opponent’s strength and momentum against them. The underlying philosophy of Aikido involves doing no harm to others, which contrasts sharply with the win-at-all-costs mentality often seen in MMA.

Aikido training is not based on sparring, which means it doesn’t provide fighters with a sense of what to expect during a real MMA match. This lack of practical, combat-oriented training can leave Aikido practitioners unprepared for the fast-paced and dynamic environment of an MMA fight.

Rules and Techniques

MMA is a rules-based sport where certain techniques are not allowed. Many techniques used in Aikido, such as grabbing the opponent or holding their gloves or shorts, are not permitted in MMA. This restriction significantly limits the effectiveness of Aikido in an MMA setting.

Moreover, some trademark techniques of Aikido involve joint manipulation and throws. While these techniques can be effective in certain situations, they require a high level of precision and control that may be difficult to achieve in the heat of an MMA match.

Perception and Reputation

Aikido has gained a reputation for being impractical or ineffective in an MMA setting. This perception likely stems from the contrast between Aikido’s peaceful philosophy and the brutal reality of MMA fights. Employing Aikido in an MMA match would be akin to bringing a knife to a gunfight.

Despite its limited use in MMA, it’s important to note that Aikido still holds value as a martial art. It offers unique insights into conflict resolution and self-defense. However, its principles and techniques may not align with the demands and rules of MMA.

Aikido in MMA: Exceptions to the Rule

While Aikido is not widely used in MMA, there are exceptions. Some fighters have incorporated elements of Aikido into their arsenal, such as wrist locks and joint manipulations, which can be adapted to work in an MMA context. However, these instances are rare and often involve fighters who have trained in multiple martial arts disciplines.

The Benefits of Aikido

Despite its perceived limitations in MMA, Aikido offers numerous benefits. It is a very practical martial art that has been used for many purposes, including self-defense, law enforcement, military, and sport. Aikido focuses on self-defense with the main goal of protecting oneself and one's partner from an attacker. There are many different techniques in Aikido that can be used in real fights.

The Perception of Aikido in the Martial Arts Community

Aikido has been around for almost 100 years and is taught by the Japanese government. It is one of the most popular martial arts in the world and was named the ninth-most practiced martial art in the world, above Judo and just below the Israeli Krav Maga. However, it has gained a reputation for being impractical or ineffective in an MMA setting. This perception likely stems from the contrast between Aikido's peaceful philosophy and the brutal reality of MMA fights.

Aikido in the Eyes of MMA Fighters

While Aikido is not widely used in MMA, it’s interesting to note the perspective of MMA fighters on this martial art. Some MMA fighters have expressed respect for the principles and techniques of Aikido, even if they find them not directly applicable in the cage. For instance, contemporary UFC middleweight, Nick Diaz, is a notable student of Aikido along with several other martial arts.

Aikido’s Effectiveness in Real-Life Situations

Despite its perceived limitations in MMA, Aikido has been proven to be highly effective in a number of real-life situations. The techniques are designed to avoid a fight, not to win one. In other words, the techniques are designed to cause the attacker to lose balance and fall over, rather than to kill them. This makes it incredibly difficult to attack someone who uses Aikido.

The Future of Aikido in MMA

While Aikido may not currently have a significant presence in MMA, the future could hold different possibilities. As MMA continues to evolve and incorporate diverse fighting styles, there may be room for the principles and techniques of Aikido to find their place in this dynamic sport.

Conclusion

Aikido, with its unique philosophy and techniques, holds a significant place in the world of martial arts. While it may not be a common sight in the MMA arena, its principles of harmony, conflict avoidance, and using an opponent’s strength against them offer valuable insights into conflict resolution and self-defense.

The effectiveness of Aikido in real-life situations and its potential for adaptation by MMA fighters suggest that this martial art has much to offer beyond the confines of traditional Aikido dojos. As MMA continues to evolve, there may yet be a place for Aikido in this dynamic and ever-changing sport.

In the end, the value of a martial art is not solely determined by its prevalence in MMA matches. Each martial art, including Aikido, offers unique benefits and insights that can enrich the practitioner’s life and personal growth journey. Despite its limited presence in MMA, Aikido remains a respected and valuable martial art worldwide.