| Mixed martial arts in Mexico | |
|---|---|
| Country | Mexico |
| Governing body | Federación de Artes Marciales Mixtas Equidad y Juego Limpio (FAMMEJL) [1] |
| National team | Mexico |
Mixed martial arts in Mexico became very popular in the 2000s, being one of the fastest growing sports in that country. [2] [3]
Traditional martial arts, from national ones such as lucha tarahumara (Tarahumara wrestling) [4] to those from other places such as judo, have shaped MMA in Mexico, along with other combat sports such as boxing and taekwondo, in which the country has stood out considerably. [5] [6]
In November 2014, the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) would hold its first event on Mexican soil with UFC 180 at the Mexico City Arena. [7] Tickets were sold out in just 8 hours, which is a record for the venue. [8] [9]
The major MMA organizations in Mexico are LUX Fight League, [10] Ultimate Warrior Challenge Mexico [11] and Budo Sento Championship. [12]
At the amateur level, The Federación de Artes Marciales Mixtas Equidad y Juego Limpio (lit. Federation of Mixed Martial Arts Equity and Fair Play), is the main governing body for the sport of MMA and the promotion of the sport in Mexico, [1] supported and recognized by the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF). Its current president is Ubaldo Marroquin. [13]
The UFC is the most widely watched organization, and its events are broadcast live on Fox Sports on cable television; and also for the UFC Fight Pass streaming service. [14]