Expect only the unexpected, as one of the purest forms of entertainment comes to the Super Arena.
UFC Fight Night is back in Japan, for the seventh time since its debut on these shores in 1993, and will be taking over the Saitama Super Arena on September 20 with a line-up of some of the biggest names in the MMA fighting world. Even if you’re new to fighting sports, it won’t take you long to see that this is one of the purest forms of entertainment out there, and the no-holds-barred battles will have your adrenaline levels up and set your heart pumping.
This action draws fans from all walks of life, and is usually a popular draw for the celebrity set as well: at past UFC events around the world, we’ve seen the likes of such stars as Leonardo DiCaprio, Will Smith and his family, Mike Tyson, Janet Jackson, Arnold Schwarzenegger and many more.
And even if you’re not ringside (or Octagon-side) yourself, you can feel a rush that is hard to disassociate with. Whether you’re at the stadium, right at the heart of action and hearing the roar of the crowds, or catching up on your favorite fighter’s recent bouts, the passion and dedication of these well trained fighters will hit you. It is human nature to be engulfed in a dangerous and aggressive spectacle where every moment is unpredictable.
We spoke to headline fighter Roy “Big Country” Nelson, who will fight against heavyweight rival Mark Hunt. He explained why some may be anxious about watching the competitions. “Anything people don’t understand can be scary. Our sport is scary because someone can be hurt, but people love to watch the unexpected as long as it not happening to them.”
Before attending the event, make sure you familiarize yourself with some MMA lingo. You might even be able to surprise people with your in-depth knowledge.
Ankle Pick
Not as cute as you would imagine someone picking at your ankles would be. It is a variation of the single leg takedown. In order to perform an ankle pick, the attacker grabs and elevates their opponent’s ankles off the mat, before either lifting or driving through.
Haymaker
A wild, fight-changing power punch. (see Nelson, Roy)
Cauliflower Ear
Defined as “the calcification of the ear from repeated contact during grappling,” it is a type of deformation of the ear, common in MMA fighters. We don’t recommend searching for images before eating cauliflower for dinner.
No Contest
The outcome of a fight that prematurely ends due to unforeseen circumstances, with no winner at the end.
Turtle
The act of balling up on elbows and knees in a grounded position, similar to a, you guessed it, turtle. This is to prevent an opponent’s strike and makes you feel safe in your own little world—that is, until they slowly pick you apart and defeat you.
UFC FIGHT NIGHT JAPAN
The event will be held at the Saitama Super Arena on Saturday, September 20. Tickets can now be purchased here
