Health risks, injury mechanisms and long-term consequences of mixed martial arts – a literature review

Abstract

Background: Mixed martial arts (MMA) combines striking and grappling and permits intentional head blows, creating risks of acute and cumulative trauma despite modern regulations.

Aim: To review injury incidence, mechanisms, risk factors and long-term health consequences of MMA training and competition.

Materials and methods: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar were searched for peer-reviewed studies, reviews and case reports on MMA, injury, traumatic brain injury and chronic traumatic encephalopathy. Twenty-three sources were included.

Results: Injury rates ranged from 23.6 to 54.5 per 100 athlete-exposures, with the head and neck most often affected. Concussion incidence was approximately 14.7–16.1 per 100 athlete-exposures, while knockout statistics underestimated total concussive and subconcussive exposure. Rotational acceleration, facial strikes, repeated blows and delayed stoppage increased neurological risk. Heavier male fighters, older athletes, professionals, athletes with previous knockouts and losing fighters were especially vulnerable. Long-term effects included impaired memory and processing speed, psychomotor deficits, structural brain changes, sensory dysfunction and reduced quality of life.

Conclusions: MMA carries a high burden of acute and cumulative injury. Earlier stoppages, individualized medical suspensions, baseline testing, ringside care and long-term neurological monitoring are required, together with standardized prospective research.