In the heart of the Rocky Mountains, a fervor for combat sports has been steadily growing. Colorado, a state known for its stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures, has also become a hotbed for a different kind of thrill – Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). But why is MMA so popular in Colorado right now?
A Rich History of Combat Sports
Colorado has a long and storied history with combat sports. It’s home to some legendary boxing gyms and has produced numerous professional boxers. This rich tradition has easily translated into the rise of MMA. The first UFC event was right here, in Denver.
Local Talent
Colorado boasts a thriving community of MMA fighters and gyms, many of whom have risen to prominence on the national and international stage. Local talent like Justin Gaethje and Cory Sandhagen have become household names, inspiring the next generation of fighters. Many fighters have made the move to Colorado to pursue their fight careers such as Curtis Blaydes. While others travel to Colorado for their training camp and return to their home after the fight. Alistair Overeem spent his camps in the mountains to reap the benefits of the high altitude and the world class training and training partners.
The Altitude Advantage
Colorado’s high altitude gives fighters a unique advantage. Training at altitude can lead to increased cardiovascular endurance, which is crucial in MMA. Many fighters from across the world come to Colorado to prepare for their bouts. Find out more about the benefits of training at high altitude.
A Supportive Fan Base
Colorado has passionate sports fans, and MMA is no exception. The state hosts various MMA events, attracting fans from all over. The enthusiastic support for local fighters creates a vibrant atmosphere during fights. Almost every weekend, fans can catch live events watching the up and coming local fighters. UFC and One Championship has hosted sold out crowds in Colorado multiple times.
A Diverse Range of Gyms
Colorado boasts a diverse range of MMA gyms, from Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academies to Muay Thai studios. This variety caters to fighters of all backgrounds and interests, making it an attractive destination for MMA enthusiasts. The Elevation Team is based out of High Altitude Martial Arts in Denver, Colorado. Factory X is also a big gym in Colorado. Scattered across the state, there are hundreds of academies for beginners as well as pros.
A Sense of Community
MMA fosters a strong sense of community among its practitioners. The camaraderie and mutual respect in the gyms have drawn people from different walks of life, contributing to the sport’s popularity. MMA brings the best of all martial artists together. Fans can watch their favorites arts. Fighters can fight in their favorite styles.
Media and Social Media Coverage
The rise of digital media and social platforms has allowed fighters and gyms to gain more visibility. Fighters from Colorado are increasingly using these channels to showcase their skills and connect with fans.
The popularity of MMA in Colorado is a culmination of its rich history with combat sports, the presence of local talent, the advantages of training at high altitude, passionate fans, the influence of the UFC, diverse training options, a strong sense of community, and the power of modern media. As the Mile High State continues to embrace the sport, MMA is bound to stay firmly rooted in Colorado’s cultural landscape.
