But what differentiates MMA (and boxing) from these other sports is that the principal aim within the rules is to inflict violence on one’s opponent to win. Those in the pro-MMA (and boxing) camp are also quick to point out that deaths, in absolute terms, are higher in other high-risk sporting activities, such as sky diving, rugby, American football and horse racing. In response, advocates of MMA and boxing often champion the “character-building” qualities of the sport, suggesting they can foster discipline, a strong work ethic, respect for self and others, and offer “anger management therapy” for alienated young men. Both the American Medical Association and the British Medical Association have repeatedly called for a ban on boxing and, more recently, MMA. In addition to the theological objections to MMA, there’s a wealth of medical evidence that demonstrates the risk of traumatic brain injury, psychiatric conditions, concussion, irreversible neurological dysfunction and even death. 6:19), what would be the theological basis for the acceptance of brutal and intentional violence against the body and soul (Matt 6:22-23) in MMA competition? Finally, if the body is the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor. Second, the centrality of the call to non-violence in the teachings of Jesus seems to be fundamentally incompatible with MMA. According to the Bible, humans are made in the image of God – imago Dei – and thus, in the sight of God, human personhood has incredible grandeur and dignity. “And as a pastor, as a bible teacher, I think God made men masculine… Men are made for combat, men are made for conflict, men are made for dominion.”Ī moment’s theological reflection, however, raises a host of ethical quandaries and paradoxes for the theologian or thoughtful Christian.Ĭore biblical teachings challenge the uncritical acceptance and justification of MMA. “I don’t think that there is anything purer than putting two men in a cage…and just seeing which man is better,” Driscoll said. It’s this perception of “Jesus as fighter” that is at the heart of the Christian MMA ethos, one eagerly embraced by Mark Driscoll, a well-known, US-based evangelical pastor and MMA supporter.
Can violence and scripture be reconciled? “ Jesus Didn’t Tap,” they proclaim, referring to the act of submission. Yet MMA religious communities have refashioned Muscular Christianity to a new level of high-octane biblical masculinity. Like their Victorian forefathers, these organizations champion sport as a way to attract young men to faith in an age when the decline of church male membership has been well-documented. Muscular Christianity originated in 19th century England.
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