combatsport

Combat sport, or combat sports, refers to a broad category of competitive athletic activities in which two opponents engage in combat under a formal ruleset designed to balance safety with skill and intensity. Competitors may employ striking, grappling, or a combination of both, depending on the discipline. Events are typically organized in weight classes, use referees, and are conducted under standardized scoring and safety protocols. Protective equipment such as gloves, mouthguards, and groin protection is common in amateur competition; professional bouts may have different allowances.

Discipline ranges include striking arts (boxing, kickboxing, Muay Thai, karate, taekwondo, Lethwei), grappling arts (wrestling, judo, Brazilian jiu-jitsu), and hybrid systems (mixed martial arts). Some sports emphasize points and technique (judo, taekwondo), others are knockout-based (boxing), while MMA blends striking and grappling. Rulesets, gloves, bout length, and permissible techniques vary by organization and country.

Governing bodies establish weight classes, calendars, safety standards, and anti-doping rules. Amateur combat sports often have national federations and international bodies; professional circuits operate under athletic commissions or private promotions. Training combines conditioning, technique, strategy, and periodization, with medical oversight for injuries and weight management.

Debates surrounding combat sports frequently address safety, long-term health risks, gender equality, and the ethics of weight cutting and performance enhancement. Despite concerns, combat sports have broad international participation and influence, with significant cultural and economic aspects in gyms, competitions, and media events.