pankratiasts

Pankratiasts were athletes who competed in the pankration, an ancient Greek combat sport. The pankration was introduced into the Olympic Games in 648 BCE. It was a brutal and exciting event that combined boxing and wrestling, with very few rules. Fighters could strike with fists, elbows, knees, and feet, and also grapple, choke, and throw their opponents. The only prohibitions were biting and gouging at the eyes. Matches typically ended when one competitor submitted or was rendered unconscious.

The word "pankration" itself comes from the Greek words "pan" meaning "all" and "kratos" meaning "strength" or "power," effectively meaning "all-strength." This name reflects the comprehensive nature of the sport, demanding both striking and grappling skills. Pankratiasts trained rigorously to develop their physical prowess, endurance, and tactical understanding of combat. Legendary figures like Milo of Croton, a six-time Olympic victor, were renowned pankratiasts. The sport was popular throughout the ancient Greek world and its Hellenistic successors, with competitions held at various festivals and games. Its legacy can be seen as a precursor to modern mixed martial arts.