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Mixed martial arts aims for Olympic inclusion without cage violence

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 22, 2026, 7:31 AM

Last updated Sep 22, 2026

Mixed martial arts aims for Olympic inclusion without cage violence

Summary

Mixed martial arts (MMA) is pursuing entry into the 2032 Brisbane Olympics, led by Chinese billionaire Gordon Tang. A modified version of MMA, referred to as 'MMA Light', is currently being showcased at the Asian Games. This iteration emphasizes athlete safety and eliminates the traditional cage, aligning more closely with Olympic values. The International Olympic Committee has stated that MMA currently does not meet eligibility criteria, mainly due to the sport's violent image. Tang and the Federation of International Mixed Martial Arts plan to engage with the IOC to advocate for the sport's inclusion in future Games.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Key Details

•MMA Light is featured at the ongoing Asian Games.
•The sport focuses on safety and aligns with Olympic values.
•The IOC currently does not recognize MMA for Olympic competition.
•Tang has previous experience within the Olympic Movement.
•Brisbane 2032 is the target for potential inclusion.

Latest Updates

7:31 AMYahoo Sports — Mixed martial arts -- without the wire cage and the blood -- bids to make the Olympics

What they're saying

"
Mixed martial arts — without the wire cage and with less blood and mayhem — could be coming to the Olympics. The campaign to get the sport into the Brisbane Olympics in 2032 is being led by Chinese billionaire Gordon Tang. “We have developed a rule set specifically focused on the safety and well-being of athletes, and aligned with Olympic values," Tang said.
— Yahoo Sportsby STEPHEN WADE

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