When Life Karate Kicks You in the Face: Vol. I

One of the most monumental moments, ever, in the history of mixed martial arts (MMA), was the night that UFC Middleweight champion Anderson Silva knocked out Vitor Belfort with a front kick to the face, when the two fought at UFC 126, in Las Vegas, on Feb. 5, 2011. 

If you have no idea what I'm talking about, check this out:

It wasn't the first time someone has been knocked out in the UFC. It wasn't the first time someone's been kicked in the head either. But the timing and precision of the way it came together made it a thing of beauty.

But not for Vitor Belfort.

For Belfort, it was one of the worst moments of his career. No fighter trains for months, spends countless hours away from his family, denies himself the pleasure of the food and beverages he loves...just so he can get knocked out by a karate kick in the very first round.

Sometimes life can be like that. 

Mixed Martial Arts for Dummies

I love mixed martial arts (MMA). It's a big part of who I am. I actually am employed, part-time, as a writer for an MMA website called MMA Mania. 

That said, I don't expect everyone to share my affinity for the sport. It's violent. It's still somewhat of a "fringe" attraction.

However, I find that there are many misconceptions about this sport that I follow and have to come to love. 

This is a primer. "MMA for Dummies." Today is the day of your education.