Modern MMA striking is a melting pot of global martial arts. Fighters no longer rely on a single discipline — instead, they blend styles to create efficient, unpredictable striking systems.
Here are the 10 most influential striking styles in MMA today.
1. Muay Thai
Known as the “Art of Eight Limbs,” Muay Thai dominates MMA striking. Elbows, knees, clinch control, and devastating leg kicks make it indispensable.
2. Boxing
Elite boxing fundamentals remain essential. Fighters with crisp jabs, head movement, and timing often control exchanges and dictate pace.
3. Kickboxing
Kickboxing bridges boxing and Muay Thai, offering dynamic combinations and strong defensive movement.
4. Kung Fu
Kung Fu contributes footwork, angular attacks, and relaxed power. Its influence is often subtle but effective, especially in movement-heavy fighters.
5. Karate
Karate’s explosive entries and exits have proven extremely effective, particularly in fighters like Stephen Thompson and Lyoto Machida.
6. Taekwondo
High-level kicking techniques, speed, and flexibility make Taekwondo valuable when adapted for MMA.
7. Dutch Kickboxing
Combining boxing combinations with low kicks, Dutch Kickboxing thrives in high-pressure exchanges.
8. Savate
This French striking art brings unique kicking angles and precision footwork.
9. Sanda
Chinese Sanda blends striking with throws, making it highly transferable to MMA.
10. Traditional Martial Arts Blends
Many fighters now integrate multiple traditional arts, creating hybrid striking systems tailored to MMA’s demands.
