Mixed Martial Arts, commonly called MMA, is a multi-discipline class, incorporating striking, grappling, and ground fighting techniques.  MMA, first referred to as such during UFC 1, has quickly grown in popularity, becoming as prevalent as boxing over the last three decades. MMA began to determine the most effective martial art, pitting competitors from different fighting styles against one another. While it became clear that certain martial arts were more effective than others, combatants quickly realized that combining martial arts styles produced the highest chance of victory. Thus, MMA was born.