Recently Joe Rogan and Sean O’Malley argued that boxing was a lot worse than MMA in terms of damage. Their conversation flies contrary to a ton of video evidence that has emerged over the years.
While there are many different injuries in MMA, perhaps none are as stunning to see as catastrophic leg breaks akin to what Conor McGregor famously went through in the 3rd bout against Dustin Poirier.
Nothing better encapsulates the unpredictable nature of MMA than a recently released video showing a mixed martial artist fracturing his leg on the very first striking exchange.
The video went viral. It shows two competitors sparring casually in the center of the ring at what seems to be a small-hall MMA event. Both guys take a step back after shaking hands and bumping gloves respectfully before the match starts.
However, it did not last long as the smaller athlete launched a leg kick. It also becomes evident that his opponent’s leg has been fractured as he steps back.
The man with the fractured leg is then shown in the footage writhing about on the ground as his opponent hides his face in his hands and watches in despair.
Conor McGregor’s leg break during his trilogy bout with Dustin Poirier in July of last year is comparable to this.
As are leg breaks that Chris Weidman underwent against Anderson Silva.
Oddly enough, Silva also had a catastrophic leg break early on in a bout – his was against Uriah Hall.