Givin' it 200%

If you think that nothing can be more than 100%, you know nothing about the sport of Mixed Martial Arts.  It is 100% mental and 100% physical.  The reason I make this assertion is because when a fighter is in the ring, neither their mind or their body can drop below their full capabilities for even a second.  A lot of people think that the sport is "barbaric" but, the funny thing is, it never seems that way to those that choose to compete.

Like modern day Roman Gladiators they step out in front of the crowds willingly just to show the world what they are made of.  Every time they make the walk down the ramp of uncertainty, it is on par to a quarterback walking on the field for the "Big Game" (don't want to get sued) or the batter stepping up to the plate at bottom of the ninth with 2 men out.  It is a walk that lasts forever no matter what the outcome of what happens after entering the ring.

To be a fighter, one must be in relatively good shape, sharp witted and have a big heart.  You can't give up and win or lose you have to push yourself to get back into the ring next time.  I have seen a lot of fighters that have sluffed off after their first victory due to their giant heads and insane egos.  Many times the best fight comes after a loss. 

Either way, win or lose, a true competitor is gracious after each bout.  It's not just a sign of good sportsmanship but, a sign that even though they like to inflict pain, they aren't a monster.  I commend everyone that has ever had the guts to do what these guys do.  From Ken Shamrock and Hoyce Gracie to the future Hall of Famer of tomorrow, thank you for the hours of entertainment.  Don't forget, Julius Caesar built the Great Colosseum of Rome to distract its people from the fact that they were at war.  Just like fight promoters put up rings to help distract us from the problems we have in our lives today.  Good luck to the brave few that strive to be the best in something that very few know so little about.