The Need For Greater Regulatory Oversight Of Japanese Mixed Martial Arts
Ian Murphy was in over his head from the start, and the fact that he was even allowed to participate at the DREAM 2 MMA card against Ronaldo Jacare demonstrates the lack of significant regulatory oversight in Japanese fight sports. The Japanese fight culture, rooted in sumo and continued through pro wrestling and mixed martial arts is extremely backwards and particularly concerning the well being of the fighters. With the exception of top stars, most fighters are viewed as interchangeable commodities. Mandatory drug testing doesn’t exist, and individual promoters do little elective testing. In some cases even the simplest steps to protect the fighters’ safety are not taken.