Technical and medical trends of upper limb submissions in mixed martial arts

Fighters experience substantial risks of injury in mixed martial arts (MMA). The aim of this study is to analyze data from Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) events to gain insight into the trends, techniques, and related injuries involved, specifically with upper limb submissions.

All upper extremity submissions in UFC pay-per-view (PPV) were examined and screened. Data was collected from all fights since 2001 that ended via an upper limb submission. Video analysis was performed to gain insight into submission and grappling technicalities, gender/weight-specific trends, and the incidence/characteristics of upper extremity injury. Statistical analyses were conducted to identify submission rate variances and trends.

During our study period, 2859 professional UFC fights occurred, with 523 ending in submissions (18.3%). Upper limb submissions accounted for 97/523 (18.5%), with the armbar being the most common technique (67%; P<0.001). Female fights were 3.03 times more likely to end in an upper extremity submission (P=0.044). During our study period, upper limb submission rates decreased with time (P<0.001). Videographic analysis was conducted for 80 out of 97 upper limb submissions (82.5%). Average time spent from grappling initiation to submission execution significantly increased over time (P<0.001). Serious injuries occurred in seven instances, and it took 10.33 months, on average, to return from time of injury.

Over the years, there has been a decline in the frequency of upper limb submissions, indicating a potential change in fighting tactics and defensive strategies. As the competitiveness of the sport continues to grow, fighters are taking longer to submit to their opponent despite being in vulnerable positions. It is integral to highlight submission-specific trends and risks in order to appropriately educate all associated staff on how to protect the well-being of each individual athlete.