Why Watching MMA Strips Human Dignity

[@kallenijs]

Good point, good video. I'm an aspiring mma athlete who would love to compete on the big screen. I consume a lot of fighting videos as education, and would hope that people watching me are also trying to learn something.. but as you pointed out, most of the time that's not the case. My question to you is - why should someone refrain or avoid watching this entirely? Understanding martial arts has helped me look at combat without bloodlust, simply appreciating the 'art'. If we are afraid that our society is getting too violent, should we forbid the viewing of violence, or should we educate people about it? This comes back to your points about everyone learning to defend themselves - if we did, everyone would be able to 'responsibly' watch fights, and you wouldn't have to forbid it.

[@GrzegorzDurda]

Fighting is heavily mixed with philosophy and is a true at form. The philosophical peak in this art form is to never fight at all.

[@GrzegorzDurda]

2 People whacking each other in the head and face is giving into a lower state of humanity. No matter how nice the dance its people beating each other up for a living. And the more spectacular the violence and more the crowd cheers, the more blood and guts the better a chance for a rematch. A human dog fight.

[@GrzegorzDurda]

Mr.Anderson - But you ask questions you know the answers to. The matrix has you. ;)

[@GrzegorzDurda]

Mr Anderson - Thank you sir :) But i am nothing without an audience.

[@tonyvu7246]

You haven't addressed the actual people getting hurt in the arena. Why not have them fight with soft headgear? Why not wear some light sparring gear for protection? That way, we can still be educated and can still enjoy the art of the martial art. What about when muscles are strained, ligaments are torn, and there is bleeding? Is there no responsibility to protect one's body? And where do you draw the line between how much physical pain and destruction is okay and how much is not? And how do you ensure that the players don't cross the line when they're in the ring? So let's address your main question: why should we refrain from watching MMA? If we don't watch it, they don't get money. If they don't get money, they stop hurting each other. Anyone serious about getting education will know that there are alternatives.

[@Nick-sl3ws]

joe rogans reaction to this would be priceless

[@judahsoremy9857]

Everything that comes out of that drone's mouth is ensconced in ignorance.

[@cassie1421]

Judah Soremy weed tends to do that to people

[@judahsoremy9857]

@@cassie1421 So does delusion.

[@emiriega]

@@judahsoremy9857 do you actually listen to his podcast? Or are you basing this on soundbites?

[@wach_4290]

Judah Soremy you sound like someone who doesn’t spend a lot of time shaving his neck area

[@mikeewoody]

As an accomplished martial artist of over 35 years and also a follower of Christ I thank you for your video!!! Well spoken, and so very true. God bless you.

[@BOBlolema67]

My 21 year old son just made that same connection with reality tv shows like American Idol. He said he watched it once, during the auditions and couldn't believe how people would encourage their loved ones, with no musical talent or ability, to put themselves in a international stage to be laughed at, mocked, for the entertainment of others. He said it was not much different than the gladiators. I've never liked "reality" tv but now I know why. Hurting others, physically or emotionally, for our own entertainment is disgusting and wrong.

[@Ranger4402]

I politely disagree here. I do not watch MMA. I am Catholic. What about boxing, judo and tae kwon do? All three are Olympic sports. Judo is a college Club Sport. For me the major difference is those who participate in these sports consent to it. In the days of the Roman Empire those that enter gladitorial combat were not necessarily willing participants. That to me is the major difference. We can argue if MMA is a proper sport. We may even question the wisdom of people who participate in it. But, like all sports it is voluntary not forced participation. That is an important distinction.

[@frankenstein6677]

In many occasions, gladiators were there for choice, but I get you. There were slaves included in there.

[@overcomernetwork202]

Does the Olympic authority superseded that of Christ? Heavenly Father hates violence. Know you not that you were bought with a price, the Blood of Jesus. These bodies don't belong to us to tear up. Thou shalt not temp the The Most High.

[@joelancon7231]

@@overcomernetwork202 have you read the Bible God doesn't hate violence he hates specifically MURDER that is killing an innocent person without any very good reason; this is to the exclusion of things like self defence or animals. Here are some examples in the Bible of permisable death: David and Goliath, Saul and the city, Battle of Jericho. Jesus himself said "I have not come to bring peace but the sword." Bad argument with a bunch of hogwash blended to form a semi-Biblical KJV/DRMs paragraph. Also citing the quote from first Corinthians "know ye not that ye were bought with a price" is a terrible argument since Paul was very clearly talking about sexual immorality exclusively, nothing else.

[@overcomernetwork202]

@@joelancon7231 Psalm 11:5 The LORD examines the righteous, but the wicked, those who love violence, he hates with a passion.

[@Mrraerae]

@@overcomernetwork202 I wouldn´t say that it´s violence in the general sense of the word if two people get into a ring willingly and have a fair contest of martial arts skills and physical prowess. People who fight love to train and improve at it, and people want to challenge themselves. Going into a fight, let´s say a MMA match, is the ultimate challenge for someone that loves to train. You have agreed upon rules and impartial people around to enforce them to make it fair and as safe as possible, and no one is forced to participate, an opponent of similar skill and experience is matched up. Most people who have a couple amateur MMA fights or something don´t get in there because they want to give someone a brain injury. They want to put the things they have trained for years to the test against another person who has also done that. Can you get hit and not get hit? Can you submit the other person with a choke or a joint lock without getting caught in one yourself? If you do get hit or put into a bad position or you get tired can you keep going or will you crumble under the pressure? Will you panic? Most people who fight in combat sports do it because it´s a challenge and they love to do it not because they enjoy injuring people all the time. The point is to win the contest not necessarily hurt the other person although that can often happen (which is why both participants must be willing and able), that´s why there´s a time limit and a winner is chosen even if neither person is badly hurt and both are able to continue. If it was just about hurting people fights wouldn´t have rounds, it would just go until one person is so hurt and exhausted that they´re incapable of continuing

[@jamesrodgers9417]

Couldn't agree more. Having trained for over 25 years, I see the futility of fighting for someone else's gratification. It brings our whole society down. Fighting sucks, hurting another human being who is someone's child, brother, sister etc. is the lowest we can be.

[@Ricardo-mr3bg]

Great comment, bro. BTW, which sport did you train?

[@Ricardo-mr3bg]

Great comment. I've trained and coach for 18 years and I say the same. Not all martial arts are the same, but many are not so different from MMA in this aspect, that's for sure.

[@FM-dm8xj]

Well no. fighting is good.

[@aureum7479]

@Early90sKidsEntertainmentMartial Arts are good

[@loafieyou]

Think about it. Fighting is slave activiity. In the past the slaves were the ones who fought to the death or gave eachother brain damage for the kings and rich people to enjoy. It reminds me of that Chael Sonnen quote about how you shouldn't respect a man who goes into a metal cage and fights for others amusement

[@Speedcuber6969]

I was apprehensive about watching this video because I do appreciate the mma skill. But I 100% agree with you. I think its awful to enjoy watching someone else getting hurt

[@PantheraOnca60]

When I was a very young man I was a Golden Gloves level boxer; in those days I would have disagreed with this video. I knew how to really injure someone, enough to knock them off their feet, even perhaps render him unconscious, just with two fists. I didn't just hit hard, I hit very, very fast. Having gone into law enforcement and the military when I got a bit older, and through this having learned lessons about power relationships, seeing how people sought to dominate one another in all kinds of situations, and, most importantly, learning what real violence is, I also learned what violence is for. And it isn't for entertainment. Fighting with "rules" for other people's enjoyment is an abomination. Violence is for inflicting injury. In the real world, it's about life and death. Father, you are absolutely, 100 percent right.

[@choomp2636]

Fighting with rules is just a sport not an abomination. I don't think you were a boxer at all because you would understand

[@Anthony-rv7ru]

Bruh you literally fight for oil dont talk to me about right or wrong you puppet

[@PantheraOnca60]

@@Anthony-rv7ru "Fight for oil." Okay. Whatever that means.

[@Ricardo-mr3bg]

@@choomp2636 You've never stepped into a ring, son.

[@tysondance7476]

@@PantheraOnca60 it means 911... “weapons of mass destruction?” Did you forget? Why is it that the younger generation knows these things? Along with the 3rd building. There were no weapons of mass destruction. This invasion was for oil as well as peddling weapons in the Middle East to certain factions that we may have or not created.

[@roarrman]

Not the words I wanted to hear. But the ones I needed

[@StevinHabba]

I noticed someone commented that people get hurt and die from other sports as well, like football, soccer, etc., yes, but the purpose of football and other sports is not to injure others, the injury is a secondary consequence of the main goal which is to score a touch down, field goal, etc., in MMA and UFC, the actual main purpose is to harm the other human being, and that is different, thank you.

[@pauljohnsonii950]

That's not the point, the point is to make the opponent submit or lose. If you want to get rid of MMA then every other sport besides non-contact ones must be banned as well.

[@jonathanfairchild]

I'm not sure that's the point. Fr. Mike never said losing is the bad thing. Actually, I think he'd say losing is a good thing because it builds humility. Losing in a normal contact sport isn't the same as the domination he's talking about. In football you defend the ball from the opponent while getting a TD. One can safely be tackled or blocked. Granted these do result in injury some times. But the fact that football and virtually all contact sports rules are changing to make it more safe proves that they want to safely play the game. However, the point of MMA is to harm the opponent until they cannot fight or until they are unconscious. You can't safely punch someone in the face repeatedly. Losing in NLF or NBA or whatever usually doesn't result in serious lasting injury. Losing in MMA very likely could cause significant bodily harm. Domination =/= losing in the context of contact sports.

[@joshuam1376]

Stevin No, the goal is to score points.

[@anaconda_mma]

"To Harm other human being" - Incorrect. you can argue the same with Football, Boxing, Wrestling, Rugby, sheesh even Fencing. MMA isnt about harming another brother, MMA is the competition between two fighters to compete to show superior Strategy, Fighting IQ, Technique and Athleticism. There is a Ref, There are RULES, Gloves and Doctors there to PROTECT the competitor, and at the end of every fight nothing but Love, Respect and praise is shown to your opponent and to christian competitors the Glory of victory is given to the LORD. you people need to educate yourself in Combat sports before making bold statements and best believe this christian who strives to be righteous will continue competing in this life AND THE NEXT

[@leann123]

I'm not sure if you're misinformed or something but look how long footballers(NOT SOCCER) lives and compare it to boxers/mma.

[@edstraker8451]

Well said Father Mike. As a Muslim, I agree with the premise of your argument. Watching violence between two consenting adults can bring out the worst in us. Something some people struggle to control on a daily basis. Sex is, perhaps another activity that has trivialised & commercialised into banality. In the end though, we need to be aware that we are responsible for our own actions & how these impact on others. Peace to you!

[@awesomelipe8396]

"ARE YOU NOT ENTERTAINED? "- Maximus

[@matthewbriggs3206]

I love MMA, LOVE it! It's my favorite sport. And you make an excellent point. The point of Christianity is humility not dominance. The concept of physically dominating another human being through violence, whether there is bloodlust or not, strips human dignity. I've never been able to see this until now. Physical dominance through force and violence exalts pride, the ambition of self; the point of following Christ is to deny self, take up your cross, and following him. I love martial arts and any form there of; however, I realize that I must sacrifice this because that is what Christ has called us to do.

[@ManifestingADream]

Practice Martial Arts, but make sure you watch the streams cracked because you don’t want to give them any money.

[@antonpohrebniak]

Yes! Keep practicing in the gym, make sure do not go full force in sparrings and it's good enough. If you can sacrifice this big part of your life, you are a good Christian. I'm trying to do that also now, after being a fan for 15 years. God bless you, brother ❤☦✝️🕊

[@egthedisciple]

I was a pro fighter we retired about a week ago because I got the conviction

[@zadeh79]

MMA is just a contact sport, and statistics show it's relatively just as safe as most others. The problem is that for 40,000 years people have associated 'fighting' with 'violence'. But MMA is not violence.

[@OneRandomCommunity]

Thanks for the video Father Mike. I have to admit, watching the video, I wanted to retaliate at what you were saying. I grew up in a Filipino family where we came together to watch the Pac-Man fights. And I enjoyed them. But, there were times where I knew something felt wrong. So, thank you for bringing this spectrum of entertainment to light. I think this video calls us, as we should do always, to examine if our entertainment and recreation is under the Lordship of Jesus.

[@xy9673]

This is a really excellent stand and explanation. Thank you for making this video.

[@daishafreeman1509]

I dislike that what you say makes sense here. I have loved MMA, UFC style sports for years and will never be able to think of them in the same way. Thanks for apologizing at the end though, lol. And thanks for telling us what we need to hear, even if it's not what we want to hear.

[@reasonrules7768]

Bob, so what about pornography? Should someone watch pornography because they love it even though Father says that it's bad? There's a reason that he says it's bad and it's a good reason.

[@daishafreeman1509]

Thank you for your advice, but as I stated, his words made sense as I listened to him. It's no different than a friend giving me advice. If it makes sense to me then why wouldn't I take the advice? If it doesn't make sense to me then I don't take the advice. That's just my way of thinking though, I also believe in to each their own. 😉

[@dana-marieparris8602]

+Daisha Freeman Praise God someone took it the right way! I agree with you fully I'm not a MMA fan but my family watches WWE lol yh i no it's fake and all but I love what you said "I'm glad tht I'm hearing this even tho it's something I don't want to hear."

[@dana-marieparris8602]

+Reason Rules thts a really great point! :)

[@sirtinley-knot2944]

Daisha Freeman well done! 👍

[@mug5022]

I agree with what you say. The only time I ever really hurt people is to protect others and myself.

[@stephenmandesthomas3377]

Looking forward to your video on how professional boxing, high school and college wrestling, Olympic judo and tae kwon do "strip human dignity."

[@Ricardo-mr3bg]

College wrestling and Judo don't strip human dignity because the main purpose in these sports IS NOT to hurt your opponent.

[@JordanCantFight]

@@Ricardo-mr3bg neither is mma🤦🏽‍♂️

[@Ricardo-mr3bg]

@@JordanCantFight It is.

[@oscarbarrientos1611]

@@Ricardo-mr3bg it’s not though, you can dominate someone for all 3 or 5 rounds without even punching them in the face, the the point is to see who has better skills and test yourself.

[@drainzs]

I agree, but for me i am not entertained by the violence, i am entertained by the skill of the fighters.

[@primitivojdavis]

“If I just ruined your day I apologize”lol😂

[@PurplDrank]

Dude, you mention nothing about Boxing (which has been in existence far longer than MMA). With boxing, those guys are forced to stand there and punch eachother. with MMA, you have options, you can grapple you can wrestle. Mixed Martial Arts isn't entertainment, for guys like me who has been doing a form of MMA for 3 years I can tell you the skill some of these men and women have is spectacular. These men and women are true professional athletes, they have nutritionists and strength and conditioning coaches. I do understand some of the fights look like a brawl, but i invite you to watch some MMA fights that are skillful such as the following: Lyoto Machida vs Randy Couture (you can find on youtube) Minotauro Nogeira vs Frank Mir (excellent display of technical Brazilian Jiu Jitsu skill)

[@neutrino78x]

Yeah but there's no intellectual or spiritual depth to what they do. It's all about violence and intimidation. They don't embrace the Light. Just look at how they behave at weigh-ins. Contrast that with real martial arts. At a martial arts tournament, as opposed to an MMA tournament, you are not allowed to pump your arm "yes!". If you do, you're kicked out. You have to bow and be quiet and respectful.

[@Snake_holiday]

@@neutrino78x MMA is "real martial arts", its martial arts that have been tried and tested in real combat. Not every fighter is a brute focused on violence and intimidation. There are many fighters that truly embody the principles of a martial artist, people like George St Pierre, Khabib Nurmagomedov, or Valentina Shevchenko. Most fighters show the upmost respect to their opponents after the bout, often bowing and hugging each other once all is said and done. By the sound of it, you don't watch much of this sport. I encourage you to expose yourself before making quick judgements about the character of these men and women.

[@neutrino78x]

@@Snake_holiday No, a real martial art is for example Karate. It is effective fighting AND it offers spiritual and intellectual aspects. Without those aspects it is not "martial arts". It's just a "fighting system" or "combat sport". Western boxing and western wrestling, and MMA, are fighting systems but not "martial arts".

[@willie5958]

Ban them both! Simple!

[@loganshaffer5160]

@@neutrino78x Wow talk about a reply that just shows you clearly don’t understand the sport of mma. MMA has a lot of intellectual aspects when it comes to technique and thinking. George St pier is a good example. He displays a lot of humbleness in his interviews all the time. Even saying that his affect on the world is very minuscule. Also not all martial arts focus on spiritual aspects. Some just focus on building ones body and fighting abilities not to mention that you can learn good character from mma and be taught how to be responsible with your abilities.

[@imommtube]

Nothing to apologize for is just the truth thanks a lot Fr Mike

[@angelataylor2604]

My rule of thumb re. what I watch is would Christ be comfortable sitting beside me watching this? Simple!

[@applejuice5635]

Angela Taylor Jesus loves knockouts.

[@0hn0haha]

That's why I watch MMA

[@jacksturdivant4696]

Jesus bets with me every Saturday

[@benjafranklin5996]

You just made the case for mma

[@OriginalPuro]

This is how you find stupid people, ask them if they're religious. "would christ be comfortable", hahahahaha, it's so pathetic I can't even fathom how one can dig so low on the IQ scale.

[@renisonm4400]

I am a boxer and an MMA fighter and a catholic Christian. I would have never been the man I am without this sport. It gave me discipline but most importantly it gave me the confidence to be able to face most of the human beings without any fear or hesitation as I am able to do bad things to them if I choose to but thats not the righteous thing to do as a christian. So I thank Jesus for making me a good person.

[@sampainter05]

HunTeR I’m starting MMA and I’m Catholic. Do you have any tips for me? Should I quit, or should I continue?

[@renisonm4400]

@@sampainter05 when people hear about martial arts they only think about kicking , punching and blood. Its not bad until you take it to the streets. People who do that are not fighters. If you enjoy this sport like I do. If it has made you a happier person. Don't let anyone stop you . now get out there and Train.

[@sampainter05]

HunTeR thanks for the advice 👍

[@plattyplatt]

When I saw the title of this video, I just nodded my head. This is something I wanted to hear about (especially from Fr. Mike)!

[@libraryofthemind]

So you've been waiting to hear from someone else what you already believe in? sounds like an echo chamber... good for your thinking abilities.

[@BL_762]

I love MMA when both fighters respect/love each other. Makes me proud to be a human seeing two people shake hands, hug, and smile after beating each other up.

[@lukedavison6070]

Its not for someone else’s entertainment, MMA is a sport just like soccer or baseball we do it because we love it, we dont watch it to watch people get beat up, we watch it for the competition

[@ossra100]

That’s not an excuse for seeing people beat up because that’s what happens in MMA.

[@user-ki2xk3zg9o]

You are wrong! Mma is used for just that - a hotbead of People

[@lukedavison6070]

@@ossra100 if you cant handle it then thats on you

[@youtubeaccountserio2633]

MMA ain’t boxing, mma is barbaric

[@lukedavison6070]

@@youtubeaccountserio2633 Really? Because I know of many fighters who have died boxing, but non who have died in mma and I've been around both sports a long time....

[@LectioDivina33]

As a practising Catholic & MMA lover I agree with your reasoning, what you watch and listen to affects you, just like the friends we choose and the food we eat. But in Martial Arts their is respect and honour and MMA there are bad examples like Connor McGregor and great examples like GSP & Khabib Nurmagomedov. Khabibs Islamic month long Ramadan fasting, praying in public, humbleness, love for his brothers, mother, father, morals, values, no drugs, no alcohol, no smoking and warrior mentality fighting against bad examples like McGregor inspired me come back to Catholism after 12 years away and helped me not be afraid in public to show I'm a proud Catholic, even wearing a rosary bead daily. I also had my 2 girls baptised and recieve holy communion in the last 6 months. I can really connect with Khabib because I hold and practice the same morals and values and keep them close to my heart. So, in a dark/bad portrayed sport there are some shining lights like Khabib and his orthodox Islamic ways that can really teach and inspire us Orthodox Catholics/Catholics, be it fasting, praying, humbleness or fighting the good fight against evilness and the evil one. Jesus is our saviour, peace!

[@EldenLord00]

Yeah but your still beating someone into submission though.

[@92josemz]

What about boxing? Wrestling?what about a big hit in NFL? where is that line drawn?

[@TommyGuy1988]

Jose Fredy M I eagerly await his next video decrying fighting in hockey. Or the immortality of drawing fouls (aka lying) in soccer and other sports. Or the immodesty of the uniforms for swimming, volleyball, and the like. But I won't hold my breath.

[@suplexpiledriver4428]

Wrestling is a "work" -- or "fake" in the eyes of others. The object is to draw money and crowds by putting on a show without the deliberate infliction of harm (that's the ideal, accidents happen). A different standard would be applied since it's more akin to theater or Hollywood, especially today.

[@nmiller731]

Suplex Piledriver I believe he was talking about real wrestling, you know like highschool and collegiate wrestling. Not WWE wrestling.

[@favmt]

Jose Fredy M exactly. I eagerly anticipate his reply to you...

[@suplexpiledriver4428]

Amateur or Olympic wrestling does not encompass violence. It is less a fight and more a competitive struggle where the object is to overpower an opponent but not inflict damage.

[@SaltyCalhoun]

Are you Jon Hamm's religious brother?

[@RGTomoenage11]

BROTHER MIKE, As a Catholic Christian and as a martial artist whom once wanted to be an mma fighter. i have mixed feelings about this. For example, as a trained martial artist and competitor. I enjoy the technique not the violence. I look at it as a chess match rather than a fight. On the other hand, aftet seeing the damage some fighters have to live with and how lityle they get paid I realized mma is not worth it. Some guys have over 15 comcussions and terrible trauma. On another point, I actually think the submition is a humane way to win. Let me give you an example, in grappling class. If i put somebody on a submition the person can give up without feeling pain or injury. On the other hand, if i box somebody or kick box somebody. If i beat him he will have a lot more trauma. I can literally put someone on a choke hold and not choke him but hold him. with punches and kicks. its harder to not hurt your opponent. anyway, I really enjoyed this video because I agree it is damaging to the body which thectemple of the Holy Spirit but as a young man i loved the adrenaline and thought of my self as a warrior. Now thst im older i realize how much damage this guys do to their bodies. I do watch mma but because I am a martial artist who watch it for the technique but I do see where you are coming from. Grappling is really not that bad though. You tap and go home to train again. A knock out, who knows if you will train again. Just my two cents. The peace of our Lord be with you.

[@Ricardo-mr3bg]

@Kaiser Koba ""you're trying to do as much physical harm to your opponent as possible." " That's precisely the case. WINNING the fight is to do exacty it

[@whatever4822]

Maaan you don't even relise how deep experience is being in a fight. First of all you need to tame your aggression to be a fighter, because in rage, you have no chance to win. When your opponent is trying to beat you, choke you out, you really need to stay aware, you need to stay calm, you need to stay courageous, time is slowing down, for many fighters it's almost spiritual thing. It's a bit like our life sometimes trying to choke us out, beat us down, but we need to stay calm, stay strong, and fight till our spirit breaks and you give up, body can't take it anymore, or "referee" decide to stop "the fight". It's about that moment when you face... yourself. :) Peace!

[@whatever4822]

Im not here to discuss, because there is nothing to discuss about. You have no idea what are you talking about, because you did not experience that. I was drug addict, I still am, and this extreme sport saved my life.

[@whatever4822]

Every extreme sport is a bit like a drug, because of chemistry of our brain. Yes, Im addicted to extreme sports, and it cures my depression, - not like drugs :)

[@whatever4822]

What is the point made by Mike?

[@thomasdamico3120]

Thank you. Direct and clear message. I appreciate a non "fortune cookie" answer from a cleric for once. I don't watch you're channel for good feelings. I watch it to discern truth and make me a better Catholic. Solid. It's about time we bring back muscular Catholicism. Keep it comming!

[@anthonysabina1629]

I'm 15 years old and i train mma. We don't fight for other people entertainment, we fight because we like it, enjoy it, and love it. I respect what you said in this video. I don't believe in any religion. In mma its to train fighters, fighting each other to see who is the better mix martial artist.

[@CivicGuard777]

I respectfully disagree because I do not believe people generally watch MMA to see people get physically hurt and dominated but more to see a competition between two great athletes. You want to see who has trained harder, who is more mentally stronger and who is the better fighter. However, if you watch with intent to see someone get hurt then I would see why you would think like that. Just my honest opinion as a Christian MMA fan.

[@carlosespinoza2493]

You should've posted this after the big Mayweather vs McGregor fight and Canelo vs GGG fight! Now my wife isn't going to let me watch!!! God bless Fr. Mike!

[@kreuelt]

God bless your wife :)

[@anaconda_mma]

Go ahead and enjoy combat sports. there is NOTHING wrong with two brothers competing to show off superior strategy and technique. don't believe everything you see on the internet.

[@davidcendana2302]

You can watch with me instead haha

[@toreytownsend148]

Marko St-Koulev You are exactly right. Half of the stuff that we see and is posted are lies anyway. Just look at half of the posted videos that do not speak on the titles. They never even mention that title so that is why we call it click bait. So yes you are correct. My own mother tells me that and she rarely is on the internet. #Good Day

[@randygrim7273]

just remind her that a group of people who actively hide pedophiles and do nothing but move the priest to another church when one is accused probably shouldn't be anyone's moral guide.

[@mr.bryceguy8818]

I watch Fr. Mike videos all the time, and I always see comments saying how much people love Fr. Mike and what he says; but, as soon as I saw the title of this one, I knew that this one was going to get people. I just knew it, because the unfortunate fact is, no matter how good people think they are, they don't like to be told they're wrong for doing something they completely and totally enjoy. Peace and all good.

[@bobschmidt3610]

Kudos father Mike. You deliver a very relevant message with this video. Thank you, and God bless you!

[@joelrwo5974]

You shall call no man father Matthew 23:9

[@COcatholicgal]

Watching this after the Imane Khelif situation gives great context to the situation! Thank you Fr. Mike!!

[@arshia643]

I'm not a fan of MMA whatsoever, but I don't understand what the problem with it is. People in MMA aren't really "dominating" someone or "beating them into submission", since both people are agreeing to fight each other and know the consequences of their actions. In fact, I'm pretty sure that a lot of people who fight each other are friends. It's just a sport, just one with some extra physical injuries, it's no biggie.

[@MrRezitinas]

Just because we consent to something doesn't make it right. Pornography is full of consent, and yet full of evil.

[@randygrim7273]

Did the chidlren that god killed consent? Did the hundreds of thousands of people he killed in the floods consent. Your comment is nonsense. MMA is not morally wrong to say it is is stupid. To claim something is wrong means to pass judgement and casting judgement is a sin. Why exactly is pornography evil?

[@MrRezitinas]

The children don't need to consent, they are his to do with as we all are. We can judge things as much as we like, otherwise how would we know to do the right thing? God teaches us not to judge people, as to call someone "good" or "evil" because we can't possibly know, but to say "that thing that person did is evil" is not casting judgment. Pornography is evil because it reduces people to sex objects and denies us, sex and God the proper grace and respect that they are due. Sex is about love and procreation. Pornography is about none of those things. It's about money and pleasure, opposed to God's will.

[@arshia643]

That makes sense

[@randygrim7273]

Where did i claim to be a moralist?

[@timbobaggins5577]

Don't call your opinion the Truth. It's not. It's just your opinion. Also, please don't compare fighting to the death in ancient Rome to modern MMA. There is absolutely no comparison.

[@sonicpimp]

I've been invited by friends to go and watch MMA games at bars and restaurants before and I just never could explain my distaste of it. It was more than simple preference, something just struck out against my conscience regarding it, and that was well before I converted to Catholicism. Thanks for putting it into words, Fr. Mike!

[@levimcdaniel]

Ive been in combat sports and pro wrestling most of my life. Giving it all up. Submitting to christ. I agree that fighting or projecting violence for entertainment is wrong. I just want to be a loving person and good role model.

[@TheRadChannel]

I'm with this! Well said Father Mike!

[@robbelliii]

Thank you father Mike. I am a Christian and a BJJ practitioner and you are on spot about MMA/ UFC. One thing to add though is martial arts including BJJ can be quite addicting...if Christians aren’t careful martial arts can become an idol.

[@JustinWest]

This is the first time I think I'd disagree with you, Fr. Mike, but keep making videos, because you're a boss! I disagree with you only on the actual concept of the legitimacy of MMA (which I don't actually watch as a habit). I think that one DOES need to be careful of bloodlust, but I see no reason, inherently, that one couldn't enjoy a competition between two people who voluntarily enter a ring to have a competition - under controlled circumstances that are, for all intents and purposes, safe. I don't think it de facto MUST result in bloodlust (as opposed to gladiatorial games where people were compelled to fight, and which resulted in death). I view MMA as just a variation of "the sweet science" that is Boxing. So I think that there's more of a gray area here than you present. That's all. Keep up the great videos, and feel free to let me know if/why I'm incorrect :)

[@joelrwo5974]

You shall call no man father Matthew 23:9

[@JustinWest]

@@joelrwo5974 🤣 I don't think you understand what Jesus was doing in that moment, cuz he also says to call nobody master or teacher but we definitely use those words all the time, I'm sure you do, and so do people like Saint Paul. Plus Saint Stephen calls out as does Jesus referencing the Patriarchs and calling them titles like Father Abraham and father Isaac. And of course, St Paul even says he became a spiritual father, and we know that he himself was a celibate so he's not speaking in any way of begetting children in the natural sense.

[@HA-rn2iu]

Why not arrange voluntary fight to death ? I guess people will volunteer for that too. See the problem with that ??

[@conormcgregor5241]

Every sport in the world operates on the same values these days . Greed , Corruption ,Dominance and Power by hook or crook no matter how brutal . I’m an MMA fan , practise it for keeping my body and mind well and proud to say this sport will only keep rising and help educate the casual folks on how to defend yourself in an unfortunate circumstance just like I had to . Thank God for being the greatest warrior there ever was and will be , we get to learn the baby steps . God Bless everyone and let’s hope crime rates go down with each year no matter how unlikely.

[@mufasatrt1851]

Watch UFC 242 on ESPN plus

[@manuelmagro9173]

A very good video. I support your point of being able to defend yourself, It is no joke to be suddenly surprised by a bunch of mean people. I was just 19 years old when a mob of five attackers entered my residential study room. Karate and Ju Jitsu is what saved me from being seriously mobbed. I could fend them of. Later in the same year, someone broke in and waited for me in my private vehicle being parked in a dark temporary area. Next moment he learned forward in the dark back seat, got a rope around my neck and started joking me. Again martial arts helped me to remove the choking hands and rope and bent his fingers into awkward positions that made him flea the scene. A myriad of bullies tried to draw and force me into fist and kick mobbing's. Again, karate and Ju-Jitsu took care of it. This all happened in so-called safe areas - my advice is you must know some form of self defense.

[@crackerjack2228]

Is enjoying the tackling in football bad too? How about the hits in hockey? Where is the line?

[@BestStoriesR]

As a life long MMA fan I actually agree with you even though my spiritual views may not align with yours. I do love how you said turning the cheek is sronger. A tear came out of my eye out of admiration for anyone who is that strong to keep the peace

[@MarantoPower]

I disagree. According to your rationale, all sports would fall into this category. Since all sport is to show the dominace of one man/team over another. MMA is about highlighting discipline and combat. It does so in a way that shows both the grace of martial arts and the sportsmanship of sport. More often than not, the two fighters shake hands and hug after their fight. There aren't any hard feelings. They are simply testing their skill set against another man's skill set. It is no different than Boxing, football, baseball, or even Chess. Yes people get hurt. This is something Both fighters accept going into the fight. I generally like all of your videos. I have learned a lot from them. This one seems to have maybe a little bias to it though. Maybe I am wrong.

[@sallyjo13]

There is, I think, a difference between competition and violence. One is cultivated and the other is not. It's like comparing a Ancient Greek discussion with two people beating themselves with baseball clubs for an opinion. Both is an "argument", but one of them is cultivated and competitive and dignified, the other is violent, barbaric and inhuman. I'd say.

[@LarsTainio]

The goal in football, chess or baseball isn't to beat your opponent bloody, so it isn't really a fair comparison.

[@dizzybrit]

MMA Fun take your stupidity and bigotry elsewhere. If you have evidence of your disgusting claim bring it on. Otherwise shut your stupid mouth

[@hughleigh3959]

Martin McFly wow that's not very Christian of you.

[@rubenmaldonado1868]

Exactly what I was thinking

[@adambrezman9753]

thank you for this video, i searched up and down for the negative effects watching fighting can cause to your mind or soul and your video still didn't get recommended!!! i was so skeptical seeing all these people in power that i know want to spread anti-christian and anti-human agendas even, support and go to these events. i knew something cannot be right yet i couldn't quite pinpoint it, especially since i saw it more like a sport than anything else. Thank you for showing me how indulging my senses in this blood lust is wrong and can lead me to sin. God bless you father

[@jamesgonzales7994]

Father, i always felt bad watching it!!! God bless you!!!

[@joelrwo5974]

You shall call no man father Matthew 23:9

[@fpp144]

Father Mike, have you been reading my mind? I agree with everything you said today!

[@joelrwo5974]

You shall call no man father Matthew 23:9

[@thedrip2959]

I’m not a believer of any God. That being said. After reading the comments I think many people missed his point of what it he is saying. He feels that to sit and watch one human beat on another one just for the sake of entertainment. Where does it stop? I think is what he is saying. To abuse or beat another person for entertainment can be viewed as a total disregard for life and for what reason. So you are not bored? Like I said it’s not about what God thinks to me. I say whatever floats your boat but for those of you that are religious. Picking and choosing what “rules” you will follow based on your faith and life style seems a bit fair weathered. I don’t believe Christianity is meant to be a half in half out way of life. It’s intended to be a complete way of life and not just on Sunday. That’s a lot of the issues that nonbelievers have with Christians. Not always but often it seems that people are Christians when it works best for them. All I’m saying is practice what you preach. As Father Mike was pointing out. Christians should care for other humans. Beating one another up for entertainment does not stay within bounds of a Christian life.

[@georgeghleung]

Just keep an open heart and understanding mind; you will go far.

[@FormidableSantiago]

There's no other God but one, the one who created us and suffered for us.

[@HoneyDubey23]

You are so right! It should only be for training purposes without causing pain not used for entertainment to make money. 🙏🏼

[@fsnicolas]

Thanks for this, Fr. Mike. This had to be said. And as a fan of MMA since the first UFC, I am convicted.

[@joelrwo5974]

You shall call no man father Matthew 23:9

[@danhickey1227]

@@joelrwo5974 verse is way out of context there my guy

[@terrancesweetman8541]

Well in the 10 Commandments it does not say they'll shell not wacth 2 people fight so I rest my case

[@josephclement26]

What I took away from this is, if you are watching an MMA match for the pleasure of seeing two people battle for dominance in a cage, you strip them of their dignity; you are watching them as if they are animals. However, if you watch an MMA match to see two competitors use their practice to demonstrate together their art form, their hard work, and their respect for one another, then you are watching them with dignity and without a "blood lust". Of course, by bringing out anger and broadcasting pre-match trash talk between opponents, the media gears more towards our "blood lust". The media will replay a knockout and zoom in on all the blood. As long as you remember that these are men and women, bothers and sisters in Christ, who put a lot of time and effort into improving their art form, I believe you can watch an MMA match without stripping the competitors of their dignity.

[@physicallynumbtoeverything9137]

I hate MMA is disgusting. I would never watch it or even be friends with someone who is an mma fighter. I am not religious and I would never support MMA or UFC.

[@jessedoyle4624]

I still believe there is a place for fighting as entertainment. I believe it shows a part of people's true potential both physical and mental. I'm not saying fighting is the only potential humans have but what these athletes show us is something on another level completely. This is what the competition of fighting has done, it's meant to bring the best of the best out of us. It's meant to inspire. I will agree that most people that watch have the unfortunate perspective of just wanting to see one man.. or woman beat the other one up. For true fans of mma it's how they do it, it could be flawless techniques or a show of heart and willpower there's something that people need to see in it, that I still believe. I do understand how ever that these big money fights that ufc is introducing is diminishing the honor that you say is not present in mma entertainment. There has to be the respect of the champion AND the the number one contender for there to be any respect between the fighters, other wise it turns into WWE and nobody wants that. It's a fine line to walk but definitely valid points, I think someone in the comments mentioned it earlier and I agree. There needs to be more education on fighting and almost a social shift of how people preserve it. Not saying I have the answers but I know trying to train mma gave me a whole new outlook on what these people do for a living and how hard it is, why can't these people have a stage to show their dedication and skill?

[@crusty92]

Well said Father. Thank you for taking a stand on this, on behalf of all of us in Christ. God Bless.

[@joelrwo5974]

You shall call no man father

[@joelrwo5974]

Matthew 23:9

[@OmarAbdulMalikDHEdMPASPACPAPro]

Peace be to you Fr.Mike! I am a new subscriber! This is an AMAZING message that people need to hear! I was almost ADDICTED to watching MMA. I even wanted train for it when UFC started in early 90s. I came from a collegiate wrestling and karate background. What I found with watching MMA, UFC, boxing, and even "Professional" wrestling/WWF, is that along with the glorification of violence, there is also a GREAT deal of overt sexuality (e.g. bikini-clad "ring girls", scantily-clad "wrestling divas", even the mens' teeny-tiny spandex, fighting briefs,etc.😳). This portrayal of women (and men ) is the exact OPPOSITE of what God teaches us about how believing men and women should appear around eachother. Also, there is the encouragement of the most profane language in the name of being a great showman (e.g. "I'm gonna -blank- that guy up when we get in the -blankety blank- ring/octagon!" "*#⚡☠ YOU!"😲). This is truly the Devil's language!😈 I also noticed the encouragement of glorification of alcohol drinking! Another thing against which the Lord has warned! As much as I liked MMA, UFC, WWF (yeah I know WWF's not in the same category, but still).I had to make myself, stop watching it (or at least SEVERELY curb it)! AMAZINGLY, I've been able to live without it! Imagine that!🤣 May the Good Lord guide and protect us all! Peace! Omar "Dr.O the PA Pro" Abdul-Malik DHEd, MPAS, PA-C, CHES 🤓

[@gregorydamon8569]

My brother (Jordan Damon) is a world-renowned BJJ competitor and MMA athlete. He now has a school under Renzo Gracie. I think he would agree wholeheartedly. Great topic.

[@canismajoris6733]

Watching this video has stripped me of brain cells

[@Ricardo-cp2lu]

Maybe it's your MMA training, not the video......concussions lead to this.

[@EldenLord00]

What brain cells ?

[@uptown_rider8078]

And testosterone

[@devinbrown3612]

These are all great points! I believe having MMA and MMA events are beneficial for certain people in our society. If not for MMA, men and women might have a larger chance of expressing their problems in other violent ways to people who are not as skilled as them. Because to be a fighter, you have to already have a certain amount of violence in you. MMA is the perfect outlet for someone to express their bottled emotions. You rarely every hear of an MMA fighter fighting outside of the gym or a sanctioned event simply because they don't feel like they have to. Many people as well as myself watch MMA because we appreciate the technique and discipline that goes into the sport. Now I'm not going to sit here and say I'm not entertained when I see a KO or something big, but at the same time, that's not what I'm looking for in a fight. Also I would like to point out that the fighters are being paid and also have the choice to do so if they please. So is it really stripping them of their dignity when they work at something their whole life and get the opportunity to step in the cage and get paid for the amount of work they have put in? I believe fighting is okay when both parties agree to fair competition and when there's a mediator (ref) to make sure no further damage is done when unnecessary.

[@Jnwboss]

Right as a Christian myself I believe that there is a purpose for everything. I mean you mentioned it here some of these fighters could be out here doing street fighting and either killing someone else or getting killed themselves. With the regulations in place and they’re being paid relatively well for what they do who are we to deny someone for doing what they have practiced and trained their whole life for. Which leads me to wonder what about violence in movies? Professional Wrestling which is predetermined even standard Wrestling. Should there not be Olympic wrestling or boxing and such?

[@googlegmail9888]

It is when they’re knocked out virally

[@elgus871]

I believe there are two types of people who watch MMA fights. There are the general viewers, who enjoy watching the fights for recreation/entertainment, and then there are fighters who watch fights for educational purposes. The viewer will generally not understand the technicalities of fighting and essentially get a rush from the violence, whereas the fighter would be breaking down techniques so that for his next fight, be it sparing or competitive he has a few new trick in his bag. I understand where you're coming from with the opinion that it is wrong for Christians to watch fights and to a degree, I completely agree with you, but what do you think about fighting/combat sports and the fighters themselves. I've lived my entire life in Ireland and I've done Martial Arts for as long as I can remember. Originally because my parents where worried about my safety due to the fact I was always quite small. I've watched UFC since I was very little and I've admired fighters, growing up I decided I wanted to fight professionally myself, around the age of thirteen. I was bullied in school and I used my skills to protect myself when attacked, but fighting for me was something I loved to do and it fills every part of my life right now. I'm currently 18 and I want you to give me your opinion on if it's wrong to live as I do and to be completely in love with fighting. Also what do you think of my theory on the people who watch fights.

[@kainosktisis777]

A lot of modern sports is becoming more & more like the stuff of the Roman Colosseum.

[@jimbeam2299]

I promise there will never be a professional sport that features a lion eating somebody

[@sampainter05]

Should I quit? I’m a devote Catholic, but I enjoy MMA and the sport as a whole.

[@swagswaglikecailou9792]

MMA is not a competition for sport, not just for entertainment. Those two fighters in those cage are in a consensual competition usually dictated with respect and discipline it is not for just for violence. It is a violent sport but it is not there just for violence it is a true display of a combatants skill

[@Michael.Saveth]

I appreciate this video greatly! You put this into a perspective that I did not even think about. I agree 110% with you Father. Have a blessed day Michael

[@joelrwo5974]

You shall call no man father Matthew 23:9

[@YaneMarieSleppy]

Like Mr Miyagi says, "Fighting not good. Somebody always gets hurt."

[@LuisGomez-uk9xp]

one of the most shocking thing i saw several times is when one fighter KO the other fighter and then he keep puching his head againts the floor, being already unconscious, totally a shame, nonsense violence

[@beatlecristian]

What can be said of some of these MMA fighters like Dustin Poitier who are legit good people? The man has grown as a person and as a fighter because he learned humility early on.

[@danhickey1227]

Exactly. When you see guys like Khabib and Poirier, donating to each others charities, hugging after the bell, that's the part of the sport I dont believe to be sinful at all. Reflects the best of martial arts, not the trash talk or showmanship.

[@Ricardo-mr3bg]

Years and years after this video, not a single rational and logic objection - only insults, slurs and fallacies. Great work, F. Mike.

[@davidcendana2302]

Yo Father Mike. It seems to me your point is watching mma is bad because we get enjoyment, entertained from seeing people hurt each other and get injured. But to me it's not entirely correct. I trained in martial art for years and when i watch mma or any other similar competition my reaction is not "this two humans hurt each other, yeah!" It's more complex than that, to me it's more like "that's cool, how does he able to do that? What kind of discipline put to the training for him to have that skillset? If I train hard that skill is possible to master" Those MMA shows are field for those atheles to put their training to the test, there are rules to prevent beyond serious injuries and death. "Turn the other cheek" I totally agree with Christ's words here, it means not to focus on the problems itself, but to pay attention to the real problem, our own reaction. When we see inward, we have power and wisdom to not 'hit back'. Avoiding MMA (or just anything else that you think is bad) is not the final solution, it's paying attention to your own heart and mind and be better human being.

[@Simonjose7258]

David Cendana any idiot can be a priest apparently. They need more people like you working for them. You sound much more insightful and reasonable. In the end it's love that counts. Hate the idiocy not the idiot.

[@Ricardo-mr3bg]

Colosseum fans in ancient Rome could easily say the same: "oh, we don't like the violence in the arenas, we're just watching it to see how are they doing that with their swords?".

[@TheAnimal-Martinez]

Thank you, that makes so much sense I thank you, Lord, that i learned how to defend myself and my family The Glory was never mine it was Gods

[@olivierthemadpanda9761]

Joe Rogan is the best KZbin podcast Amen

[@ryanaaservantofthelordjesu9923]

He's not, hes an ignorant fool. He's clueless about Christianity too, he so pathetic he thinks Constantine wrote the bible, lol. He would never have biblical experts on this show, because it would show he doesn't have clue about Christianity, but yet talks about it like he does, and yet doesn't realized that he's making a fool out of himself, lol. 😆🤣😆

[@AJBernard]

Dear Fr. Mike, Thanks for this. Not sure I agree, but your argument is compelling. May God continue to bless your ministry! Peace of Christ upon you.

[@joelrwo5974]

You shall call no man father Matthew 23:9

[@AJBernard]

@@joelrwo5974 ok. so what does that mean? And, by the way, Jesus used the word "πατήρ" there, and I didn't call him "πατήρ" please understand the text before you use it as a weapon to condemn someone. Jesus is not saying we cannot call people "father," He's saying we cannot put people in the place of God.

[@pjba6]

Hello father, I love the message of this video and lots of it makes sense. However, I am a member of the Military and my unit teaches mixed martial to our soldiers as a means of self defense. One of the ways to test our knowledge of close combat is to hold tournaments. Which is a big event that families and friends of the competitors come to watch. This is where the line between spectator sport and training for self defense is blurred. A tournament helps expose soldiers to different combat situations and it is the closest thing you can get to train for a real fight because there are only some much repetitive drills can do. I can understand that MMA being an industry to sell violence as entertainment is sinful but is watching a your coworker fight in a tournament the same way? Especially after the end of a match the fighters laugh it off and congratulate each other in true sportsmanship fashion. If there is an opportunity we can speak or you can send me a message I would love it. It would help me become a better Catholic Soldier. God Bless you Father and all that you do.

[@Sam__N_K]

What do you feel now Father after the Pope named Deontay Wilder the Boxing Ambassador For Peace and told him he loves boxing

[@Unknown-ot1zr]

Why would he give it to Wilder? Tyson Fury beat him twice and is also actually a Catholic....

[@kimwooldridge8198]

ahhh Fr. Mike-- you just crushed my spirits!! I love MMA and have been a huge fan for many years.

[@QuaseQuasimodo]

With all due respect, the priest shows that he knows nothing about MMA. You can only CHOOSE to turn the other cheek if you ACTUALLY KNOW how to defend yourself and decide to not do it. Otherwise, it's just cowardice. And you can only really know if you can defend yourself if you train and fight against another opponent.If this is not the case, what is left for the Catholic are those inefficient martial arts such as some styles of Kung Fu and Aikido.

[@Sanfu69]

Did you watch for longer than 30 seconds?

[@TheBr8kdownjunkie]

wow, very good stuff, love these points!

[@ezi_e8328]

The truth will set me free 🙏🏾 Thank you

[@shakazulu365]

Excellent. I've always thought this. In each battle MMA crosses a line from being a sport to destruction. It's built into the nature of the sport. I'm always offended when I see another person get pounded repeatedly in the face after a punch or take down.

[@nunyabizwacks6711]

the nature of the sport is built on human nature, period

[@Harry._.Thompson]

What gives u the right to be offended?

[@PimpNamedSlickBack1_]

@@Harry._.Thompson he’s soft

[@ufcman8015]

You should feel the same way about Football and Boxing then. i LOVE mma. if it would have came out in the 70's instead of the 90's i would have devoted my life to it.

[@mag.dg1654]

Yes Fr. mike! i was starting to think you were part of the church of nice, you know like some of your more famous brother Jesuits. we need the cold hard truth father, our souls badly need it! and our skins can take it! thank you!

[@edwardjcarr1]

You are Aaaabsolutley right, I was gonna watch the big fight, and I got a terrible feeling inside from above and I opted out thank God!

[@jamesmountforge7523]

Yes! This is exactly what I've been saying and why I don't like martial arts as sports. I'm a martial artist, and I think this is a great video

[@richyakuoko2360]

Wow!!! Great video!! I'm Christian but not Catholic. But this was very well explained. I actually googled Is it ok for a Christians to watch MMA and a KZbinr named Trent came up but he had a different view and he named Father Mike in the video. So halfway through the video I searched Father Mike. And his take makes more sense. Because I feel guilty whenever I watch so much violence and the fighters always curse each other out. There is no honor and respect between most of the MMA fighters. Since it doesn't feel good in my spirit I will stop watching MMA and all combat sports.

[@lulumarquez9691]

I like how you sang that little 80s song at the beginning!! Hahaha

[@denscki6414]

Beautifully stated Father Mike. From start to finish.

[@joelrwo5974]

You shall call no man father Matthew 23:9

[@garygrant6987]

It's interesting watching some folks having a problem with Father's wisdom. MMA is barbaric. It strips the heroism and protection out of martial arts. If you doubt what he is saying, look into the wild faces of the spectators longing for a spectacle at a MMA event.

[@rubenmaldonado1868]

Same as the church fanatics

[@zefsagala1391]

YOU ONLY FOCUS ON ONE STORY...THERE ARE ALSO MMA FIGTERS WHO ARE RESPECTFUL TO THEIR OPPONENTS UHHHHH

[@itsZukka]

You just sound weak

[@Unknown-ot1zr]

Most of the best fighters un the world are religious. - Usyk - Stipe - Khabib - Yan - Jan - Rakic - Fedor - Romero - Lomachenko - Fury - Volkanovski - Wonderboy etc

[@joeyvlogs101]

“Strips the heroism and protection” what are you talking about

[@luxither7354]

It boils down to what we enjoy out of MMA. Is it the celebration of violence, or the celebration of skill & overcoming adversity. Its like watching hockey for the game or watching it for fights afterwards. One is the appreciation and enjoyment of a skill to aspire to. Another is the enjoyment of violence for its own sake. Many people may watch MMA for its violence, but most people I've know have celebrated it for its technique, skill and kayfabe. Connor McGregor was a great fighter, with a unique style, but the fact that he was so boisterous and witty was the reason why he became the top MMA fighter. We see this with many matches after they're finished: fighters will shake hands, hug each other and endear one another. They do this because they're not wanting to dominate for its own sake, but simply pursue strength and mastery in this sport. Yes, there's some sinful part of us that find pleasures in the spilling of blood, but its how we use this is important. Sex is a sin unwedded and fuelled by just lust, but its very hard to remove lust from sex, even with a partner you're married with. When sex is used constructively, it can bond those two partners ever closer and allow them to something beautiful, that being foster children. The same is with Martial Arts: they can easily be used to simply foster violence, and fulfil sin. But they can also be a tool of mastery, teaching and discipline. It can build confidence and humble oneself, as well as allow someone to be able to turn the other cheek in the first place, knowing what its like to have fought someone in a controlled circumstance.

[@aeopmusic]

2:36 _“There is NOTHING that is noble about beating another human being into submission for someone else’s entertainment.”_

[@catholicjerry8377]

Thanks Father, the truth is hard to accept for many, but I love it. The truth, not the fighting. Praise God

[@joelrwo5974]

You shall call no man father Matthew 23:9

[@truegirl2anna]

This is something I've been thinking a lot about lately, perfect time for a video from Fr. Mike! Believe it or not, this video made a lot of sense to me. This type of fighting isn't just risky like football or rugby. MMA is simply all about beating someone else up and physically hurting them in order to win. Huge difference. As a Christian, we are all called to stop intentional violence like this all for the sake of superficial entertainment. That's the whole point of this video, and not surprisingly, Fr. Mike (no pun intended) hits it right on the head.