UFC Garners More Postive Media Coverage

MSNBC.com has an article up about the UFC's emergence as a mainstream power in the sports world.  Notable quote:

It isn’t the only well-known name to embrace UFC. Harley-Davidson inked a pact with the group earlier this year, and Visa introduced a UFC card in June. The Octagon, the UFC’s version of a boxing ring, boasts advertisements on the mat from Toyota, Burger King and others. Fighter’s trunks are bedecked with sponsors such as Fry’s.

And what, exactly, is luring young males and others to follow the UFC, to the extent where the league sold more than 5 million pay-per-view events in 2007? The barefoot behemoths (UFC fighters, not the audience) punch, kick, and tackle to try to best their opponent. In other words, they must be well-versed in a number of disciplines, from boxing to karate to wrestling.

Despite what can seem like chaos, there are a few strict rules, such as: No head-butting or kicking the downed opponent, and no strikes to the spine or the back of the head. Eye-gouging, a primitive practice once allowed, has been eliminated.

Although there are no earth-shaking revelations in the article, it's noteworthy in that it doesn't evoke the misguided assumptions that are often associated with MMA.  It's a sign that the UFC and the entire sport are continuing to gain mainstream acceptance.  However, this positive media coverage and attention by big name sponsors should also serve as notice that scrutiny will continue to increase.  As the dominant player, it's imperative that the UFC exercise exceptional judgment when dealing with media outlets and the general public going forward.  Recognition does not come without criticism - fair or not.

HT:  Fight Ticker