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The Matrix of Cornada Escrima

In most Martial Arts circles today, the definition of “ Mixed” Martial Arts is limited to some method of kickboxing combined with some ground-fighting skills.  After all, this is what is viewed on TV, the Internet, and the various fighter and martial arts magazines.   I call this the MMA Paradigm.  This means that if you are repeatedly shown something, and told that what you see are the characteristics of that activity;  then it becomes your definition.

In the “real world” of self defense, violent encounters can, and will usually include much more than kickboxing and grappling.  When the complexity and danger of various weapons is added to the matrix; the danger exponentially increases as do the required attributes to deal with the various possibilities.  Thus, the more refined definition of Mixed Martial Arts is displayed in the matrix below.

	VS.	Empty Hands	1 Stick	2 Sticks	1 Knife	2 Knives	1 stick 1 Knife
Empty Hands
1 Stick
2 Sticks
1 Knife
2 Knives
1 stick 1 Knife

Notice, "Empty Hand MMA" only represents one box of the total of 36 options. This is the matrix used for training in the Cornada Escrima class at PMA. Students will learned to defend themselves in all of these situations. The next time you flip on the television and see what is known as "MMA," keep in mind that a fight is more than Kickboxing and Ground Fighting...