OK, so I knew nothing about mixed martial arts or "ultimate fighting. Zero. I saw this book referenced in Sports Illustrated and I said, "Hmmm. I'd kinda like to learn about MMA. I just don't get it."
Imagine the look I got at Barnes & Noble when I asked if they had "Blood in the Cage." B&N had it, and the look didn't disappoint.
Anyway, the book essentially follows an MMA "pioneer," a guy named Pat Miletich. The book explores the different disciplines that came together to form MMA and chronicles the early objections to the sport. The book also tells the history of MMA tournaments, the coverage of MMA on television and the different leagues that predated the sport's current structure.
I did enjoy this read, but it's a definite B. The subject matter is simply unappealing to anyone with no interest in finding out what MMA is all about.
One of my earlier posts concerns "Joker One." That's another book that may not appeal to all readers, but I would recommend that book over "Blood in the Cage" any time.
Three things came out of my reading this book. One, I understand what MMA is all about and know that it is not the "barbaric" sport others believe it to be. Two, I appreciate the physical training and ability, as well as the mental toughness, of those who participate in MMA. Three, I pause a little longer on USA and SpikeTV when flipping channels when MMA is on. I have not developed any desire to learn who the fighters are or to follow the sport, though.
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