Recently, the Association of Boxing Commissions and Combative Sports made a decision that has sparked a lot of debate in the world of mixed martial arts. The ruling to remove the ban on “12-6 elbows” has left many in the MMA community divided on whether this was the right move.
History of the Rule
The 12-6 elbow rule, which prohibits a fighter from executing a straight downward elbow strike on a grounded opponent, has been a point of contention for many years. This rule was originally put in place due to concerns about the severity of the strike and its potential to cause serious injury to a downed opponent.
One of the most infamous instances of the 12-6 rule leading to a controversial outcome was in the UFC fight between Jon Jones and Matt Hamill. Jones, who was dominating the fight, landed several elbow strikes from full mount, only to have the bout stopped by the referee due to the elbows being deemed illegal. This loss remains the only blemish on Jones’ otherwise stellar record, and the decision to uphold it has been a source of frustration for him and his fans.
Reaction to the Rule Change
Following the announcement of the removal of the 12-6 elbow ban, Jones took to social media to express his displeasure with the decision. He called for the UFC to overturn his loss to Hamill, emphasizing his undefeated status in his own eyes. This response highlights the emotional impact that such a ruling can have on a fighter’s career and reputation.
In addition to lifting the ban on 12-6 elbows, the ABC also redefined what constitutes a “grounded opponent” in MMA. A fighter is now considered grounded if any part of their body, other than their hands or feet, is touching the canvas. This change aims to provide clarity and consistency in officiating fights and determining the legality of strikes.
The decision to remove the ban on 12-6 elbows is a significant development in the world of mixed martial arts. While some believe that this change will lead to more dynamic and exciting fights, others are concerned about the potential for increased risk of injury. Only time will tell how this rule change will impact the sport and its athletes.