Techniques and Strategies

The techniques and strategies of amateur wrestling, submission wrestling and Muay Thai are usually not used as in the original arts/sports but instead are modified to fulfill the needs of MMA competition. For example, freestyle wrestlers do not need to deal with striking during a takedown attempt, and Muay Thai bouts are broken by the referee if the fighter falls down after a kick that missed the target. This is very different from the situation in MMA competition, and techniques and strategies for MMA competition have to reflect this.

Some fighters may substitute one or more of the basic styles mentioned above with judo, sambo, or their own brand of jujutsu or boxing. According to the "phases of combat" theory all phases should be covered to stay competitive and only techniques proven in actual competition should be used. This is a reason why it is quite difficult to find "exotic" styles in fighter's bios now.