Inside the outrageous world of child cage fighting

Kristofer "The Arm Collector" Arrey, 7, chokes Mason Bramlette, 7, during 2013
California State Pankration Championships Youth Division. Pankration is a version
of the popular Mixed Martial Arts (MMA)-style fighting that is adapted for children

It is the heat of battle between two MMA fighters hemmed inside an industrial metal cage. One kicks, punches and strangles his way to brutal victory. His opponent breaks down and cries tears for his mother.

But this is not an unusual end to another televised brawl between two fully grown brutes, this is kids's MMA, or Mixed Martial Arts, which is rapidly becoming one of the nation's fastest growing sports among children.

It is estimated that three million boys and girls, some as young as five-years-old launch themselves at each other weekly across the nation engaged in Pankration - some wearing no head protection and throwing punches boasting gloves little more than one-inch thick.

Critics call it barbaric and fear for the children's safety and the effect on their behavior.

Supporters compare it's benefits to boxing and traditional martial arts and claim that it encourages self-discipline, fair play and exercise.  (more...)

Inside the outrageous world of child cage fighting