MMA Lab
Data-driven research on how fights are really won. Every study is grounded in real bout data and peer-reviewed sport science — no hot takes.
Does UFC Jet Lag Hurt Fighters? What the Data Shows
UFC jet lag may affect readiness, but 2,122-fight data measures travel, not symptoms. See what the signal means, its limits, and how models should use it.
Is Getting Choked Out in MMA Dangerous? What Data Shows
Is getting choked out in MMA dangerous? UFC and grappling studies show no clear short-term test change, but rare, serious vascular injuries.
Why Do UFC Fighters Get Cauliflower Ear? What Data Shows
Why do UFC fighters get cauliflower ear? Studies of 1,632 judokas and hundreds of wrestlers explain the cause, risks, prevention and treatment.
Are UFC Fighters Striking More? What 8,751 Fights Show
UFC significant strikes per minute rose from 2.81 to 8.05 across eras. See what 8,751 fights show, why raw totals mislead, and grappling's role.
Do UFC Fighters Perform Worse After Shoulder Injuries?
Do UFC fighters perform worse after shoulder injuries? A 27-fighter study tracks win rate, knockdowns, surgery, recurrence and return limits.
How Often Do UFC Fights Go to Decision? What Data Shows
How often do UFC fights go to decision? An 8,591-bout study shows the overall rate, division gaps, decision types, yearly swings, and limits.
How Does UFC Pick Fight of the Night? What Data Shows
How does UFC pick Fight of the Night? A 15-year study shows how action, card position, recency and live crowds can shape the final award choice.
How Often Do Undefeated UFC Title Challengers Win?
Undefeated UFC title challengers won 17 of 39 first title shots. See what the 43.6% rate means for Movsar Evloev at UFC 333 and why it can mislead.
Does Winning Round 1 Predict the UFC Fight Winner?
Winning Round 1 predicts the UFC fight winner 68% of the time after bouts reach Round 2. See what 8,600 fights show and where the signal fails.
Does a UFC Debut Loss Predict a Shorter UFC Career?
A UFC debut loss tracks with shorter careers: 4.7 fights versus 8.3 after a win. See 2,471-fighter data, finish methods, outliers and limits.
Does Cutting Weight Weaken a UFC Fighter’s Chin? What Data Says
Does UFC weight cutting weaken a fighter’s chin? Fight data, dehydration trials and concussion research show a plausible risk, but no direct proof.
Do Champions From Other MMA Promotions Succeed in UFC?
Do champions from Bellator, Cage Warriors and Strikeforce succeed in UFC? A 16-promotion audit compares win rates, UFC belts and major data limits.