MMA Promotions Control Over Match Ups Has Pros and Cons

MMA is unique in that promoters have control over their matchups. This has been a blessing and a curse in that hardcore fans see fighters like Jon Fitch and Yushin Okami passed over because their style doesn’t sell, while big names or charismatic fighters like Brock Lesnar or Dan Hardy seemingly get to jump the line to a title shot. There is also the positive side where fights that end like Machida vs Rua can be instantly re-matched to give fans the closure they want and promoters often listen to both fighters and fans and create fights like Davis vs Lytle. It will be interesting to see if this model persists as the sport grows and even one day big promotions change hands. While it’s harder to dodge a worthy challenger than in boxing, the potential does remain for promoters to hand pick matchups and promote the fighters they want.