Despite mixed martial arts’ growing popularity and participation at the professional and amateur levels, fighting isn’t likely to crossover into collegiate athletics. Future UFC athletes won’t be coming in droves repping their alma mater, and college combat experience won’t be a necessity any time soon.
That said, the Arizona State wrestling program decided to honor its former athletes who found their way into the Octagon. On February 16, ASU hosts “MMA Night” during its match with CSU Bakersfield. It is a day in which ASU hosts each season to acknowledge its alumni who made careers in mixed martial arts.