Back in olden times, when the UFC was more spectacle than sport, it was easy for critics to dismiss what they saw as little better than bar fighting, a visceral expression of humanity's worst impulses and instincts. After all, there was often little artistry on display and even less athleticism. The UFC was exactly what it appeared to be: unrefined violence obsessives with an outlet to crack skulls without going to prison.
Over the years, fighters have steadily improved, skill sets have become more streamlined, and what was once carefully controlled chaos has morphed into an actual athletic contest.