The origins of the sport of MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) or mixed martial arts can be traced back to ancient Greece, while today the mecca of MMA fights is definitely considered to be the UFC organization in the United States. MMA has become one of the fastest growing sports in the world, with tournaments attracting millions of viewers worldwide. MMA has always had a special place in Lithuania.

The first MMA tournament of professional fights was organized by the Lithuanian Bushido Federation (LBF) in 1999, when there was not a single vacant seat in the old Vilnius concert and sports hall. LBF has organized an impressive number of international MMA tournaments throughout its existence, producing many talented, world-renowned fighters. One of the most prominent is Remigijus Morkevičius, who has written his name forever in the history of world MMA with his fights and victories. Other prominent Lithuanian MMA fighters, such as Kęstutis Smirnovas, Egidijus Valavičius, Marius Žaromskis, Valentinas Golubovskis, Tadiausas Cholodinskis, Sergeij Greičiho, contributed greatly to the promotion of Lithuania's name in the international arena. Their achievements inspired a new generation of fighters who fight in the biggest organizations in the world today. The representative of the young generation, Julija Stoliarenko, is the first Lithuanian to sign a contract with the UFC and achieve significant achievements in this organization. Ernesta Kareckaitė, Žygimantas Ramaška are also firmly stepping forward in international arenas, promoting the name of Lithuania.

Author of the article: KOK