A catalyst that can attract fan interest and sell pay-per-views, rivalries have been a key factor in the growth of mixed martial arts.
Produced by Ciranda Films in association with the Ultimate Fighting Championship, the series — which has aired on the Brazilian Combate channel since Sept. 28 — is entitled “The Greatest Rivalries of MMA”, and in six episodes highlights some of the greatest rivalries in the sport since it was known as Vale Tudo.
Some of the rivalries covered include: the Santanas vs. the Gracies in the 1950s; muay Thai vs. jiu-jitsu in the ‘80s; jiu-jitsu vs.