The AI War in Combat Sports—Why Some Coaches Will Fight It, and Why They’ll Lose
For decades, combat sports have been built on tradition—hard work, repetition, and gut instinct. Coaches passed down knowledge, fighters drilled techniques, and improvement came through trial and error.
That era is coming to an end.
AI is doing what experience alone never could— breaking down every strike with surgical precision, and optimizing technique in real time. Fighters who train with AI aren’t just working harder; they’re working smarter, improving in months what used to take years.
This is where combat sports is headed. The only question is: Are you evolving with it, or will you be left behind?
Julian Parker (Founder Form Fighter): Julian is leading the evolution of AI in combat sports, bridging the gap between technology and real-world fight training. As the founder of Form Fighter, he’s pioneering AI-driven analysis that helps fighters and coaches refine technique, improve efficiency, and gain a competitive edge. With a deep understanding of both striking mechanics and machine learning, he’s challenging outdated training methods and pushing the industry toward a more data-driven future.
His work has already gained traction among top athletes and coaches, and as AI becomes an unavoidable force in sports performance, he’s ensuring that combat sports don’t get left behind.
Follow his work as he continues shaping the future of fight training.
Does Ring Rust Impact Performance in Modern MMA?
The world’s best mixed martial artists today have a delicate balancing act that few observers comprehend. Though fans might wonder why their favorite fighters only compete two or three times annually, the reality involves a subtle ballet of physical recovery, strategic career management, and the ever-present threat of “ring rust.” The modern UFC schedule is a far cry from the early 1990s when fighters such as Dan Severn would regularly step into the ring 12-15 times per year. Today, this is vastly different, with more than 700 active UFC fighters vying for scarce positions across only twelve prominent pay-per-view events each year. With this lack of opportunity, athletes are compelled to extract maximum performance out of every venture while ensuring body protection for extended careers.
Most fans of the sport follow fighter activity closely through various media. Betting websites frequently include layoff times in their determination of odds, recognizing that more prolonged absences do have a significant influence on performance outcomes. Even if you click here for a promo code, you would want to know the potential absence the fighter had from the Octagon. Detailed analytics on fighter activity trends are even provided by some websites to direct wagering decisions. These services offer meaningful statistical context beyond win-loss records, enabling a better appreciation of how time between fights may affect future matchups.
MMA and the Art of Risk: How Fighters Strategize for Victory
MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) has a long history that can be traced back to 648 BC when it was called Pankration (all powers) at the ancient Olympic games. This ancient form of the sport, which was a combination of wrestling, kicks, and punches closely resembled the modern form that is practiced today. Over the centuries, the sport adopted different fighting techniques from different combat disciplines, such as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Kung-fu, and Judo. Shooto was the first official MMA organization in Japan, though the first legal MMA league in the United States was created in 1980 in Pittsburgh. This brand is almost entirely controlled by the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC)
How to Spot and Exploit Overvalued Fighters in UFC Betting
Bookmakers know: if a fighter is actively featured in social networks and headlines, they will bet on him, even if his chances of winning are doubtful. UFC veterans are often overrated, too – their name sounds formidable, but in the octagon, it’s all about physicality and fighting style.
To make smart bets, you need to look deeper: analyze statistics on the best UFC betting site, recent fights and real skills of fighters. In this article, let’s see how to identify overvalued odds and use it in your favor.
The Best Cardio Workouts from MMA Fighters: Build Endurance Like a Pro
MMA is a demanding sport that pushes both physical and mental limits. Endurance plays a crucial role. Without top-tier cardio, a fighter risks losing their breath before even showcasing their full technique. Some athletes incorporate innovative training methods, while others rely on classic but intense exercises. While some seek to improve their endurance in a gym, others prefer to relax on Katana spin casino, an online casino that offers an immersive and entertaining experience.
The AI Playbook for Combat Coaches: More Revenue, Better Retention in 10 Minutes
The Coaching Ceiling: Why Great Coaches Struggle to Scale
For most combat sports coaches, success is measured by packed classes, dedicated students, and a solid reputation in the gym. But behind the scenes, a frustrating reality sets in:
- You can only make as much as your schedule allows. More students mean more hours in the gym, and burnout is real.
- Beginners drop out before they ever hit their stride. They walk into class, see more experienced students moving effortlessly, and feel like they’ll never catch up.
- One-on-one feedback is limited. In a full class, there’s only so much time to correct individual technique. Serious students crave real feedback, but with limited hours in a day, how can you give everyone what they need?
- Online coaching sounds like a solution, but it’s a technical headache. Setting up video reviews, keeping track of student progress, and scheduling calls—it all adds up to more time, not less.
At the end of the day, the best coaches are stuck between serving their top fighters and nurturing new students—but the reality is that beginners are the ones who need the most attention to stay committed.
So how do you scale your expertise, retain more students, and earn more—without sacrificing your time or effectiveness?
That’s where AI-powered coaching changes the game.
Julian Parker (Founder Form Fighter): Julian is leading the evolution of AI in combat sports, bridging the gap between technology and real-world fight training. As the founder of Form Fighter, he’s pioneering AI-driven analysis that helps fighters and coaches refine technique, improve efficiency, and gain a competitive edge. With a deep understanding of both striking mechanics and machine learning, he’s challenging outdated training methods and pushing the industry toward a more data-driven future.
His work has already gained traction among top athletes and coaches, and as AI becomes an unavoidable force in sports performance, he’s ensuring that combat sports don’t get left behind.
Follow his work as he continues shaping the future of fight training.
MMA & UFC betting: From Canada’s appealing free spins to themed slots and odds’ workings
Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is an incomparably powerful sport that’s focused on a uniquely built set of disciplines and routines pertaining to more martial arts, including wrestling, Thai, jiu-jitsu, judo, and boxing. With a surge in popularity across Canada that spreads to European countries and beyond, the interest drawn by MMA betting and slots consequently rises. These days, MMA enthusiasts looking to engage in exciting slots can find and use UFC-themed slot games. MMA’s impact on the gaming business defies expectations, with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), the leading organization in the industry, driving most of the progress.
Let’s cut to the chase and discover the key things to know in order to engage in responsible gambling and make the most of your MMA bets in Canada and beyond.
How to Assess Fighters for Smart MMA Betting Decisions
Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is thrilling, fast-paced, and, for bettors, layered with opportunities to cash in on accurate predictions. But when the fun of throwing money on your favorite fighter becomes a calculated strategy, you’ll find that smart betting isn’t about fandom—it’s about understanding MMA odds and fighters.
This guide will help you identify key factors for assessing fighters properly, giving you the insights you need to make smarter betting decisions.
This Week’s WHR Bets/Parlays
The huge Underdog parlay hit last week! Let’s try again!!
Fights considered must satisfy all of the criteria below:
- Both fighters must be active (fought in 360 days prior to event). Reduces uncertainty.
- Both fighters must have at least 5 fights, with at least 1 draw or 1 loss (excluding debut). More data makes WHR happy.
- Both fighters must be rated in the same division as the fight. Further reduces uncertainty.
- Must have odds from at least three bookmakers.
How Fighter Rankings Impact Betting Odds in MMA
Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) has a dynamic and ever-evolving ranking system that plays a crucial role in shaping betting odds. Rankings influence how sportsbooks and bettors assess a fighter’s chances of winning, but they don’t always tell the full story. Understanding the relationship between rankings and betting lines can give bettors an edge when wagering on fights.
MMA-Themed Sweepstakes Casino Games: Where Combat Sports Meet Social Gaming
Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is all about strategy, skill, and calculated risks—qualities that also define the world of sweepstakes casino gaming. While MMA fans tune in to see their favorite fighters battle it out in the octagon, many are also drawn to competitive social gaming experiences. With the rise of MMA-themed sweepstakes casino games, combat sports enthusiasts now have a unique way to enjoy the thrill of the fight beyond the cage.
For those looking to explore the best sweepstakes casinos, including options with no-deposit bonuses, check out this Top 10 New USA Sweepstakes Casino No Deposit Bonus list to get started. These platforms offer exciting ways to engage with social casino gaming while avoiding real-money gambling.
The Winning Formula for MMA Betting and How BetSurfer Gives You the Edge
MMA has taken the world by storm. With promotions like the UFC, Bellator, and ONE Championship growing in popularity, fight nights have become must-watch events. Naturally, this excitement has carried over to the scene. Only the best MMA betting site offers action-packed opportunities for fans to cash in on their knowledge of the sport.
But let’s be real — betting on MMA isn’t always easy. Upsets happen, judging can be unpredictable, and the sheer number of fight styles makes it tricky to predict outcomes. That’s where BetSurfer steps in, giving bettors an edge with smart insights, real-time data, and expert advice.
Fight Matrix Program – UFC 313: Pereira vs Ankalaev (03-18-2025)
Light Heavyweight Championship (205)
[#1][#8DD][#5P4P][#1UFC] Alex Pereira (12-2-0, -119) vs. [#3][#3UFC] Magomed Ankalaev (20-1-1, -102)
Alex Pereira is the All-Time #14 ranked Light Heavyweight and #49 ranked Absolute fighter.
Magomed Ankalaev is the All-Time #27 ranked Light Heavyweight fighter.
Last 3 Fights: Alex Pereira (3-0-0)
2024-10-05: W vs. [#8LHW] Khalil Rountree (13-7-0) via TKO (Punches) in 4:32 of round 4
2024-06-29: W vs. [#2LHW][#10P4P] Jiri Prochazka (31-5-1) via TKO (Head Kick and Punches) in 0:13 of round 2
2024-04-13: W vs. [#4LHW] Jamahal Hill (13-3-0) via KO (Punches) in 3:14 of round 1
Last 3 Fights: Magomed Ankalaev (2-0-0, 1 NC)
2024-10-26: W vs. [#23LHW] Aleksandar Rakic (14-5-0) via UD (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
2024-01-13: W vs. [#13LHW] Johnny Walker (21-9-0) via KO (Punches) in 2:42 of round 2
2023-10-21: NC vs. [#13LHW] Johnny Walker (21-9-0)
| System | Favorite | Rating | Rating Diff | Win % |
| Betting Odds | Alex Pereira | -119 | 51.83% | |
| Elo K170 | Alex Pereira | 2301.88 | +82.59 | 61.67% |
| Elo Modified | Alex Pereira | 2263.89 | +54.04 | 57.71% |
| Glicko-1 | Alex Pereira | 2399.12 | +80.63 | 61.40% |
| WHR | Alex Pereira | 2171.55 | +123.01 | 67.00% |
Days Since Last Pro Fight: Alex Pereira 154, Magomed Ankalaev 133
Previous Match-up Record: No previous match-ups.
Wins Against Common Opposition: Alex Pereira leads 1-0
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Lightweight (155)
[#5][#5UFC] Justin Gaethje (25-5-0, +108) vs. [*] Rafael Fiziev (12-3-0, -128)
Justin Gaethje is the All-Time #13 ranked Lightweight fighter.
Rafael Fiziev is the All-Time #50 ranked Lightweight fighter.
Last 3 Fights: Justin Gaethje (2-1-0)
2024-04-13: L vs. [#4LW] Max Holloway (26-8-0) via KO (Punch) in 4:59 of round 5
2023-07-29: W vs. [#6LW] Dustin Poirier (30-9-0) via KO (Head Kick) in 1:00 of round 2
2023-03-18: W vs. [*] Rafael Fiziev (12-3-0) via MD (29-28, 28-28, 29-28)
Last 3 Fights: Rafael Fiziev (1-2-0)
2023-09-23: L vs. [#8LW] Mateusz Gamrot (24-3-0) via TKO (Knee Injury) in 2:03 of round 2
2023-03-18: L vs. [#5LW] Justin Gaethje (25-5-0) via MD (29-28, 28-28, 29-28)
2022-07-09: W vs. [#21WW] Rafael dos Anjos (32-17-0) via KO (Punches) in 0:18 of round 5
| System | Favorite | Rating | Rating Diff | Win % |
| Betting Odds | Rafael Fiziev | -128 | 53.86% | |
| Elo K170 | Justin Gaethje | 2266.79 | +349.47 | 88.20% |
| Elo Modified | Justin Gaethje | 2211.91 | +306.89 | 85.40% |
| Glicko-1 | Justin Gaethje | 2261.68 | +296.39 | 84.63% |
| WHR | Justin Gaethje | 1976.06 | +103.38 | 64.45% |
Days Since Last Pro Fight: Justin Gaethje 329, Rafael Fiziev 532
Previous Match-up Record: Justin Gaethje leads 1-0-0
Wins Against Common Opposition: No common opposition or both are winless against common opposition.
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Women Strawweight (115)
[#5][#5UFC] Amanda Lemos (14-4-1, +106) vs. [#10][#10UFC] Iasmin Lucindo (17-5-0, -128)
Last 3 Fights: Amanda Lemos (1-2-0)
2024-07-20: L vs. [#2SW][#4DD][#5P4P] Virna Jandiroba (21-3-0) via Submission (Armbar) in 4:48 of round 2
2024-02-17: W vs. [#6SW] Mackenzie Dern (15-5-0) via UD (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
2023-08-19: L vs. [#1SW][#1DD][#1P4P] Weili Zhang (26-3-0) via UD (50-43, 50-44, 49-45)
Last 3 Fights: Iasmin Lucindo (3-0-0)
2024-10-05: W vs. [#11SW] Marina Rodriguez (17-5-2) via SD (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)
2024-05-04: W vs. [#44SW] Karolina Kowalkiewicz (16-9-0) via UD (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)
2023-08-12: W vs. [#79SW] Polyana Viana (13-7-0) via Submission (Arm-Triangle Choke) in 3:42 of round 2
| System | Favorite | Rating | Rating Diff | Win % |
| Betting Odds | Iasmin Lucindo | -128 | 53.63% | |
| Elo K170 | Amanda Lemos | 1706.38 | +34.71 | 54.98% |
| Elo Modified | Amanda Lemos | 1696.13 | +75.21 | 60.66% |
| Glicko-1 | Amanda Lemos | 1693.03 | +90.69 | 62.76% |
| WHR | Amanda Lemos | 1605.17 | +90.53 | 62.74% |
Days Since Last Pro Fight: Amanda Lemos 231, Iasmin Lucindo 154
Previous Match-up Record: No previous match-ups.
Wins Against Common Opposition: Even: Both have 1 win(s) against common opposition.
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Michael Chandler: Tennessee’s MMA Powerhouse and UFC Star
Michael Chandler is one of the most explosive and dynamic fighters in mixed martial arts history. With an impressive wrestling background, heavy hands, and relentless pace, he has cemented his place among the elite of the lightweight division.
From his early days in Missouri to becoming a champion in Bellator and a top contender in the UFC, Chandler’s career is a testament to perseverance, hard work, and elite-level athleticism.