Combat Sports span a broad range of disciplines, from boxing and wrestling to grappling and martial arts, with deep historical roots that trace back to ancient civilizations. With burgeoning advancements in sports science and technology, as well as a heightened focus on mental health and societal implications, there is a growing need to explore these athletic contests from an interdisciplinary perspective. In this special issue of Frontiers in Sports and Active Living, we aim to bridge the gap between physiological, psychological, sociological, and technological studies in combat sports.

From the blood soaked sands of Antiquity to the luminous stadiums of Pay Per View broadcasts, society and individuals have always had a yearning to watch two people test their courage and strength in sanctioned combat. While many argue that these spectacles are inherently violent and exploitative, others highlight the importance of their ability to promote self-control and discipline as a means of personal and social evolution.

Training in combat sports requires not only intense physical exertion but also a strict adherence to rules and strategies, as well as an incredible level of mental preparation and focus. These traits can serve students beyond the combative arena, as they are often used as tools for coping with life’s challenges and anxieties.

Aside from promoting physical fitness and mental health, combat sports can also be a great way to make friends. Because they are done in pairs, students train alongside their peers and this can lead to friendly competition and team spirit. Additionally, a large number of adults have reported that their training in combat sports helped them to deal with bullying in their youth and later as adults.