What is the ruling on MMA, a sport that relies on striking all over the body, with other ways to win such as submission and stalemate? And what is the alternative for getting used to enduring injuries and pain and acquiring courage, if it is forbidden, to expose oneself to situations of confrontation and friction to acquire these qualities?
Sports that cause harm to the body, especially the face, are not permissible in Islamic law, due to the Prophet’s (peace and blessings be upon him) saying: "When one of you fights, he should avoid the face." And in another narration: "He should not strike the face." The apparent meaning of this prohibition is that it is haram (forbidden), because the face is a delicate organ that encompasses beauty, and striking it may disfigure, diminish, or deform it. Among the forbidden activities are professional wrestling and boxing if they cause harm, but they are permissible if there is no harm involved, or if they involve training in strength and self-defense.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
Read the full answer on Ftawyhttps://ftawy.com/en/questions/161407