by Dr. Johnny Benjamin on Feb 26, 2009 at 3:01 pm ET
As a professional who is occasionally asked to comment on issues related to MMA, I struggle with attempting to reconcile the views of the hardcore fans and those of the mainstream audience.
Hardcore fans may be the heart and soul of MMA, but the mainstream audience represents the potential for future growth and greater prosperity. Also, the views and concerns of legislators reflect the beliefs of their mainstream base.
Hardcore fans seem to commonly forget or dismiss that for many, perception is reality. Therefore, every time a MMA fighter is portrayed in the media in a negative light (especially alleged criminal conduct, violent outbursts, illicit drug use, etc.), the general perception of MMA is damaged in the court of public opinion.
You may say that you don't care about public perception, but legislators most certainly do.
Many of the negative stereotypes are fueled by these all-too-common random occurrences. But what about the recurring spectacle called "The Ultimate Fighter" on Spike TV?
Is "TUF" perpetuating negative public perception of MMA and thus hindering the efforts to further legalize the sport?
Generally poor, antisocial behavior; profanity-laden rants; and over-the-top buffoonery may make for compelling reality TV, but it does little for those that are attempting to explain this sport to a legislative body of mostly college-educated, middle-aged people, many of whom are attorneys.
"TUF" may have brought a great many 18-34-year-old males to MMA, but it is a "Jackass" parody of MMA. People attempting to engage in an intelligent discussion regarding MMA should not use an episode "TUF" as their basis.
Remember, for the masses perception is often reality.
(Now let the intelligent discussion begin.)
