8 Ways Fighter's Bodies Changed Forever Because Of MMA

To say that Mixed Martial Arts is a sport that comes with a potential for injury is probably quite a significant understatement.

However, for the most part, MMA has managed to remain technically safer than other combat sports such as boxing, as the lack of a standing count means that fighters generally don't take any more concussive trauma than is absolutely necessary during the course of a fight.

Provided the referee intervenes at the right time that is...

However, as anyone who has ever strapped on some gloves, laced up their wrestling shoes, or tied the belt on their gi can attest, injuries are inherent in combat sports, and you're bound to pick up a few along the away.

However, while a black eye or a fat lip will eventually heal, there are some injuries fighters have picked up during their time in MMA that have stayed with them, serving as a constant reminder of the wars they have engaged in inside the cage during their careers.

These guys suffered long-lasting battle scars all in the pursuit of glory in the sport of MMA.

One of the many reasons the Diaz brothers are two of the most beloved fighters in MMA is their predilection for engaging in all-out wars, regularly standing in the pocket with some of the most feared strikers in the sport and being ready to give as good as they get.

Unfortunately, while this has resulted into the Stockton natives having some of the most memorable fights in the history of the sport, Nate has developed scar tissue above his right eye leading him to bleed in just about every one of his fights.

While the regular sight of colour has only enhanced the love of Nate Diaz among his fans, having blood in a fighter's eyes can obscure vision, and lead officials to intervene.

This would become a major talking point following UFC 244, where Nate's scar tissue again gave way, leading to a pair of cuts both above and below his eye, forcing the doctor to stop the fight just as he began gaining momentum.