Gina Carano and Women’s Mixed Martial Arts (MMA)

Gina Carano, an undefeated Xtreme Couture fighter (6-0), is starting to become known as the “face” of women’s mixed martial arts (MMA).

However, according to MMAjunkie.com, this is not exactly the type of label she wishes to hold.

For those of you who are unfamiliar, MMA is a full contact combat sport that employs various fighting techniques which combine martial arts traditions with non-traditions in competitions. From my understanding, you’re allowed to strike and grapple in this sport (aka – beat the crap out of each other).

Women’s MMA is gaining popularity in the martial arts arena. In particular, Gina Carano, EliteXC poster-girl, is generating attention. Right now, she’s gearing up to fight Kelly Kobald (16-2-1) on October 4.

However, as I mentioned earlier, “the face of MMA” is not exactly the type of title she’d like to hold.

Here’s what she told reporters:

“I am a recognized female in the sport, but I don’t think that I am the face of women’s MMA,” Carano said. “It’s just a label. I’m Gina Carano. You can label me that.”

However, she’s excited the sport is gaining attention.

“It’s been unbelievable to be at the forefront of women’s MMA,” Carano admitted. “Raising the recognition of the sport has been a blessing. The fan support has been amazing. I’m standing up here because of the fans.”

Her upcoming bout with Kobald will certainly be exciting, and the anticipation is generating some buzz in the MMA community, as Kobald, after debuting in 2002, went undefeated through her first 17 bouts.

“I’ve got one of the toughest fights of my life coming up,” Carano said. “I’m coming ready to fight. I’m going to give it my all.”

My favorite quote from Carano is her explanation as to why she likes to compete.

“Everyone has their own niche in life,” Carano said. “I just seem to gravitate towards physical violence.”