Mixed Martial Arts Movies You Can Watch Tonight
Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) has gained immense popularity over the years, captivating audiences with its intense combat and adrenaline-pumping action. In the world of cinema, the best MMA movies offer a thrilling and immersive experience, bringing the excitement of this combat sport to the big screen.
From gritty dramas to heart-racing action, these films deliver high-octane thrills that will leave you standing up and cheering. Join us as we explore 10 gripping MMA movies that are sure to ignite your passion for the sport.
*(This article may contain spoilers. If you haven't seen the film you're reading about, proceed with caution.)
- Warrior (2011)
- Never Back Down (2008)
- Bruised (2020)
- Redbelt (2008)
- Locked Down (2010)
- The Fighter (2010)
- Undisputed III: Redemption (2010)
- The Hammer (2010)
- Blood and Bone (2009)
- Here Comes the Boom (2012)
- The Philly Kid (2012)
Film 1: Warrior (2011)
In this emotionally charged film, estranged brothers Brendan and Tommy reunite to compete in a winner-takes-all MMA tournament. As the brothers face their demons inside and outside the cage, the film showcases the violent and unrelenting nature of MMA.
With each bone-crushing blow and each sweat-soaked training session, Warrior delivers authenticity and heart, captivating audiences and giving us moments worth cheering for.
Film 2: Never Back Down (2008)
Never Back Down tells the story of Jake Tyler, a talented young fighter who discovers MMA as an outlet for his rage and emotional turmoil. The film explores the transformative power of the sport, portraying the physically demanding training and the exhilarating fights with a sense of realism.
As Jake overcomes his personal struggles, we are treated to thrilling fight sequences that keep us on the edge of our seats, erupting in cheers as the hero emerges victorious.
Film 3: Bruised (2020)
In the 2020 MMA movie, Bruised, a disgraced former fighter, Jackie Justice, re-ignites her career against all odds. Balancing life as a single mother and coached by a grizzled veteran trainer, she dives back into the brutal world of MMA.
Through blood, sweat, and tears, Jackie redefines herself, conquering her own demons and reestablishing her self-worth in a world that seemed to have given up on her.
Film 4: Redbelt (2008)
Redbelt takes a unique approach to MMA by exploring the philosophical aspects of the sport. The film follows jiu-jitsu master Mike Terry as he navigates the world of competitive MMA while staying true to his principles.
With its intricate plot and thought-provoking themes, Redbelt offers a different perspective on MMA, earning admiration from both martial arts enthusiasts and casual moviegoers. The film's compelling fights and moral dilemmas ignite cheers as viewers witness Terry's unwavering integrity.
Film 5: Locked Down (2010)
Locked Down stars Tony Schiena as Danny Bolan, an undercover police officer falsely accused and sent to one of the most dangerous prisons. Inside the corrupt system, he is forced into a brutal underground fighting ring run by a sadistic warden.
Surrounded by savage inmates, Danny must battle for survival while uncovering the truth behind his imprisonment. Despite the odds, he fights relentlessly to clear his name and regain his freedom.
Film 6: The Fighter (2010)
Based on the incredible true story of boxer Micky Ward, The Fighter offers a gripping portrayal of the dedication and sacrifice required to succeed in combat sports. While primarily focused on boxing, the film's intense training montages and thrilling fight sequences capture the essence of MMA.
You will find yourself emotionally invested in Micky's journey and rooting him on as he defies the odds and emerges triumphant.
Film 7: Undisputed III: Redemption (2010)
Undisputed III: Redemption is widely regarded as a great movie due to its thrilling fight sequences, gripping storyline, and exceptional performances. The film combines intense MMA action with a compelling redemption arc, keeping us glued to the screen from start to finish.
With its impressive choreography, charismatic characters, and relentless pace, Undisputed III: Redemption stands as an exemplary MMA movie that will leave you cheering for more.
Film 8: The Hammer (2010)
The Hammer is a compelling MMA movie that depicts the real-life story of deaf wrestler and MMA fighter, Matt Hamill. The film's engaging storyline, authentic depiction of Hamill's struggles and triumphs, and the lead actor Russell Harvard's outstanding performance make it a standout in the genre.
Additionally, the fight scenes were choreographed to perfection, capturing the excitement and grit of MMA while showcasing Hamill's impressive skills in the octagon.
Film 9: Blood and Bone (2009)
Blood and Bone is a must-watch for MMA movie enthusiasts, as it offers a unique blend of jaw-dropping fight scenes and a compelling storyline. The film follows ex-con Isaiah Bone, played by Michael Jai White, as he enters the underground world of illegal fighting to seek vengeance and redemption.
With its slick martial arts choreography, intense action sequences, and charismatic performances, Blood and Bone delivers an adrenaline-fueled experience that will leave you wanting more.
Film 10: Here Comes the Boom (2012)
Here Comes the Boom, features Scott Voss, a high school biology teacher played by Kevin James. When budget cuts threaten the music program and its teacher's job, the unenthusiastic Voss steps up, deciding to raise funds by becoming a mixed-martial arts fighter.
Despite his lack of training, he courageously dives into the sport and embarks on a hilarious and inspiring journey, demonstrating the profound impacts of perseverance and belief in oneself.
Honorable Mention: The Philly Kid (2012)
The Philly Kid centers around Dillon McGuire, played by Wes Chatham, a former NCAA champion wrestler who is falsely imprisoned after a tragic event. Upon his release, Dillon becomes entangled in the dark world of underground cage fighting to save his childhood friend Jake from a dangerous debt.
As Dillon is pushed deeper into the brutal MMA scene, he must battle past his own demons and vengeful enemies to protect his friend and reclaim his life.
Captivating Martial Arts Stories in Film
MMA movies tap into the raw intensity and fervor that the sport evokes, delivering captivating stories that have viewers standing up and cheering. From the authentic and intense fights portrayed in Warrior to the emotional journeys of redemption in Bruised and Never Back Down, these films provide a thrilling experience for both MMA enthusiasts and film lovers alike.
Whether it's the authentic fight sequences or the underlying themes of perseverance and determination, each movie on this list captures the essence of MMA, offering a high-octane journey that will leave you on the edge of your seat, cheering for more. Which ones have you seen and which ones are you adding to your watchlist?
