In our recent discussions in class we talked about how we are more and more entertained by violence in sports. The media portrays and emphasizes violence and uses many metaphors to war language. One result of this that I can think of is the revolution of Mixed Martial Arts, such as UFC. Joe Rogan talked on CNN about the debate over UFC vs traditional boxing. As per our class discussions, he mentioned how we as society are more and more inclined to watch UFC because we appreciate the violent aspect and the "sport of fighting" that is not as adequately portrayed in boxing. Do you think that the media's portrayal of violence and sport lends a direct hand to the gradual shaping of interests for UFC over traditional boxing?
Eunice Park
KIN 577
I think the media’s portrayal of violence in sports is stronger than ever. Boxing may have been America’s first sport in fighting but his new wave of MMA, has become popular because of its novelty in fighting. I’ve only watched 1 UFC fight ever and that is because it was too gruesome for me to watch. For me personally, watching people get beat up and bleeding almost to the point of death is not entertaining. However, that’s what society today wants to watch. There’s no giving up in sports as we have read in class, you play through your weaknesses and injuries. At least that what the masculine image portrays. Much like the video demonstrated, sport is war. Athletes are soldiers and need to be fearless. I just recently learned that one of my brother’s classmates at Mater Dei HS became paralyzed his sophomore year at a HS baseball game. I don’t know the details of his injury but this case is unfortunate. This athlete gave up his life playing sports, just as many athletes do. Whether it is for the experience, challenge, thrill, fame, or enjoyment of sport, I feel athletes are not expecting to become seriously injured during their athletic careers. Imagine after 1 bad UFC match you are out for the rest of your career? Is it worth it? Is anyone’s health worth sacrificing just for a few minutes of glory?
ReplyDeleteCynthia Gonzalez
Kin 577