Stage 1 & 2 — Your Path to the Final 250

Stage 1 — The Trials of Combat

  • 100 fights max. This is your buffer — you don’t need to hit 100 to qualify.

  • Win to advance. You need at least 50% wins in one discipline (striking or ground fighting).

  • No wins, no go. Hit 30 fights with zero victories and you’re out for the year.

  • Switch it up. Didn’t hit 50%? You can split your wins between striking and ground fighting. Keep a combined 50% win rate to get on the backup list — for fighters who may fill spots in Stage 3.

  • Fast track. Reach your win goal early? Congrats — you’re ready for Stage 2. Keep fighting if you want, but it’s not required.

Stage 2 — The Refinement Phase

  • Keep going. All fighters aiming for Stage 3 must complete Stage 2 or risk disqualification.

  • Grow beyond the fight. Stage 2 tests your discipline, consistency, and character:

    • Track your training, diet, and reflections.

    • Give back — teach a class, help others, or do a community challenge.

    • Stay in shape — conditioning checks and verified fights keep you ready.

  • Finish strong. Complete Stage 2 successfully to lock in your spot for Stage 3. Backup fighters must also finish Stage 2 to step in if openings appear.

Stage 2 — Combat Verification & Community Challenge

Purpose

Stage 2 focuses on proving that each competitor is more than a fighter—they are a force for good in their community and a representative of the MMA Institute’s values. Advancement to Stage 3 requires both combat performance and verified community engagement.

1. Duration & Verification

  • Stage 2 spans six (6) months.

  • Completion must be verified through the MMA Institute Central Office, where participants check in before advancing to Stage 3.

  • Fighters must provide official proof of completion, including combat results and community documentation.

2. Monthly Combat Requirement

  • Participants must complete one (1) sanctioned fight per month, totaling six (6) verified fights.

  • Matches may be either Kumite (striking) or Grappling-only.

  • External events held through approved organizations are accepted with proper verification.

  • All results must be uploaded to the participant’s MMA Institute account with video or photographic proof.

3. Performance Standard

  • Fighters must achieve a minimum of four (4) victories out of six fights.

  • Failure to secure four wins results in termination from the tournament, unless the participant completes 100% of the Community & Character Challenge, which demonstrates exceptional commitment and leadership beyond competition.

4. Stage 2 — Community & Character Challenge

Purpose:
To cultivate leadership, empathy, and responsibility by requiring fighters to make a tangible positive impact within their community.

Task Categories (Complete at Least 25%)

Community Cleanup

  • Pick up trash in public areas (parks, streets, beaches, or neighborhoods).

  • Submit photos or short videos as proof.

Elderly & Vulnerable Assistance

  • Help elderly neighbors with chores, errands, or yard work.

  • Volunteer at nursing homes, senior centers, or community programs.

Teaching & Mentorship

  • Offer free self-defense sessions at schools, youth clubs, or community centers.

  • Teach a skill outside of fighting (music, coding, art, fitness, etc.) in your local community.

Public Service & Volunteering

  • Participate in charity drives, public events, or community initiatives.

  • Support local non-profits with your time or skills.

Note: This is not the complete list. See your local MMA Institute Information Center for the full catalog of approved tasks.

5. Community Challenge Requirements

  • Participants must complete at least 75% of the available tasks in combination with their fight wins within the six-month period.

  • All activities must be verifiable through:

    • Photos or videos with visible date stamps

    • Signatures from organizers or beneficiaries

    • Optional social media posts tagging the MMA Institute and the activity