If you want to be a successful MMA fighter there are two traditional martial art systems that you should know. In addition, dependent on your definition of traditional, there are two other fighting systems that should be trained.
However, even though the first two are originally derived from traditional systems of martial arts they have been heavily modified to suit modern day real fighting conditions. These first two are:
1) Muay Thai: This is by far the best striking system for MMA. The speed, power and economy of motion of Muay Thai techniques make this fighting system second to none in the mixed martial arts
cage. Modern Muay Thai is a stripped down version of the traditional Muay Thai as it is trained for fighting in the ring. This is reflected in its' very fast and efficient striking strategies.
2) Brazilian Jiu Jitsu: Once again this system of fighting developed by the Gracie family, in Brazil, from traditional Jiu Jitsu and Judo has proven, by far, to provide the best ground fighting tactics for MMA. So much so that fighters who give their main discipline as Wrestling have incorporated aspects of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, particularly the finishes into their game.
In addition to these two traditional fighting disciplines there is at least two other systems that should be included. These fighting systems are not considered as traditional from the Asian martial arts perspective but are certainly traditional fighting systems if you look at them from a western perspective. These two are
1) Western boxing: By far the best standup punching system. Although Muay Thai has very strong striking techniques the traditional punching methods are not as developed as Western boxing. Many Thai fighters have incorporated Boxing's punching techniques into their training to produce an extremely effective hybrid form of Muay Thai.
2) Western Wrestling: By incorporating Wrestling takedowns into the standup grappling phase of MMA training and top game maneuvers on the ground together with Brazilian Jiu Jitsu finishes and ground game tactics you will develop a very complete MMA grappling game.
MMA has evolved very rapidly from its' early days and continues to develop into a distinctive fighting discipline. However, it is very clear that to be successful a fighter and coach the fighting systems discussed above are essential traditional disciplines that all MMA fighters should know.
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