Is MMA ready for the first shin-kicking-based fighter?

Mixed Martial Arts famously derives its techniques from those parts of all the world’s fighting traditions that work. ‘Work’ is defined as tested against competent fighters, from other fighting traditions.

Aikido for example is said to work great on unsuspecting drunks. It does not work well against someone with basic boxing and wrestling.

While wrestling, boxing, Muay Thai, and BJJ have proven to be among the fight sports with the most useful skill set, some fighters have used more obscure martial arts to great effect. Lyoto Machida for example took traditional karate to the world lightheavyweight championship.

Is the world ready for the first shin kicking based fighter? The historical record shows the sport goes back at least to 1636.

Contestants hold each other by the shoulder and try to kick shins and bring opponents to the ground. A Stickler, the ancient name for the shin kicking judge, who holds an actual stick, makes sure that shins are hit before a fall can count. The kickers wear the traditional white smocks associated with shepherds, and are allowed to protect their shins with straw

For a preview of what you might see when a proud shin kicker enters the cage, check out this video from The Coswold Olimpicks.