From a more detached sociological point of view, however, several theoretical questions come to the fore. In this article, we discuss two of them. The first question concerns the theoretical notion of sportization, as introduced by Norbert Elias. On the contrary, they are consciously increasing the level of violence of fighting contests by withdrawing or abolishing rules, penalties and physical protections used in existing combat sports. The second question concerns the explanation of this process of de-sportization.
Ultimate fighting is organized for commercial interests.
The fighters, trained in various styles of the martial arts, take the risks of participating in these combats, because they hope to win cash prizes and to enhance their reputation as ruthless combat champions. For the spectators, ultimate fighting provides a new type of excitement which does not have socially and personally dangerous implications. In the context of this explanation, we hypothesize that the process of de-sportization is not confined to the rise of ultimate fighting. Willem Koert 'Tales of Strength. In this article stories, told in a Dutch bodybuilding gym, are analyzed.