I am surprised that most of the opposition to mixed martial arts seems to be for reasons having nothing to do with its obviously disgusting, barbaric nature ("Another round in MMA battle," Feb. 26). For me, it represents a degeneration of our culture and a further decline in our civilization.
It is not sport. It is not entertainment, except perhaps for those with a moronic interest in receiving or inflicting pain. Isn't it ironic that a state that prides itself on its cultural advancement — art, music, literature, science, etc. — and one that long ago banned bull, bear, dog and cock fighting could now consider pitting two rational human beings against each other in a no-holds-barred combat?
Isn't it also ironic that none of the opposition to this travesty seems to be coming from our cultural standard-bearers in the arts, religion and education?
How could we have allowed once-valued principles and standards to slip to such an extent? What a terrible example for our youth.
FRANK J. MURRAY
Troy