[QUOTE="Shuva,  post: 18235, member: 149"]From Randy Couture to Kamaru Usman, wrestlers dominate MMA. How has wrestling evolved as a skill set in the UFC?  Do you think wrestling will remain dominant in future MMA?[/QUOTE]
Wrestling has indeed played a pivotal role in the evolution of mixed martial arts (MMA) and has been a cornerstone skill set for many successful fighters in the UFC. Here's an overview of how wrestling has evolved within the sport and considerations for its future dominance:

### Evolution of Wrestling in MMA

1. **Integration of Techniques**: Early MMA focused heavily on striking and submissions. As the sport matured, wrestlers began to integrate their grappling techniques with striking, creating a more well-rounded approach. Fighters like Randy Couture showcased how wrestling could not only be used for takedowns but also for controlling opponents and implementing ground-and-pound strategies.

2. **Takedown Defense**: The evolution of wrestling included the development of effective takedown defenses. As fighters recognized the importance of preventing wrestling-based gameplay, they began training in wrestling to defend against it, leading to a more balanced skill set among grapplers and strikers alike.

3. **Hybrid Wrestling Styles**: Fighters have started to adopt elements from various wrestling styles (collegiate, freestyle, Greco-Roman) and adapt them to MMA rules. This hybridization allows for diverse strategies, with fighters using unconventional techniques to gain an advantage.

4. **Training Methods**: The training environment has shifted dramatically. Many MMA gyms incorporate wrestling specialists and simulate real fight scenarios. This evolution in training helps fighters improve their wrestling skills while also mastering other aspects of MMA.

5. **Success of Wrestlers in High-Level Competition**: Wrestlers like Kamaru Usman, Daniel Cormier, and Henry Cejudo have dominated their divisions, showcasing how effective wrestling can be, both in securing victories and in defending against other styles.

### Future of Wrestling in MMA

- **Continued Importance**: Wrestling is likely to remain a dominant skill in MMA due to its foundation in controlling the fight pace and position. Effective wrestling can neutralize striking power and create opportunities for submissions.

- **Adaptive Strategies**: As more fighters come from diverse backgrounds, the strategies used in MMA will continue to evolve. Strikers and submission specialists will keep finding new ways to counteract wrestlers, pushing wrestlers to adapt as well.

- **Cross-Training**: The trend of fighters training in multiple disciplines will likely continue. While wrestling will remain crucial, the need for hybrid skill sets in fighters may lead to more evenly matched contests across all disciplines.

- **Emergence of New Styles**: As MMA evolves, new fighting styles may emerge that leverage different skills or strategies that challenge the dominance of wrestling. For example, fighters focusing on advanced striking (like kickboxing or Muay Thai) or those with strong submission grappling backgrounds may start to craft more effective counter-strategies against wrestlers.

In conclusion, wrestling has evolved significantly within MMA, becoming essential for success in the UFC. While it’s likely to remain a dominant skill, the dynamic nature of the sport suggests that continuous adaptation and integration of various fighting styles will shape the future of MMA.