The World’s Toughest Sports — The Sporting Blog

Boxers must be able to read their opponents’ movements and anticipate their next move, while also creating openings to attack.

Furthermore, hard-hitting boxers need to be mentally tough to withstand the gruelling training regimen and the pressure of competition.

The mental fortitude required to succeed in boxing is as important as the physical attributes, as it enables boxers to stay focused and maintain their composure, even in the face of adversity.

This unique combination of physical and mental toughness can be alluring to people who want to push the boundaries of their mind and body.

The competitive nature of the sport can also be quite alluring to individuals across the world, and boxing is particularly popular in countries such as Cuba and the US.

Additionally, future boxing superstars may be drawn to boxing as a means of self-defence or as a way to develop skills for other combat sports.

Regardless of what allures you to pursue this sport, it is worth noting that you need to take the necessary precautions and learn proper techniques to minimise the risks of practising boxing.

Famous boxers include:

2. Mixed Martial Arts: A Multi-Skilled Approach to Attack and Survival

• Stamina is required as well as a wide variety of fighting skills

• Training levels are known to reach peak intesity before big fights

• UFC, Pride and Bellator have made MMA a genuine mainstream sport

Mixed Martial Arts, or MMA, have taken the world by storm over the last 2 decades.

Names such as Ken Shamrock, Connor MacGregor, Jon Jones and Anderson Silva have become known outside of the Octagon, a testament to the sports growth and popularity.

But why is MMA so tough?

• Wrestling, Jiu-Jitsu, Boxing and Kickboxing combine to make it the ultimate test of fighting skill

• Knees, Elbows and feet are uncovered – head shots are going to hurt, a lot

• Submission holds are some of the most feared weapons in an MMA fighters arsenal

• Almost ‘anything goes’ once in the ring – this unpredictablity makes the whole thing an intriguing and dangerous affair

• Energy management is crucial – on the floor grappling is draining and can leave you tired and therfore exposed once (if) back on your feet

• Self protection is crucial – if you slip and are on the floor, your oppenoent is going to get on you fast, and pound your head until you give up or get KO’d

The sport is now being picked up by more and more everyday folks as well, we have a beginners guide to MMA here.

The rise in popularity amongst people looking for self defence and general wellbeing improvements cannot be understated, this also helps drive the continued growth of MMA.

3. Rugby: You Need Brutal Force on the Field

• Collisions, high-tackling, spearing and gouging are all possible in the heat of battle

• Rugby requires a high level of skill, strategy and teamwork

• Athletes are drawn to this sport for its camaraderie and sense of belonging

“Damn, it’s brutal out here” – the thought that runs through everyone’s minds when they see a rugby match for the first time!

Unlike some of the other sports on our list, it is pretty easy to see why rugby has its rightful third spot on our list.

Much like boxing, rugby is considered one of the toughest sports in the world due to its physical demands and the brutal, high-contact nature of the sport.

Both Rugby League and Rugby Union require a high level of skill, strategy and teamwork.

The sport is uniquely challenging because it demands both physical and mental toughness, and players need to be able to make quick decisions under immense pressure.

More so, rugby players must possess great strength, an incredibly high level of fitness and endurance, and high levels of toughness to endure the physical demands of tackling, scrums and rucks.