The Bible does not directly address the modern phenomenon of extreme fighting as a spectator sport. However, there are some biblical principles that can provide wisdom for Christians thinking about participating in or viewing violent sports like extreme fighting.
The Bible values peace and warns against unnecessary violence
The Bible consistently upholds peace and non-violence as virtues for God’s people. Jesus said “Blessed are the peacemakers” (Matthew 5:9) and taught us to “turn the other cheek” when faced with violence (Matthew 5:39). The apostle Paul instructed,”If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone” (Romans 12:18). Scripture also warns against loving violence, “Do not envy the violent or choose any of their ways” (Proverbs 3:31).
While the Bible acknowledges there are appropriate contexts for force or aggression, like self-defense or just war, it discourages unnecessary violence that serves no productive purpose. Senseless violence tends to reflect a flaw in one’s character more than God’s glory (Proverbs 3:31, Psalm 11:5).
Competition is not condemned, but should avoid greed and improper motives
The Bible does not condemn competition itself. Even Jesus used imagery of competition in his parables, like running a race to win the prize (1 Corinthians 9:24, Hebrews 12:1). However, Scripture cautions against competing out of selfish ambition, pride, or love of money rather than for the glory of God (James 3:14-16, 1 Timothy 6:10).
This principle would apply to extreme fighting. It is not necessarily wrong to engage in intense martial arts competitions to showcase talent and ability. But if the sport is pursued in a way that inflames violence, caters primarily to people’s greed and bloodlust, or incites ego and trash talk, then it could be problematic from a Christian perspective.
Christians should focus on spiritual rather than worldly battles
Rather than literal fist fights, the Bible calls Christians to engage in spiritual battles against evil, injustice, and sin (Ephesians 6:12, 2 Corinthians 10:4-5). We battle the forces of darkness by living righteously, spreading the gospel, and fighting for justice and human dignity. These causes deserve far more of our energy and attention than spectacles of violence.
Paul writes, “For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world” (2 Corinthians 10:3-4). While not entirely avoided, intense physical battles should not be a Christian’s primary focus.
Christians are called to value others above themselves
The Bible consistently calls Christians to look out for the interests and wellbeing of others, not just themselves. “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves” (Philippians 2:3).
The mindset required in extreme fighting runs counter to this ethic. Fighters must enter the cage focused on dominating their opponent by any means necessary to win. Some trash talk and taunting of opponents is even promoted. A self-sacrificial mentality of putting others first is replaced by a survival-of-the-fittest competitors’ mentality for the sake of entertainment.
The body is honored as God’s temple
Christians believe the physical body is sacred since God created it. As Paul writes, “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? . . . Therefore honor God with your bodies” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).
The intense violence and harm done to fighter’s bodies in extreme matches raises questions about whether this aligns with a Christian view of honoring the body as God’s holy temple.
Followers of Jesus are called to be examples of grace and character
Christians are urged to live in a way that attracts people to the gospel message. Jesus said, “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). And Peter wrote, “Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God” (1 Peter 2:12).
The trash talk, ego, violence and bloodshed readily associated with extreme fighting seems out of step with the kind of winsome character and virtue Christians are called to display.
Conclusion
The Bible does not directly prohibit or condemn extreme fighting. However, a closer analysis suggests the sport’s tendencies toward unnecessary violence, greed, self-promotion and harm to the body are difficult to fully reconcile with a Christian approach to life. Other athletic competitions or forms of entertainment are likely to be more compatible for Christians seeking to live out biblical values of peace, patience, humility and care for others.
At the same time, it would be unwise to judge or condemn individual fighters themselves or impugn their faith over participation in extreme fighting. Each person must follow their conscience under the guidance of Scripture and the Holy Spirit concerning these disputable matters of moral judgment (Romans 14:1-12).
Christians should also avoid a legalistic approach, recognizing that God cares more about the condition of people’s hearts and why they engage in various activities than creating long lists of forbidden behaviors. Extreme fighting may not be inherently sinful, but wisdom is still required to ensure it does not negatively shape one’s character or priorities in life.
Ultimately, Christians affirm that our worth and identity is in Christ, not our prowess and performance in athletic arenas (Philippians 3:8-10). Our lives should be characterized by the fruit of His Spirit – “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control” (Galatians 5:22-23) – even more than physical strength and competitive zeal.