Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is a brutal sport that, in recent decades, has grown to significant prominence. 

Whatever you make of the sport (and the often complicated and sometimes problematic climate that swirls around it), there's no denying its popularity, driven in large part by the UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship) brand - a multi-billion-dollar global enterprise. 

But if partially-clothed men/women beating the s*it out of each other is not quite your thing, may I interest you in a ludicrous twist on the sport? Armored MMA. 

It's absurd. It's crazy. And it's hilarious. Even the referee has to wear a helmet and gauntlets. 

Perhaps my favourite thing, though, is actually in the rules (yes, there is a rulebook):

6.1.3 Active Engagement: At all times, the fighters will continuously engage in the fight. Advancing on the opponent, or attempting to strike/grapple/take down the opponent will be considered engagement. Creating or using distance to evaluate or attempt an alternative strategy is considered affirmative action and will not be penalized as timidity.

NO TIMIDITY ALLOWED.