Sports are usually a leisure activity. Whether practicing or simply watching them, they offer great entertainment alongside other benefits. They are also a way of socializing. And a medium for people from different races, cultures, and creeds to come together and celebrate the achievements of their favorite teams and/or athletes. They are also a great opportunity for profit. That’s why there are many sites dedicated to being a hub for sports betting for those who want to delve into that industry.
All of these facts contribute to the idea we have in our modern era that sports are a simple pastime with little influence in the real world. However, such a notion is completely misinterpreted. While it is true that most of them come from simple games that were evolving into something bigger. The fact of the matter is that some sports are a testament to not-so-peaceful times. And even a way for nations to take back some of the pride that had been taken from them.
Combat Sports is not the same that Martial Arts
Combat sports are popular. Because they offer a high-adrenaline environment, reminiscent of warriors facing each other. That stimulates our fighting instincts. Of course, in our times they are far from the bloody and deathly matches held in the past, like for example the gladiatorial games. Nevertheless, as the name suggests, they are real combats, even if the rules tuned them down to avoid serious injuries as much as possible. In that context, it is easy to see them as a synonym of martial arts. Yet, that’s not entirely true.
We must not forget that martial arts were invented and further developed primarily as self-defense and/or combat methods in times were people’s lives depended on how well they could protect themselves, their families, and their communities. While this phenomenon was a somewhat common occurrence worldwide, it was particularly prolific in Asia. Several countries have their form of martial arts, for instance:
- China: Shaolin Kung Fu, Shuai Jiao, Wushu, Tai Chi, Sanda, Wing Chun
- India: Kalaripayattu
- Japan: Karate, Kobudo, Judo, Ju Jitsu, Kendo, Aikido, Ninjutsu
- Korea: Taekwondo, Ssireum, Hapkido, Tang Sang Do
- Myanmar: Lethwei
- Philippines: Eskrima, Kali
- Thailand: Muay Thai, Muay Boran, Krabi Krabong
- Vietnam: Vovinam
Many of them are now are a part of the Olympic Games or have their own type of championship either at the national or international level. Most of the time the Top Asian and European Bookmakers offer their odds for those that want to risk some money on their favorite combatant.
Beating them on their own game
Black powder and firearms modernized warfare, pushing physical strength and martial arts to sports while preserving their essence. With black powder and firearms revolutionizing warfare, physical strength and martial arts evolved into sports, retaining their originality. Additionally, many Asian countries take great pride in the achievements of their athletes. And national teams have achieved in tournaments and competitions. However, there are other cases where the sport does not originate from a part of their culture but was imported. Even so, they manage to learn and master it to such an extent. Nowadays it is a part of their day-to-day lives. The most famous example is without a doubt Cricket.
Even if other sports coming from former colonialist countries such as football, basketball and even badminton found a privilege place in the Asian market. None of them can compare to the popularity Cricket has in the whole continent. Especially in the Southeast. Originally from medieval England, this bat-and-ball game came to the land during the British Empire era. At first it was a played only by the elites. Yet it later became a game for the masses and its popularity in the region well surpassed the one in its homeland.
In the 18th century, England considered cricket as its national sport, but nowadays people around the world associate cricket with South East Asia. And especially India. The reason is quite simple, almost everyone is crazy about the sport there. Players participate in multiple leagues, cups, and championships at different levels throughout the year. Residents there have become true masters of the game and have taken it to the highest level of competitiveness.
Moreover, the biggest proof of appropriation comes in the fact that England. As the country of origin, inaugurated and has hosted the Cricket World Cup 4 times. Yet they were able to win it just recently in 2019. On the other hand, former colonies or occupied territories such as Australia, India, and the West Indies (Caribbean countries) have claimed the cup on multiple occasions. These are but the tip of the iceberg when it comes to examples of how sports evolve and how much they can affect a population. A constant reminder of their importance.
