The prestige of martial arts and combat sports from a sociological perspective

Background. Prestige is one of the most valued social resources. The ongoing transformation of martial arts into combat sports inspires scientific analysis of these changes, and above all, a search for the sources of prestige for both martial arts and combat sports. Problem and aim. The aim of the research is to consider martial arts and combat sports through the prism of social prestige, but also to indicate its different sources. Results. Both martial arts and combat sports enjoy recognition and social prestige, but the genesis of this prestige is completely different. Martial arts prestige derives from the tradition, customs and culture of Asian societies. On the other hand, the prestige of combat sports arises from the logic of (post)modern societies, which is focused on success, fame and money. It is also a consequence of such processes as globalization, mediatization, commercialization, professionalization and spectacularization of combat sports and martial arts. Conclusions. Martial arts prestige is based on fully humanistic and personalistic premises, while the prestige of combat sports is based on the logic of pragmatism, material benefits and success, often at any price.