Mixed martial arts (MMA) is best known for its promotion through Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), which airs countless live shows on pay-per-view (PPV) and FOX Sports, headlined by top stars like Georges St. Pierre, Anderson Silva and Jon Jones.
But there's more to the story than just televised cage fighting.
At POW MMA Fight Club in North Park, San Diego, California, wounded warriors like Iraq war veteran Todd Vance are using combat sports training to help alleviate post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), where he -- along with other veterans facing similar physical and metal challenges -- can "let out their aggression and anger in a physically stimulating manner."
Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel profiles the POW MMA Fight Club tomorrow night (Tues., June 25, 2013) at 10 p.m. ET on HBO.
UFC has been a staunch supporter of the armed forces Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund, frequently holding "Fight for the Troops" live shows to help raise money for veterans with traumatic brain injuries. In addition, UFC was sponsored by Unties States Marine Corps through late 2012.
Replays of Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel air June 26 and 28, as well as July 1, 6 and 11. It will also stream via HBO on Demand and HBO GO. Check your local listings.