Do you have to compete in ammy before going pro MMA?

[Brent Smith]

At least in Oregon you dont have to fight amateur at all before going pro. You just have to pay for the pro card and get the physical and youre good to go. The good thing about fighting ammy though is you have a chance to build your name and get paid more when you do get your pro card. Ive seen alot of guys go pro after only one fight and get paid $500 total and thats including the win bonus. I also saw an amateur champion go pro and fight for 1500 for his pro debut. Plus even if you have a losing record as an amateur it all goes away when you turn pro. Its a good way to get all the first time fighting jitters out of the way.

[stlnl]

Hey dudes. Just have a question today. I was wondering if you have to compete in amateur mma before going pro? TBQH, I don't like the idea of amateur MMA. I don't like to wear headgear or shin guards unless I'm sparring. I don't like fighting in orgs with differing rules for amateurs and no sanctioning. I don't like the fact that I won't be getting paid (in case I am injured). It's not to say I won't have any experience before my first pro fight. Amateur boxing (ammy boxing is much diff than ammy mma, there is a sanctioning body in my province), pro kickboxing and grappling are all on my resume. My coaches want me to 'test the waters' in ammy but I'd rather just get right in there. I don't plan on having a long career so I want my fights to count. Thanks.

If you have a pro kickboxing match, under most sanctioning bodies, you are not allowed to fight as an amatuer. Also most states with ammy MMA, dont wear headgear or shin pads. Regarding getting paid, most states with ammy MMA have insurance to cover an in fight injury. Amatuers have different rules for good reason, elbows that give you nasty scars for one.