The Doggy Bag: Sprechen Sie UFC 122?

With the UFC going back to Germany for a second time, is there a real hope for MMA in the country? I know Germany loves boxing and that seems to be a stumbling block. Is MMA in the same place in Germany that it was in the United States in the late 90's? If so, I think Germany could become a real MMA powerhouse in 10 years or so if the UFC keeps putting in the effort.
-- Brian from Boise

Tim Leidecker, European correspondent: The equation that MMA in Germany in the year 2010 corresponds to the situation in the U.S. around the turn of the century is used readily and frequently. While it is true in part, especially when the political climate is concerned, I find a comparison to the UK scene six or seven years ago more appropriate.

While English fighters have always been among the top ten in Europe, it took them at least half a dozen UFC events on UK shores, diligent media work and public education as well as hours and hours of UFC programming on TV and years in the gym to catch up to the popularity and skill level found stateside.

Just a rough comparison: The UK has a total population of around 60 million people; Germany has over 80 million people. Germany has traditionally been much more successful than the UK in combat sports. In the four Olympic disciplines -- wrestling (Greco-Roman and freestyle), judo, boxing and tae kwon do -- Germany has medaled 125 times, UK athletes just 82.

As soon as those athletes recognize MMA as a legitimate, challenging and potentially profitable sport -- a true alternative or addition to their original discipline -- Germany has the potential to become very successful in MMA as well. The German people first have to repeat the feat they achieved in 1989, though -- tear down the walls, only this time, in the mind of society.