Over the course of his lengthy and prosperous career, renowned Brazilian mixed martial artist Mauricio Rua has made important contributions to the sport. In addition to his physical skill, he is renowned for his perceptive observations on the nature of struggle and competition.
Mauricio Rua talked about the idea of employing every weapon in a battle, including the smart use of elbows, in one of his interviews. Because they can inflict a great deal of pain or damage when used properly, elbows can be very effective weapons in combat sports. They are not risk-free, though; using them effectively requires knowledge of both their potential benefits and drawbacks.
Rua's statement highlights the need for fighters to be ready for every facet of a fight, including the difficult decisions and maneuvers needed to outmaneuver opponents. It's similar to saying that in order to win a game of chess or any other strategic game, players must think through every move they make, even the ones that might appear harsh or unusual. A fighter needs to be prepared to use every tool available to them, just as a chess player might sacrifice a pawn to make room for stronger pieces.
The harsh reality of combat sports, where victory frequently necessitates not only skill and stamina but also an unwavering willingness to face discomfort and make tough choices, is reflected in this quote. Anyone who has ever participated in competitive activities that require complete dedication and occasionally difficult decisions to succeed will find resonance in it.