If you’re looking for a gift for the combat sports enthusiast in your life, here’s a diverse mix of books that explore the history, culture, and personalities of martial arts, boxing, and wrestling. Each book offers something unique for fans of the combat sports game.
The Rise and Evolution of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
This fascinating book delves into the less popularized side of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu history, focusing on the contributions of figures like Carlson Gracie and the sport’s journey from Vale-Tudo to global democratization. A must-read for grappling enthusiasts curious about BJJ’s untold stories. Buy it here
Iron Ambition by Mike Tyson
Boxing legend Mike Tyson offers a heartfelt tribute to his mentor and trainer, Cus D’Amato, in this introspective memoir. Tyson shares lessons on life, discipline, and the sport of boxing, making this book both emotional and illuminating.
Shamrock: The World’s Most Dangerous Man by Jonathan Snowden
This in-depth biography of MMA and professional wrestling pioneer Ken Shamrock traces his remarkable journey. Snowden captures Shamrock’s rise from a troubled youth to a trailblazer in combat sports with vivid storytelling and detailed research.
Fat City by Leonard Gardner
A gritty novel about boxing life in a small California town, this classic portrays two fighters at different crossroads. Leonard Gardner’s prose brings the sweat, desperation, and fleeting glory of the fight world to life in unforgettable detail.
The Last Wrestlers by Marcus Trower
Marcus Trower’s journey across the globe takes him deep into the traditions of indigenous wrestling. From India to Mongolia, he explores why humans have ritualized grappling and what these traditions reveal about the cultures that nurture them.
A Fighter’s Heart by Sam Sheridan
Sam Sheridan takes readers on a global adventure to train with some of the most renowned fighters and martial artists. From Muay Thai in Thailand to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Brazil, his quest reveals the passion, discipline, and personal sacrifices of those who dedicate their lives to combat.
Kakutougi Boom: Volume I by Keith Vargo
Kakutougi Boom chronicles combat sports rise in Japan in mid-1990s to the mid-2000s. This book sets the stage for the series with essays about the the history and development of combat sports in Japan and some profiles of some of both well-known and lesser known names in the game.
Dark Trade: Lost in Boxing by Donald McRae
This critically acclaimed book provides an intimate look at boxing through interviews with icons like Mike Tyson and James Toney. McRae weaves together the highs and lows of the sport, capturing its beauty and the toll it takes on its participants.
A Season on the Mat by Nolan Zavoral
This engaging book chronicles wrestling coach Dan Gable’s 1997 season, offering a rare glimpse into the world of collegiate wrestling. It’s a powerful story of grit and determination, celebrating one of the sport’s most legendary figures.
Domino Diaries by Brin-Jonathan Butler
This memoir provides a heartfelt exploration of Cuba’s boxing culture and its intersection with the country’s political landscape. Butler’s time training with Cuban boxers and chasing Hemingway’s ghost creates a compelling narrative full of passion and reflection.
The Pyjama Game by Mark Law
Mark Law’s journey into the world of judo offers a delightful mix of humor, personal growth, and historical insight. As he delves into the sport’s evolution from Japan to the global stage, readers are treated to an engaging exploration of “the gentle way.”
Shooters by Jonathan Snowden
Jonathan Snowden expertly traces the evolution of catch wrestling, showing how it influenced professional wrestling and MMA. Packed with historical detail, this book is perfect for fans interested in grappling’s deep roots in combat sports.
Gods of War by Springs Toledo
This collection of essays celebrates boxing’s greatest champions with poetic prose and sharp analysis. Springs Toledo elevates the sweet science into an art form, offering readers a thoughtful and passionate exploration of the sport.
The Hurt Business
This anthology compiles 100 years of the finest writing about boxing, including Mark Kriegel’s standout essay on Oscar De La Hoya, “The Great (Almost) White Hope.” It’s a rich celebration of boxing’s storytelling tradition, showcasing the drama and humanity of the ring.
American Shaolin by Matthew Polly
Matthew Polly’s memoir recounts his journey to the Shaolin Temple in China, where he trained in kung fu and immersed himself in the life of a monk. With humor and introspection, Polly captures the challenges and triumphs of his extraordinary quest.
Live Fast, Die Young: The Life and Times of Harry Greb by Stephen Compton
Stephen Compton offers a meticulously researched biography of Harry Greb, one of boxing’s most enigmatic figures. This book captures Greb’s fierce fighting style and the fascinating, turbulent life he led outside the ring.
Combat Sports in the Ancient World by Michael B. Poliakoff
Michael Poliakoff’s scholarly exploration of ancient combat sports highlights wrestling, pankration, and gladiatorial contests. This book is a captivating read for history buffs and combat sports fans interested in the origins of martial traditions.
Atlas: From the Streets to the Ring by Teddy Atlas
Teddy Atlas’s autobiography details his journey from a troubled youth to a revered boxing trainer. His candid reflections on life, redemption, and the fight game make this a moving and inspirational read.
Dempsey (Out of Print)
This biography of heavyweight legend Jack Dempsey captures the man behind the gloves. Though rare and out of print, it’s a sought-after treasure for fans of boxing’s golden age.
