I was not mentioning the Spartans as a defense for cage fighting, I was just stating that it reminded me of it. I don't think children should be participating in this.
We have a sickening custom among British teenagers called "Happy Slapping", it is the practise of deliberately making digital recordings of children fighting in the playground. These images are displayed on the internet, its disgusting. This example of entertainment in poor taste is no better.
Discussion about Happy Slapping can be found in this Topic: Ever Been "happy-slapped"?. There is also a version in the Mature Board.
So far it looks like Missouri is the only state to allow this kind of fighting.
Kids Battle in the Ring
Mixed martial arts, a full-contact hybridized fighting style, has made its way from the margins to the mainstream. Now, it's even become popular among children. Kids as young as 6 train with instructors in the kicking, punching and pinning that characterize this violent sport. But does this new pastime put youngsters at too much risk? ESPN's TJ Quinn reports for "Nightline."
Any parent letting their child participate or watch this need to be shot on site. Their body is growing and this type of combat caused life long damage to the body how much more so for a young child? Brain damage being one of the worst side effects.