MMA cage: complete buying guide
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The essentials: an MMA cage is chosen on four criteria — the shape (octagonal, hexagonal or circular), the size (4.5 m to 9 m), the build (floor level or raised platform) and the use (training or competition). Every Esprit Boxe cage comes with its matting.
Equipping an MMA gym, or putting on a show? The cage is the central piece of equipment. This guide gives you everything you need.
MMA cage versus boxing ring
| Criterion | MMA cage | Boxing ring |
|---|---|---|
| Shape | Octagon, hexagon or circle | Square |
| Perimeter | Steel mesh fence | 3 or 4 ropes |
| Disciplines | MMA, grappling, jiu-jitsu | Boxing, kickboxing, savate |
| Footprint | From 5 × 5 m of fighting surface | From 3 × 3 m of fighting surface |
The 5 types of MMA cage
Recommended dimensions
| Size | Space required | Use |
|---|---|---|
| 5 × 5 m / 16 × 16 ft | 9 × 9 m / 30 × 30 ft | Training club |
| 6 × 6 m / 20 × 20 ft ★ | 10 × 10 m / 33 × 33 ft | Regional competition standard |
| 8 × 8 m / 26 × 26 ft | 12 × 12 m / 39 × 39 ft | Professional competition |
| 9 × 9 m / 30 × 30 ft | 13 × 13 m / 43 × 43 ft | UFC / IMMAF international level |
Always allow 1.5 m (5 ft) of clearance around the cage for safety and for the seconds to work.
5 criteria for choosing
- 1Use: training or competition? Floor level is enough for a club. A certified platform is required for official shows.
- 2Floor area: measure the space including the safety zones, 1.5 m (5 ft) of clearance on every side.
- 3Platform height: 50 cm (20 in) for training, 100 cm (39 in) for IMMAF competition.
- 4Fence: galvanised steel with foam padding around the whole perimeter — mandatory in sanctioned competition.
- 5Matting: high-density foam of at least 3 cm (1.2 in) plus a non-slip vinyl cover, included with every Esprit Boxe cage.
IMMAF standards checklist
- ✓ Octagonal cage only
- ✓ Minimum dimensions: 6 × 6 m (20 × 20 ft) between the walls
- ✓ Platform height: 100 cm (39 in)
- ✓ Galvanised steel fence, at least 1.50 m (5 ft) high
- ✓ Foam padding around the entire fence
- ✓ Two opposing gates with secure locking
- ✓ Safety zones of 1.5 m (5 ft) around the platform
Warranty, manufacturing and delivery
Every Esprit Boxe MMA cage carries a 10-year structural warranty and 2 years on the corners and the matting, in normal use.
- Manufacturing: around 3 to 4 weeks once your choices of dimensions, colours and cage plan are confirmed.
- Delivery: 6 to 8 weeks, by lorry — the site must be accessible to heavy goods vehicles. Delivery included.
- Assembly: modular, with the panels slotting onto the posts. Fitting instructions and an assembly plan are supplied.
- Customisation: matting, perimeter skirt, corners and logos to choose from on the platform models.
Plan ahead: allow 9 to 12 weeks in total between confirming your order and putting the cage into service. A show therefore needs to be planned at least three months in advance.
Esprit Boxe MMA cages
Frequently asked questions
What is the standard size of an MMA cage?
IMMAF standard: 6 × 6 m (20 × 20 ft) between the walls, on a 100 cm platform. For training: 5 × 5 m (16 × 16 ft) at floor level. The UFC uses a 9.1 m (30 ft) diameter.
How much does an MMA cage cost?
It depends on the shape, the size and whether it sits at floor level or on a platform. A floor level cage for a club is the entry point, a certified IMMAF competition cage the top of the range. The price of each model is shown on its product page, in your local currency.
Is the matting included with an MMA cage?
Yes, on every Esprit Boxe cage. High-density foam matting and a non-slip vinyl cover are included with every model.
How long does installation take?
Floor level cage: 2 to 4 hours with 2-3 people. On a platform: 4 to 8 hours with 3-5 people. A detailed assembly plan is supplied.
What is the difference between an octagonal and a hexagonal cage?
The octagon, with 8 sides, is the UFC and IMMAF standard. The hexagon, with 6 sides, offers wider angles, which reduces situations where a fighter is trapped against the fence and encourages stand-up exchanges. It is not certified for official IMMAF competition but suits clubs and private shows perfectly.
What warranty comes with an Esprit Boxe cage?
10 years on the structure and 2 years on the corners and the matting, in normal use. Allow 3 to 4 weeks of manufacturing after your choices are confirmed, then 6 to 8 weeks for delivery by lorry, included.
