Grant Rochelle is a writer and traveler, using his passion for storytelling and photography to create tales grounded in truth.

Featured essay

Two mixed martial arts fighters are engaged inside an octagon cage. One fighter, with tattoos and wearing black shorts, is delivering a high kick to the other fighter, who is wearing white shorts. The fighter in white shorts is shielding his face with his hands. The background shows the octagon’s fence and a dark arena setting.

Image courtesy of Full Contact Fighting Federation

Payouts and Knockouts is an unflinching look into the world of mixed martial arts fighting. Combining interviews, research, and the spectacle of a local MMA bout, it attempts to understand why people want to fight, and why anyone would want to watch.

Payouts and Knockouts: The Allure and the Angst of Mixed Martial Arts