The aim of the study was to examine if the sport Mixed Martial Arts could serve as a enabling element for young people in society and in such a case, in wich way. The following questions were asked in the study:How does coaches and young practioners of MMA experience that the sport affects the living conditions of individuals?Could MMA act as a protective factor in preventing social problems?What is the practioners point of view on the criticism of MMA and the risks of practioning MMA?The study was conducted through the qualitative research approach. Empirical data was collected through semi-structured interviews with practioners of an MMA club situated in an area with low socioeconomic status. The empirical material was analyzed based on a number of theoretical concepts, in wich the perspective of risk- and protective factors had an significant part. The result show that MMA could affect the living conditions of individuals in many ways, one of them is the coach as a supportive adult to young people. There are a number of social aspects associated to participation in MMA, as to acquire self-esteem and a social context. The young practioners does not agree on the criticism toward MMA of being brutal and adverse, instead they claim that MMA is characterized by humility and respect to your opponent. They admit that there are injuries following the practice of the sport, as in any sports, thus it is the social advantages that keeps them continuing to practice MMA.