There is a terrible misconception that MMA is more dangerous than boxing. This is completely false. Yes, there are times when MMA can be barbaric.

But think about this: what would have happened if the Hardy (the Brit with the Mohawk the original poster mentioned) bout would have been a boxing match? After having his brain rattled, he would have been given a 10 count to get up. He would have made the count, and depending on his recovery time, he could have suffered another several minutes (or rounds) of blows to the head.

Although the MMA fininsh looks more brutal and even cowardly, the fallen fighter was better off taking the one or two extra punches on the ground. Those ground punches are not nearly as hard as a standing punch, A) because you can't put your whole body into it and B) because fighters hold back because if they miss, it means a broken hand on the mat.