Very few sports score as many winces per minute as MMA. 

It’s a very painful-looking sport, and it can be hard to watch at times if you’re squeamish. What if I told you there was a version of it where the participants were protected by metal medieval armor? Wouldn’t you think that would be safer? WRONG. They’re also using axes, swords, and clubs to bash each other into oblivion.

Welcome to the world of armored combat, where nerds who got a little too into European history as kids can finally beat each other to a pulp with huge dangerous weapons. You’ll practically feel your teeth rattle when you check out these pictures from various medieval combat leagues around the world. 

Clang!