The term “MMA” contains multiple layers of interpretation depending on the context. In the digital and internet field, it could refer to a top-level domain (TLD). In general, TLD is the last part of a website’s domain name, such as .com, .gov or .org. However, it’s important to mention upfront that, as per my search in IANA’s Root Zone Database and other recognized sources like ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers), .MMA is not listed as a top-level domain. This could potentially change in the future, as ICANN has been known to occasionally allow new TLDs.
It should be noted that MMA is commonly used as an abbreviation for Mixed Martial Arts, a full-contact combat sport that allows striking and grappling, both standing and on the ground, using techniques from various combat sports and martial arts. Here we are clearly deviating from the domain of TLDs, yet it’s worth mentioning given the context of MMA.
If we are to strictly adhere to the discussions around TLDs, it’s crucial to understand their classification into categories. There are two main types of TLDs: generic (gTLD) and country-code (ccTLD). gTLDs include extensions like .com, .net, .org. and .edu, among others. ccTLDs are specific to countries and regions, for example, .us for the United States, .uk for the United Kingdom, and .eu for the European Union. There are also sponsored top-level domains (sTLD) which are specialized and represent specific communities. An example could be .gov which is specifically for the government bodies of the U.S.A.
Registries manage these TLD’s according to guidelines defined by specific policies. For instance, Verisign manages .com and .net, while .edu is managed by EDUCAUSE. The responsibility of assigning IP addresses and managing TLDs falls on ICANN.
As already stated, .MMA does not currently exist as a top-level domain in the IANA’s Root Zone Database. It’s possible that it could exist in the future, as ICANN does introduce new TLDs occasionally. For example, new TLDs like .app, .blog, and .google were introduced in the last few years.
It is noteworthy to include that there is also a growing market for branded TLDs. Major corporations have been known to apply for their company name or brand as a TLD. Therefore, if MMA was an acronym for a particular corporation or brand, it is conceivable that they could apply for .MMA as a TLD.
In conclusion, while there are many contexts in which “MMA” may be used, as per the IANA Root Zone Database and ICANN, .MMA is not currently recognized as a top-level domain. For more accurate and up-to-date information, refer to these recognized sources.
Sources:
1. ICANN: https://www.icann.org/
2. IANA – Root Zone Database: https://www.iana.org/domains/root/db
3. Verisign: https://www.verisign.com/
4. EDUCAUSE: https://www.educause.edu/
