Pankration is an ancient Greek martial art that combines elements of boxing and wrestling. It was introduced into the Olympic Games in 648 BC and was known for its minimal rules, allowing a wide range of techniques, including strikes, holds, and grappling. Competitors, called pankratiasts, used their strength and skill to defeat opponents in a contest of both physical and mental endurance. The sport was popular among Greek warriors and was often practiced as a means of self-defense. Unlike modern mixed martial arts, pankration had few restrictions, with only biting and eye-gouging prohibited. This made it a challenging and exciting spectacle in ancient Greek culture.