Are you considering stepping into a ring or cage for the first time? Think you're ready? Are you sure about that? Before you agree to a fight, there are some very important points to take into consideration. Are you in good enough shape? Has your training fully prepared you for what might happen in the ring? Do you have an accurate estimation of your own skills and weaknesses, or are you surrounded by "yes men" who only tell you what you want to hear? This no-nonsense guide is certainly not a complete list of issues to consider before fighting, but it covers some of the most important bases to cover before you even think about taking your first match.