Earlier mainstream MMA events like the first few UFC tournaments actually allowed groin strikes. I know for at least several bouts the athletes would have a gen

Earlier mainstream MMA events like the first few UFC tournaments actually allowed groin strikes. I know for at least several bouts the athletes would have a gentleman's agreement not to employ them despite the legality. Beyond that, the problem with attacking another man's genital's is...he can attack yours too. So the athletes employ defensive measures that usually nullify each other. There are some positions like full guard where groin strikes are much easier to pull off for one person. And what can I say - that's hard to watch. Usually at the least they're wearing cups but it can still be painful.