Cage size a hot topic among UFC fighters, with varying opinions

Does the size of the Octagon make a difference?

The question yields interesting opinions from fighters, and new possibilities for fight promotions.

When posed to prelim fighters at UFC 188 on Saturday, there were mixed reviews on whether different cage sizes play a factor in a fighter's tactical assault.

The UFC uses two separate cages at different events. One cage spans 30 feet across, while another is 25 - both bordered by six-foot-tall fences. The 30-foot battle pit allows fighters the luxury of more room, rather than being pressed against one another in the 25-foot version.

"I honestly don't care for the size of the ring, I'm always in there giving 110 percent trying to knock the guy out," Kelvin Gastelum told MMAJunkie.

"It absolutely does (make a difference)," Gilbert Melendez said. "If it was up to me, they'd make that cage smaller and make it a square."

"I'm not really sure the cage makes too much of a difference," said an undecided Charles Rosa. "I think it's really about the fighters, sometimes, maybe just the matchups."

MMAJunkie's inquiry highlights an interesting point. At UFC Fight Night 68, which used the smaller cage size, there were 10 finishes in the 12 total fights. At UFC 188 in Mexico City, seven of 11 fights were decided by the judges, and a few fights were anything but entertaining.

Although it's unclear whether the UFC will stick with one cage over the other, the differing takes from fighters regarding the topic could result in future changes.