# What is cauliflower ear?

Cauliflower ear is a permanent ear deformation common in wrestlers, BJJ practitioners, and MMA fighters. It happens when blunt trauma to the ear causes blood to collect between the skin and cartilage (called a hematoma). If left untreated, the blood hardens and the ear develops a lumpy, cauliflower-...

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**Tags:** injury, prevention

**Source:** [BJJ Notes Knowledge Base](https://www.bjjnotes.app/knowledge-base/what-is-cauliflower-ear)