ALBANY - The State Senate passed legislation to legalize and regulate mixed martial arts (MMA) competitions in New York State. The bill (S.2755), sponsored by Senator Joseph Griffo (R-C-I, Rome), would allow single discipline martial arts organizations to hold professional competitions in New York State and gives the state Athletic Commission the jurisdiction to regulate professional mixed martial arts promotions, participants, bouts and exhibitions.

“It’s long past time that we officially sanction this sport in the state,” Griffo said. “For five years, I’ve been making the case that the numbers don’t lie; bringing MMA events to New York State will have a tremendously positive impact through the jobs that can be created and the spending that will stimulate the economy.”

The sport has the fastest growing fan base of any sport in the world.

In America, 47 states allow MMA matches including New Jersey, Pennsylvania, California and Florida. The most notable of the professional MMA leagues, the Ultimate Fighting Championship, is also the most heavily regulated.  Since 2001, UFC has employed strenuous rules and regulations to protect its athletes, including medical testing and safety requirements more rigorous than those in professional boxing.

“New York needs to capitalize on opportunities that would continue strengthening our economy,” Senate Republican Leader Dean Skelos said. “I applaud Senator Griffo for leading the charge to legalize MMA in New York to help create new jobs, generate revenue, and bring our state in line with nearly every other state.”

The bill was sent to the Assembly.