Assemblyman Al Stirpe (D-Cicero) applauded the passage of a bill in the Assembly that legalizes mixed martial arts (MMA) events in New York State and institutes stringent safety standards for the sport (A.2604-C).

“Currently, amateur MMA participants across the state compete in unregulated, and potentially unsafe, events,” Stirpe said. “It’s time to bring this sport into the light in order to ensure the safety of its competitors.”

The prospect of professional MMA events is also a great economic opportunity for the state, Stirpe noted.

Under the Assembly’s measure, the New York State Athletic Commission (NYSAC) would regulate MMA in a similar manner to the way it oversees other combative sports like boxing, wrestling and kickboxing. The Department of State would also be tasked with researching new ways to provide health care for fighters during and after their careers and to improve overall safety.

The sport’s promoters – most notably the nationally recognized Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) – would have to carry accident insurance with a minimum benefit of $1 million for the treatment of brain injuries and $50,000 for medical, surgical and hospital care.

“While MMA fans and advocates have been disappointed that it took so long for this bill to pass in the Assembly, the end result is a more comprehensive piece of legislation that provides greater protections for fighters and their families, both during and after their careers,” Stirpe said.

Though MMA advocates have focused on the potential of big-time fights in venues like Madison Square Garden, Assemblyman Stirpe looked forward to revenue that events in upstate communities would bring in.

“The growing popularity of MMA across an increasingly diverse fan base means that events in-state are likely to draw tourists and boost local economies,” Stirpe said. “I’m particularly excited that Central New York’s own Mike Mucitelli will be able to compete in his home state in front of his family and friends.”

Mike Mucitelli hails from Brewerton and has a record of 7-3 in his promising MMA career.