South Carolina looking to sanction MMA
By Jim Murphy May 9th, 2008The Palmetto State is looking to follow the lead of their Northern neighbors and sanction professional MMA in the state:
South Carolina could join its neighbors in allowing mixed martial arts contests under legislation up for discussion next week by a Senate panel.
Proponents say the increasingly popular combative sport, which combines elements of karate, judo, jujitsu and kickboxing, would bring money and tourists to the Palmetto State. They contend mixed martial arts has evolved from its no-holds-barred past to a regulated sport broadcast on TV, and South Carolina should share in the wealth.
The measure, set for debate Wednesday, would repeal South Carolina’s ban on such fighting events and direct the State Athletic Commission to regulate what Forbes magazine recently labeled “the billion-dollar blood sport.”
“You’re having events all around you, and no revenue’s coming into your state,” said Marc Ratner, a vice president of Las Vegas-based Ultimate Fighting Championship, which has looked at Columbia as a possible venue if legalized.
Ratner said the sport is no more violent than boxing and attracts younger audiences. “It’s just a different form of combat sport,” said Ratner, a former executive director of the Nevada State Athletic Commission.
Earlier this month, a UFC event in Montreal attracted more than 19,000 fans for a $5 million gross at the gate, he said. Other events are being considered in Atlanta and Charlotte, N.C.
“It’s a moneymaker,” said Sen. Jake Knotts, R-West Columbia, who met with Ratner and sponsored the bill at the State Athletic Commission’s request.
