In an interview conducted by Bob Carson earlier this week, UFC Vice-President of Regulation, Marc Ratner, divulged that he is “very bullish” on the prospects of MMA being sanctioned in the state of New York by the first quarter of 2009.
Speculation has run wild as to when New York might see MMA sanctioning, since the latest bill to regulate the sport could not pass through New York’s Tourism Committee.
As MMApayout reported, the appointment of Melvina Lathan as Chairwoman of the New York State Athletic Commission seems to be an ace in the hole for MMA enthusiasts. Ratner cites Lathan’s passion for MMA and her experience in boxing administration as assets to the NYSAC and the future of MMA in New York.
Early indications seem to be that the first events will be held in upstate New York – areas like Albany, Buffalo, and Rochester – in order to fulfill on the promise that MMA events, and in particular UFC events, will help to bring millions in spin-off revenue to the communities they visit.
New York City, specifically Madison Square Garden, could be the target for a UFC event in late 2009.