The West Virginia legislature passed legislation on Saturday which would allow the state to host mixed martial arts events. West Virginia is one of the last states that did not regulate MMA in its state. New York is the most notable holdout of MMA in its state.
Via WSAZ.com:
West Virginia could host mixed martial arts events under legislation passed by the state Legislature.
The Senate voted 23-10 in favor of the measure Saturday.The House then sent the bill to acting Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin on a 71-26 vote.
Opponents criticized the sport’s violence and argued it would hurt boxing. Supporters pushed the sport in part because it could bring in national sporting events.
Mixed martial arts combines elements of karate, judo, jujitsu and kickboxing. Of the 48 states with athletic commissions, all sanction the sport except West Virginia, Connecticut, New York and Vermont.
H/t John Luther via twitter.
Payout Perspective:
This news tops off a monumental day for the state of MMA. This is good news for supporters of MMA since Connecticut recently contemplated similar legislation. New York is still the big holdout here although new legislation has been introduced in its senate.
So what are the remaining states to legalize? NY, Conn, anybody else? And Conn. already has Indian tribes that put on shows.
NY, Conn and Vermont.
The answer to the question will eventually be none, It’s just a matter of time.
Being from WV, i am suprised. We had corrupt politicians who are paid off by toughman contests to prevent MMA from happening. At one time they even got choked banned so even grappling competitions were illegal but it got reversed. This is a situation that without the work of a large promotion like the UFC and MArk Ratner and the gang this would have never been passed. It took the prospects of big business and major events to get it done and small regional shows may not have got it done. With that said there have been local shows in KY on the border who get most of their fighters from my local gym in WV and most of their fans. They have been really blowing up. Their success ona small level might have opened some eyes at the possible success of the sport on all levels.