Despite his personal aversion to mixed martial arts, Gov. Dannel P. Malloy yesterday signed a bill that allows MMA promoters to organize matches anywhere in the state.
The bill to legalize MMA was passed on the last day of the 2013 legislative session after supporters overcame opposition that had in the past stalled efforts to expand the sport in Connecticut. Previously, professional MMA fights were permitted only at the state’s tribal casinos.
A separate provision that was included in the state budget for its 2014 and 2015 fiscal years makes promoters liable for any injuries experienced by fighters as a result of training or matches. MMA in Connecticut will be regulated by the state Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection.
With Malloy’s signature, New York is now the only state that prohibits professional MMA fights. New York does, however, allow amateur fights.
At a press conference following the legislative session, Malloy told reporters he would not be attending any fights regardless of his decision on whether or not to sign the MMA bill, saying MMA is “not my bowl of porridge.”
