Unified MMA rules get an update
Enhancing safety and altering weight classes were the two of the changes the Association of Boxing Commissions made to the unified rules of mixed martial arts. The changes were made on Thursday when the ABC met in Montreal. Another noteable change involved the use of downward elbow strikes. The restricted areas, such as the back of the head, still apply. According to Keith Kizer, executive director of the Nevada State Athletic Commission, the rule was being over-regulated.
The change in the altering of weight affects the heavyweight division. Now, the division will be comprised of fighters ranging from 226 to 265 pounds. However, the decision is left up to each state as to whether or not it will adhere to these unified rules.
In essence, these rules are nothing more than guidelines as each state adjusts its scrutinizing eye on the sport of mixed martial arts. Safety should always be a primary concern in such a dangerous sport, but commissions must remember that fighters are expected to fight and they do so willingly.
On Thursday, nothing was really done to hinder that reality. Yet, with the sport growing at such a rapid rate, state officials should be careful about being too careful. After all, it is the ultimate fighting sport.
Recent Comments