The legislative wheels to legalize mixed martial arts fighting in Ontario continue to turn, with matches possible by the spring of 2011, CTV News has learned.
The Ontario government has a goal of having regulations in place to govern the fighting sport within 60 days, CTV Toronto's Paul Bliss reported Friday.
The government has concluded its public consultation this week. The government heard from the fighters and from doctors who oppose allowing MMA matches.
The Ontario Athletic Commission has the job of coming up with the rules, which will govern areas such as safety, rules and revenues.
Once that job is completed by Christmas, fight promoters can apply for licences to hold matches.
Bliss reported that the government will be asking for a bigger take from MMA matches than it does from boxing.
Boxing promoters have to pay two per cent of revenues. MMA promoters will have to pay five per cent -- something the government expects will promote safety, he said.
The government estimates 10 to 15 matches will be held in the province every year, including one so-called mega-match.
Such a mega-match could generate $6 million in economic activity for the host community, he said.
The Liberal government of Premier Dalton McGuinty had long dragged its feet on the MMA file. McGuinty said early this year that dealing with the sport wasn't a priority for his government.
Ultimate Fighting Championship, the sport's marquee organization, had been lobbying for the government to change its mind.
In mid-August, the government said it would allow MMA bouts in Ontario.
Shortly after that decision, the provincial New Democrats asked the provincial integrity commissioner to investigate as to whether any illegal lobbying took place.
With a report from CTV Toronto's Paul Bliss
