At yesterdays meeting, the Massachusetts State Athletic Commission voted 3-2 in favor of a 6 month moratorium on approving any new amateur sanctioning bodies. They felt that it would be best to work with just the one organization currently approved, KICK, until amateurs become fully operational. There was also a motion to look into allowing the state to sanction amateurs. Unfortunately, for this to happen, it would have to go through the legislature which would probably take at least a year.
Personally, I would love to see this happen. It would allow for a “one-stop” shop for all things MMA in Massachusetts. It would also allow for an easier transition from amateur to pro, no issues with hiring of officials, and overall streamlining while keeping the costs minimal to promoters and fighter alike.
I agree Kevin, the way NH does it is perfect! I’ll be dealing with KICK at the end of the month, I’m interested to see how it goes.
wtf.. I wonder who the two sensible votes were? something stinks here. I’ve heard from several people who I respect and trust that this ‘kick’ organization is not up to par but the commission continues to use them along with a referee who has no business being in this business in that capacity.
Why are efficient methods and alternatives to the broken situation being ignored and swept under the rug by the msac?
I sent a formal written complaint to several officials and it was not even discussed at the meeting. I know this has happened not only to me.
These people in charge are impossible to get in touch with and once you do they have nothing intelligent to say. I’m sick to my stomach over what’s happening and how blatant it is.
If anyone of whom i’m speaking reads this, you should be ashamed of yourself and embarrassed.
I agree that the MSAC should be over seeing the amateurs!!!
Mike so as of now amateurs do not need licensing in mass?
From what I understand, Amateur officials (i.e. referees and judges)do in fact need to be licensed by both the state and by KICK, but fighters and corners need to be licensed by KICK only.
If I am incorrect, someone feel free to clarify.
Yea Kevin this is how I understand it as well – The course the ones took with KICK was just to get certified with them. Those same people need to go through the state as well to be given work. Fighters need KICK Lic and Corners even if already state Lic need a KICK Lic as it’s a separate group.
Corners shouldn’t have to be licensed or pay anyone any kind of fee. If someone has a great corner, good for them. There’s nothing a “bad” corner can do to hurt a fighter other than throw in the towel needlessly or put icy hot on open cuts. If I ever fight again, I’m just coming out with two blow up dolls.
Mark Hoxie for president!