Source: ESPN.com
-- The UFC is one step closer to getting mixed martial arts sanctioned in New York. This afternoon, New York Governor David Patterson will be in Albany to begin formal hearings on Bill No.S02858, which would allow the New York State Athletic Commission to regulate the sport.
UFC President Dana White is already sketching plans for a show in Madison Square Garden in the fall. "I'm very confident we're going to be in New York in 2009," White said. "It's going to be fun when we roll into New York."
In November, the UFC held a round-table discussion in Manhattan. In attendance were members of the Tourism, Arts and Development committee, as well as representatives from the New York State Athletic Commission and Madison Square Garden. The UFC also commissioned an independent economic impact study that showed a UFC event would generate $11.5 million for the city.
"Our events have brought millions of dollars in tax and tourist revenue to nearly every city we have held an event," White said. "We are constantly breaking arena records for concession sales, merchandise and ticket sales. We're thrilled about the prospect of bringing our sport to New York and hope that legislators will recognize the tremendous economic opportunity it represents."
For more on this developing story, visit ESPN.com.
