Combat Sports Law

Update December 14, 2016 – Today I spoke with Andy Foster, Executive Director of the CSAC, who advised that the CSAC is not requiring C3 testing as part of the formal licencing application, however they will be conducting a number of tests over the next year and studying the data. He confirms that the CSAC … More California Adopts C3 Neurological Testing For Combat Sports Athletes

Although there is only one definitively diagnosed case of CTE in MMA there are many suspected cases (which can only be certainly diagnosed with brain autopsy upon death). Today, Dr. Ann McKee, a neurologist and Director of the CTE Center at the Boston University School of Medicine gave sobering testimony to Congressional Subcommittee on Commerce, … More Director of CTE Center Explains Disease’s Link to MMA

Today a Congressional hearing is taking place discussing Mixed Martial Arts in the context of considering the Muhammad Ali Expansion Act. Hearing overview document Statement of Jeff Novitzky Dr. Ann McKee Statement Lydia Robertson Statement Statement of Randy Couture You can watch the hearings here

An unusual ending occurred between Jake Ellenberger and Jorge Masvidal during the UFC’s TUF 24 finale card which took place in Las Vegas on December 3, 2016. Ellenberger slipped and his left foot wedged between the mat and the bottom fence..  Masvidal proceeded to (legally) reign down strikes until referee Herb Dean called timeout.  He inquired if … More The Ellenberger Appeal – Legal Principles in Play

Update January 13, 2017 – it is reported that Dana White has made a “real” offer to promote a McGregor / Mayweather boxing match with him being quoted stating “I’ll tell you what Floyd, here’s a real offer, and I’m the guy who can actually make the offer, and I’m actually making a real offer…We’ll … More Conor McGregor Obtains Professional Boxing Licence; But Why?

Today an anticipated press conference took place with the announcement of the Mixed Martial Arts Athletes Association. You can listen to full audio here courtesy of BloodyElbow.com Notable about today’s announcement was the involvement of 5 currently relevant UFC fighters who were willing to put their full weight behind the association.  The fighters included Georges … More Enter Mixed Martial Arts Athletes Association – Quick Thoughts

One of the competing groups seeking to organize fighters has lost one of its key players.  Leslie Smith, who was vocal in championing the Professional Fighters Association has published a letter explaining that she is stepping away due to sports agent Jeff Borris failing to keep fighter names considering joining the PFA confidential. This development occurs … More Leslie Smith Withdraws from Professional Fighters Association