Lorenzo Fertitta recently claimed that if MMA were to become legal in New York, the UFC would commit to putting on “the most intense and epic series of major events” that the “Empire State” has ever seen.
The Business Council of New York State recently declared their support of the legalization of mixed-martial-arts in the state of New York, which led to Fertitta revealing UFC’s plans if the sport were to become legal in N.Y.
“I’ve said it before but I want to say it again to be clear,” Fertitta began. “The UFC is prepared to demonstrate its commitment to our New York fans, who’ve waited longer for legal professional MMA than our fans in any of the other 49 states. We are prepared to launch the most intense and epic series of major events over the next three years that the Empire State has ever seen.”
“With Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) being one of the fastest growing and popular sports in the United States, this legislation would help will bring much needed economic activity to New York’s sports and entertainment venues, hospitality industry and generate additional revenues for the State and local governments,” the Business Council stated.
Fertitta added, “If New York legalizes and properly regulates MMA in 2015, the UFC will hold a minimum of four events per year for the next three years. Yes, we will hold events in New York City – our fighters and our fans have been clamoring for the Garden and the new Barclays Center – but we are also looking forward to hosting at least three events annually in Upstate cities, where we will smash local box office records and bring in fans from Canada and states throughout the Northeast.”
