The U.S. House of Representatives Energy and Commerce committee convened on Thursday (Dec. 8, 2016) in Washington, D.C., to discuss the state of mixed martial arts (MMA). Specifically, the health and safety of combat sports fighters which may include the extension of the Ali Act, currently protecting boxers.
Guest speakers include former Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) Light Heavyweight Champion Randy Couture, as well as UFC Vice President of Athlete Health and Performance Jeff Novitzky.
Even though UFC tried to block “The Natural” from participating.
Safety in UFC and MMA have been a hot topic of late, prompting the formation of professional associations like Mixed Martial Arts Athletes Association (MMA) and Professional Fighters Association (PFA).
The inclusion of the Ali Act could render them unnecessary; however, there is still a long way to go before anyone puts pen to paper. In the meantime, UFC will continue to self-monitor its fighters.
For better or worse.