Following the New York State Athletic Commission’s incompetence in the handling of a near-fatal boxing match several years ago, new insurance requirements for promoters will likely keep all but the big organizations out of NYC.
Back in 2013, Dagestani heavyweight boxer Magomed Abdusalamov had compiled an 18-0 record and amassed various Russian titles en route to his match-up against Mike Perez. Though most of the heavyweight’s wins took place via technical knockout within the first five rounds, he was pushed to a ten round decision loss against Perez, where he suffered significant brain damage during the contest.
The effects of the vicious beating Abdusalamov received that night were visible during the fight and in its immediate aftermath. He was eventually taken to hospital by his team, where a small blood clot was discovered. He was placed in a medically induced coma, though suffered a stroke thereafter that left him with permanent brain damage and paralysis. New York Office of the Inspector General released a 50-page investigative report in 2016 that revealed how the New York State Athletic Commission’s complete incompetence and mishandling of the situation placed a part in Abdusalamov’s career-ending injury.
According to Inside MMA’s Amy Dardashtian, the NYSAC announced that combat sports promoters must take out a $1 million insurance policy if they plan to host events within the state. This is a direct result of the commission’s mishandling of the Abdusalamov situation.
“The insurance requirement protects the health and welfare of fighters and we are confident that an affordable policy that meets the requirements of the law will be available very soon,” the NYSAC said in a statement. “The New York State Athletic Commission is prepared and is looking forward to overseeing the first authorized professional MMA event under the new law on November 12th at Madison Square Garden.”
The controversial incident morphed into a case of widespread corruption within the commission, including nepotism. The report from the Inspector General, which was allegedly held up to limit the damning evidence against bringing MMA to NYC, revealed details as to how the commission went about its business.
As of the time of publication, only the UFC and WSOF are scheduled to host MMA events in New York City.
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