After years of prohibiting prize fighting in sports like boxing and mixed martial arts, Prince Edward Island (P.E.I.) is considering legalizing certain combat sport competitions. The province’s criminal code currently prohibits prize fighting, which involves hand-to-hand or foot-to-foot combat, in many instances. However, the government is now seeking feedback on potential legislation to regulate both professional and amateur boxing, kickboxing, and mixed martial arts (MMA) events on the island.
Neighboring provinces such as Nova Scotia and New Brunswick already permit tournaments in these sports. Matt MacGrath, the owner of Renzo Gracie Gym in Charlottetown, believes that it is high time for P.E.I. to follow suit. MacGrath expressed that numerous fighters from his gym, both amateur and professional, have had to travel to other provinces to compete. He emphasized the importance of allowing these athletes to showcase their skills in front of their families and generate revenue within the province.
MacGrath highlighted the economic benefits that prize fighting could bring to P.E.I., mentioning potential revenue streams for hotels, restaurants, nightlife establishments, and the events themselves. Zack Bell, the Minister of Fisheries, Tourism, Sport, and Culture in P.E.I., echoed MacGrath’s sentiments, emphasizing that the proposed legislation is long overdue. Bell emphasized the importance of participant safety, proper oversight of organizers and governing bodies, and aligning with established practices in other provinces.
In addition, Bell sees the potential for tourism growth through combat sports events, particularly with the rising global popularity of sports like MMA. He emphasized the need to remove barriers that prevent families and fans from attending these events locally, highlighting the current inconvenience of having to travel to neighboring provinces. Both MacGrath and Bell emphasized the importance of recognizing MMA and similar combat sports as legitimate sports that require training, preparation, and proper regulations to ensure the safety of participants.