The evolution of combat sports is finally set to be recognised as the ACT government looks to implement adequate regulations to lessen the risks of serious injuries or fatalities.
ACT Sport and Recreation Minister Yvette Berry has introduced the Controlled Sports Bill to replace the Boxing Control Act of 1993 in a bid to encompass the growing landscape of combat sports.
Duke Didier is one of the faces of MMA in Canberra.Credit:Dion Georgopoulos
Berry says the bill aims to make all combat sports safer having implemented recommendations from the coronial inquiry into the death of boxer David Browne in 2015 in NSW.
Sports such as mixed martial arts and Muay Thai fell under the old Boxing Control Act but Berry hopes improved regulations changes will address safety and integrity concerns.
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"Given the particular profile of techniques performed in combat sport contests the risk of serious and enduring injury, including threat to life, is higher than many other sports," Berry said.
"The Bill defines events as registrable and non-registrable, which is specifically tied to the commercial purposes of the event, noting that there are higher integrity risks with commercially profitable events.
"This ensures appropriate rigour is applied when there is a significant exchange of funds, including large prize pools, regardless of the skill level of contestants."
The government shut down an entire Brace MMA show in May after "a number of medical clearances and other technical requirements under the Boxing Control Act were not met".
Caden Helmers is a sports reporter for The Canberra Times
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