Prize fighting could soon become legal in Prince Edward Island (P.E.I.) as the province considers allowing combat sport competitions. Currently, P.E.I.’s criminal code prohibits prize fighting, which involves individuals engaging in hand-to-hand or foot-to-foot combat. However, the government is inviting public feedback on a new legislation proposal to regulate both professional and amateur boxing, kickboxing, and mixed martial arts (MMA).
Neighboring provinces like Nova Scotia and New Brunswick already permit tournaments in these sports. Matt MacGrath, the owner of Renzeo Gracie Gym in Charlottetown, believes that this change is long overdue for P.E.I. He emphasized the inconvenience faced by amateur and pro fighters from the island who have to travel to other provinces to compete, expressing the desire for them to showcase their skills in front of their families without the need for extensive travel.
MacGrath also highlighted the potential economic benefits that prize fighting could bring to the province, including increased revenue for hotels, restaurants, and nightlife establishments. Zack Bell, P.E.I.’s minister of fisheries, tourism, sport, and culture, echoed the sentiment that the proposed legislation is overdue, recognizing the popularity growth of sports like MMA worldwide.
The proposed legislation aims to ensure participant safety, provide proper oversight of event organizers and governing bodies, and align with industry best practices observed in other provinces. Bell emphasized the importance of safety in sports competition and acknowledged the potential for attracting more tourists through combat sport events.
While some may view MMA and other combat sports as barbaric, MacGrath emphasized that these activities are sports that require training and preparation. He emphasized that referees play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of fighters during matches. The hope is that Islanders will come to see these sports as legitimate athletic pursuits rather than violent spectacles.
