Nebraska is poised to become the first state to sanction Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) competitions on ice, among other combat disciplines.
State Senator Ben Hansen presented legislative bill 635 before the General Affairs committee on Monday, introducing a unique sporting concept that combines elements of hockey and MMA. “In essence, competitors will be in full hockey gear, with the exception of MMA gloves instead of hockey gloves,” Hansen explained during his briefing According to a for KLIN Radio.
The innovative format features 2-minute rounds with a 30-second overtime provision for draws. “The bout consists of 2-minute rounds, with a 30-second overtime in the case of a draw. In the case of a knockdown, a competitor will receive a 10 count to get themselves back up to a standing position. It’s very similar to boxing, except they’re wearing ice skates, and they’re dressed in hockey gear,” Hansen detailed.
The proposed legislation extends beyond ice-based competition, seeking to add professional bare-knuckle mixed martial arts, amateur kickboxing, muay thai, and slap fighting to Nebraska’s roster of sanctioned sports. If approved, these events would fall under the supervision of current State Athletic Commissioner Aaron Hendry.
Senator Hansen emphasized the economic benefits of expanding sanctioned combat sports in Nebraska. “The combat sporting events regulated by the Athletic Commission usually host thousands of people in the stands, with many more watching on pay per view,” he stated. “So far, these events have been held in Omaha, Lincoln, North Platte, Kearney, Scotts Bluff, South, Sioux City and other cities, profiting the economy and bringing revenue to both the state and local businesses.”
The pioneering legislation could potentially establish Nebraska as a trendsetter in combat sports regulation, opening new venues for athletic competition and entertainment across the state.
