MMA legalization smacked in poll

Thumbnail image for ufc.jpgA Marist poll out late last week reports that 68 percent of the registered voters it surveyed were against legalizing ultimate fighting in New York State. Twenty-nine percent were in favor.

That split held more-or-less true across the political ideology, geographic region and income (Republicans and upstaters favored legalization a little bit more). The split was more even when sorted by age: 50/50 for 18-29 and 54/43 against for 30-44.

David Paterson's proposed budget includes a measure that would legalize ultimate fighting (or mixed martial arts, as it's also known) -- though the plan projects the revenue generated to be modest.

Here's the wording of the Marist poll question, which describes the sport. Kevin Marshall, an MMA fan, says the question was "a wildly misleading choice of words."

By the way: A promoter of the cage fight at Washington Ave Armory Friday night said the event was a step toward ultimate fighting. The fight had originally been scheduled for the SEFCU Arena -- but UAlbany canceled after there were concerns it was an illegal MMA event. [Daily Gazette $] [@albstudentpress]

photo: Flickr user Lee Brimelow

Comments

If you've ever met or been around any of these idiots you would know within 5 seconds that this should never be allowed in NY State. Leave it for Vegas and the circus. When I drove by the Armory that night there were 5 cop cars outside and 4 guys in handcuffs walking out.

educated favor it over non-educated. non partisans and moderates favor it over any party R's or D's. the biggest disparity? men over women (45 -13).

do you want to outlaw the NFL, Boxing as too violent? how about outlawing 'gentlemen clubs' and the degradation of women before we outlaw a martial sport.

the people's republic of new york strains gnats again.

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