Senate rejects bill to exempt charity mixed‑martial-arts exhibitions from athletic commission rules

The Senate defeated House Bill 16, a bill that would have created an exemption for nonprofit, charity-focused exhibition fights (commonly called “Freedom Fight Night”) by a vote of 14–21.

Sponsor Senator Zito described an instance in Horseshoe Bend where a charity exhibition raised more than $24,000 for a veterans memorial but was later told by the State Athletic Commission that the event likely required sanctioning. The bill would have allowed small, nonprofit, charity events if organizers obtained physician clearance for participants, ensured weight-class restrictions, and maintained liability insurance.

Opponents, led by Senator Rudkey, argued the existing statutory exemptions for schools, colleges, military installations and sanctioned amateur events already presuppose organizational safeguards. Rudkey and others said extending an exemption to any nonprofit risks uneven safety standards, and questioned whether organizers always have the needed expertise (for refereeing, medical coverage, etc.).

After floor debate, the Senate voted the bill down 14 in favor and 21 opposed; the bill will be returned to the House. Several senators who initially voted aye later changed recorded votes to nay during the roll call. The sponsor said the change aims to allow adults to participate in charity exhibitions while requiring medical checks and insurance, but opponents said more consistent sanctioning and oversight were needed.