California commission backs amended Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act, 6‑0

The California State Athletic Commission voted unanimously Oct. 15 to adopt a position of support, if amended, for H.R. 4624, the Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act, contingent on adding a state mechanism to adjust minimum purses and minimum insurance requirements for inflation.

Commissioner Grewell moved the motion on behalf of the subcommittee that reviewed stakeholder input; the motion, which asked the commission to "adopt a position of support if amended on H.R. 4624 ... contingent upon inclusion of a mechanism for a state level cost of living adjustment to both the minimum purse and the minimum insurance requirements," was seconded and passed 6‑0. Commissioners recorded their votes on the record as: Hendrickson — aye; Fiore — aye; Dr. DeMars — aye; Grewell — aye; Dr. Williams — aye; Chairman Peter Villegas — aye.

Why it mattered: commissioners and the subcommittee emphasized measures they said would raise the baseline protections for fighters nationwide while preserving choice for individual athletes. "Options are always good options," said John McCarthy, a longtime participant in professional combat sports, during public comment. Subcommittee members reported broad agreement…