Senate backs ban on 'ultimate fighting,' rejects amendment to broaden boxing regulation

The Utah Senate considered SB 43 on Feb. 7, a bill that would prohibit "ultimate fighting" — a form of contest described by the sponsor as placing combatants in a cage until one cannot continue.

Senator Poulter, sponsor of SB 43, characterized the activity as excessively violent and not a legitimate sport, telling colleagues that injuries, broken limbs and reported deaths have occurred in such contests. "This is an activity that we don't want going on in this state," the sponsor said on the floor, arguing the contests promote unhealthy attitudes and dangerous crowds.

An amendment offered by the state boxing commission sought to allow the commission to regulate "tough man" contests (amateur bouts with one-minute rounds and other specified safeguards) separately from professional boxing. The Senate debated the distinction between regulated boxing and unsanctioned contests; some senators worried the amendment would reintroduce a category the earlier legislation had expressly excluded. After discussion the amendment failed on a voice vote.

Following debate, the bill was placed for a roll-call third reading. The floor announcement reported passage with a recorded tally that included two nay votes and three absentees; the clerk and presiding officer will complete formal enrollment and transmittal steps as required.

The deliberations centered on distinguishing regulated boxing and closely supervised amateur contests from events that intentionally inflict severe injury. The sponsor and supporters emphasized public safety and community standards; opponents warned about unintended regulatory gaps and the difficulties in precisely defining prohibited conduct.

The bill will proceed through the legislative process to enrollment and potential action by the House.