Commission warns promoters over glove and weigh-in practices, directs staff review

The Tennessee Athletic Commission on June 8 approved a letter of warning to a promoter after two separate complaints raised concerns about fighters using personally supplied gloves and irregular weigh-in practices.

Legal counsel Jesse Gentry told commissioners that in one case a promoter allowed fighters to bring their own gloves and that inspectors and a referee had signed off on the gloves. "Under the ABC unified rules, it does state that gloves should be provided by the promoter and be at least 4 ounces," Gentry said, recommending a letter of instruction. Commissioners instead voted to issue a letter of warning that said future violations could carry stiffer discipline.

Commissioners also discussed a complaint that alleged an opponent weighed 0.4 pounds over the contracted amount and that a fighter was allowed to weigh in with underwear on. Counsel and commissioners noted that referee and inspector practice—and whether inspectors put gloves or gear on a scale—merits staff review. The commission voted to close the complaint but asked staff to consult inspectors about scale/weigh-in and glove-check procedures.

What the commission directed: staff were asked to (1) send the letter of warning to the promoter, (2) consult commission inspectors about weigh-in protocols (including handling of clothing and weighing procedures), and (3) report back on whether routine glove weight checks should be implemented before events.

The commission’s actions were taken by roll-call vote; commissioners present were Ricky Goodrich, Ben Grove and Corey Sapola. The meeting adjourned at roughly 3:00 p.m.