Binghamton Could Host A Future UFC Bout

The head of Ultimate Fighting Championship doesn't rule out the possibility that Binghamton could be the site of an event -- if New York state legalizes professonal mixed martial arts fights.

Lorenzo Fertitta says several UFC events would be scheduled in New York if legislation to permit MMA bouts is approved.

Speaking on WNBF Radio's Binghamton Now program, Fertitta said the UFC schedules events in venues of all sizes, so smaller venues could be the site of a future fight.

Fertitta and MMA supporters have been lobbying state lawmakers for several years to clear the way for professional bouts. Although the Senate has repeatedly given its OK, the Assembly has not voted on MMA legislation.

Fertitta said he believes the Assembly would approve a bill this session, if Speaker Sheldon Silver would allow a vote.

Silver has not permitted a floor vote. Fertitta said that's because of the opposition of a union involved in a dispute with one of his family's businesses in Las Vegas.

Fertitta said mixed martial arts fighting would help create jobs and generate revenue that could boost New York state's economy.

The UFC has gained popularity in upstate New York over the past couple of years with the success of Union-Endicott High School graduate Jon Jones. He successfully defended his light heavyweight title in a bout late last month.