N.Y. State Assembly to vote on legalizing MMA

The New York State Assembly has agreed to vote on a bill that could finally legalize professional mixed martial arts in the state, according to multiple reports.

In the seven years the bill has managed to make it through the State Senate, this will be the first time it reaches an Assembly vote.

UFC president Dana White tweeted a cryptic message on Tuesday, presumably regarding the news:

The UFC also issued a statement expressing its gratitude to Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie and Majority Leader Joseph D. Morelle. The statement included a reminder to fans and media that a successful vote is still only part of the legalization process:

This is a big step forward for MMA, the athletes and the huge fan base the sport enjoys in New York, however, there are still more steps before New York finally crosses the hurdle to legalize professional MMA. We look forward to working with the chairs of the committees and all Assembly members to provide them with any information they may need as they address the bill to legalize and regulate MMA.

Madison Square Garden has long been a target of the UFC and the organization currently has a November date reserved at the historic arena.