ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) Mixed martial arts appears to have escaped the chokehold that kept the professional version of its cage fights outlawed in New York.
The state Assembly, where the legislation has stalled while the Senate approved it for seven years, plans to vote on the bill next week.
Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, a Bronx Democrat, says there are votes to pass it.
New York is the only state that still prohibits professional matches, though fighters train at many gyms around the state and amateur cards are held.
The legislation would put MMA under the control of the State Athletic Commission, which regulates professional boxing.
Recently added provisions would increase required insurance for injured fighters and authorize studying a funding mechanism for long-term care of fighters who develop degenerative brain conditions.
