Saskatchewan to sanction professional MMA, boxing fights

Get ready to put up your dukes because the provincial government is getting into the fighting ring.

It is establishing the Athletics Commission of Saskatchewan, a body that will sanction professional combative sporting events in the province.

"This commission will ensure that we have a consistent set of rules, regulations and safety protocols for participants and officials across the province," Parks, Culture and Sport Minister Mark Docherty said.

Once the commission is fully operational, it will have the ability to sanction professional mixed martial arts and boxing events.

Dennis Page, a trainer at Saskatoon's Top Dog Boxing Club, said a commission is long overdue.

"A lot of times guys would have to go outside of the country in order to do their profession," Page said. "So now we can actually stay at home and we can groom those guys at home for the broader stage."

The commission will be ready to accept applications for promoter and contestant licences, as well as event permits, in early April.

Page said the fee structure will determine the type of boxing event he'll be able to put on.

"Is this commission going to be a commission that's actually going to work with people in order to advance the sport in Saskatchewan?" Page said. "Or is it a commission that's only concerned about bringing the big events in?"  

Assistant Deputy Minister of Parks, Culture and Sport Scott Brown will be appointed chairperson of the commission.

An advisory committee made up of industry experts will be appointed to advise the chair on specific issues. Further details on commission operations, including the selection of advisers, will be finalized over the next month.