Maryland Makes Moves To Restart Professional Combat Sports!

The Maryland State Athletic Commission seems to be preparing to sanction professional combat sports events again later this year.

In a recent release, The Maryland Commission says that, as of July 1st, spectators can attend Commission-sanctioned events (including Boxing, Professional Wrestling, Mixed Martial Arts and Kickboxing) at 100 percent capacity at an indoor or outdoor venue.  No masks are necessary.

Licensed contestants, licensed wrestlers, licensed referees, licensed judges, licensed managers, licensed matchmakers, licensed promoters and licensed seconds as well as promoter representatives and Commission representatives who have been fully vaccinated will not be required to undergo COVID19 testing prior to an event.  Proof of vaccination must be shown to the commission.  If proof is not shown, then a COVID-19 test must be performed on the day before, or the day of, the event.  Individuals who do not show proof of vaccination must wear a mask at the hotel where they are staying and at the venue.

Maryland is the first in the Beltway area to announce their plans for restarting boxing.  No word yet on DC or Virginia.  Virginia may be in flux because of the recent passing of Commission member Tracy Fagan. Reports are that Commission chair David Holland is on administrative leave.