California MMA fighters can now receive a retirement benefit if they meet certain requirements, thanks to a bill signed into law by Gov. Gavin Newsom, which mirrors a pension fund established in 1982 for professional boxers in California.
California MMA fighters now have the opportunity to receive a retirement benefit, as the recently signed Bill AB 1136 by Gov. Gavin Newsom establishes a pension fund for them. The bill, drafted by assemblyman Matt Haney, emulates a pension fund for professional boxers that has been in place since 1982 and is funded by a tax on ticket sales. This retirement benefit allows fighters to cash out once they have scheduled the required number of rounds in the state.
The California State Athletic Commission (CSAC) expressed its gratitude to Governor Newsom, Assembly Member Haney, and the Legislature for making the MMA benefit fund a reality. CSAC Chair Peter Villegas emphasized the dedication and sacrifice MMA fighters make in their careers, enduring grueling training and entertaining fans. The retirement benefit acknowledges their achievements and ensures they have financial support in their later years.
To be eligible for the retirement benefit, MMA fighters must schedule at least 39 rounds in bouts sanctioned by CSAC and reach 50 rounds for cashing out, with some exceptions. Boxers, on the other hand, need to schedule 75 rounds in the state. However, the benefit does not apply retroactively to fighters who have already met the round requirements.
The commission and CSAC are working to establish alternative revenue streams to fund the retirement benefit. One proposed method is selling specialty California license plates with CSAC branding, with $40 from each plate sold contributing to the pension fund. Initially, the retirement benefit will be funded by a $1 tax per ticket sold at CSAC-regulated events, as well as through concessions and personal contributions. Importantly, funding for the benefit will not come from the state’s general fund.
CSAC Executive Director Andy Foster expressed his enthusiasm for this achievement and emphasized that there is still work to be done. The retirement benefit has gained support from notable figures in the MMA community, including former UFC bantamweight champion Ronda Rousey and her one-time opponent Cat Zingano. Zingano believes that creating a safety net for retired MMA fighters is essential in advancing the sport and treating fighters as professional athletes. Haney has also suggested that the UFC and Bellator, prominent MMA promoters in the state, contribute to the benefit independently of holding events.
Overall, the passing of Bill AB 1136 marks a significant milestone for California MMA fighters, providing them with a retirement benefit that recognizes their contributions to the sport and offers financial support in their later years.