HB457 Summary

• Renames the Alabama Boxing Commission to the Alabama Athletic Commission and expands its regulatory authority to include mixed martial arts alongside professional boxing.

• Defines "mixed martial arts" as unarmed combat using combinations of techniques including grappling, submission holds, throws, and striking with hands, feet, knees, or elbows, explicitly including kickboxing.

• Requires the commission to regulate mixed martial arts competitions with the same standards and oversight as professional boxing, including licensing of promoters, participants, and officials, and medical safety requirements.

• Establishes licensing fees for promoters ($250 annually), match permits ($250), and participant licenses ($250 annually), with authority to charge additional match fees and performance bonds.

• Increases criminal penalties for violations, including Class C felonies for managers/promoters/matchmakers who knowingly violate regulations, and up to $25,000 civil fines plus 15% of purse for competitors competing under the influence of alcohol or drugs.