Connecticut considers legalizing mixed martial arts

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — A legislative committee is considering a bill that would legalize mixed martial arts matches in Connecticut, popular events that often draw thousands of fans.

The General Assembly's Public Safety Committee has scheduled a public hearing Tuesday to discuss the legislation. The panel approved a similar bill last year, but it later died in another committee.

Mixed martial arts draws from different forms of fighting, such as jiu-jitsu, judo, karate, boxing and kickboxing.

Matches can currently be held at the state's two casinos because they're owned by sovereign Indian tribes. But the matches cannot be held off the reservations, such as at the XL Center in Hartford and Webster Bank Arena at Harbor Yard in Bridgeport.

Advocates say the matches will help generate revenues for local hotels, restaurants and parking.