As the overwhelming majority of states now recognize MMA competitions as a legitimate sport and subsequently have legalized professional contest within their borders,  NY Assemblyman Bob Reilly continues to spear head its opposition in NY state.

Assemblyman Reilly states that his case against 'ultimate fighting' centers on 3 main reasons:

1. Ultimate fighting is a form of violence that harms the participants and has a negative effect on children, adults and our society as a whole.

2. Ultimate fighting would have a negative effect on the economics of New York state and local municipalities.

3. The majority of New Yorkers do not want ultimate fighting legalized in New York State.

Is this really a morality issue?  A MMA contest at Madison Square Garden is likely to destroy the moral fiber of Manhattan?  Really?!?

For a state that is looking at an enormous budget shortfall how could any revenue generated by a sporting event be a bad thing? It's found money!!

Mr. Reilly commissioned a poll that talked to less than 3,000 people (none of whom were from NYC) and with this scientific study has determined that the majority of citizens in NY state are overwhelmingly against the legalization of MMA...seems like a reach to me.

MMA may offend Assemblyman Reilly's constituents but the folks that live in the 5 boroughs (and surrounding areas) and frequent MSG sporting events...maybe not so much.