Cuomo 'interested' in economics of MMA

Gov. Andrew Cuomo says he's more concerned with the economic impacts of mixed martial arts than he is about the violent nature of the sport.

In Rochester on Wednesday, Cuomo was asked about the state's ban on professional mixed martial arts, which he noted was the only statewide ban in the nation. Cuomo didn't express outright support for overturning it, but said he's "interested" if MMA can provide an economic boost.

"This is a big sport and it’s growing, and if it can create jobs and economic growth in the state of New York, then I’m interested in it," Cuomo said.

Cuomo's comments come as Ultimate Fighting Championship officials say they are "cautiously optimistic" in their chances to rescind the ban this year after the ouster of Assemblyman Sheldon Silver, D-Manhattan, as the chamber's leader. The measure has long-stalled in the Assembly, which is now led by Speaker Carl Heastie, D-Bronx, a personal supporter of MMA.

The governor's comments largely mirror what he's said in the past on the issue: That he can be supportive of the bill if it has a positive economic impact.

Cuomo said Wednesday he understands the concerns raised by some lawmakers and opponents of MMA that the fighting sport is too violent. But he's more interested in the financial aspects.

"I understand the point. I focus on that less," Cuomo said. "Football is a violent sport, rugby is a violent sport, some people say politics is a violent sport. So I get that point, but to me it’s more about the economics and whether or not we create jobs.”

(Photo: Annette Lein/Democrat and Chronicle)