In what was truly a historic day, the nearly 20-year ban on mixed martial arts (MMA) in New York was lifted, as the New York State Assembly overwhelmingly voted to legalize the sport in "The Empire State."
Now, Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) -- as well as other promotions -- can start making plans to stage events in one of the biggest sports markets in the world.
On the heels of the monumental news, UFC CEO Lorenzo Fertitta issued a statement applauding the New York State Assembly, as well as many other supporters, for helping bring MMA back to New York.