Due to a recent Quebec Boxing Commission decision, the fate of UFC 97 is in question. The UFC event is currently scheduled to take place in Quebec on April 18th at the Ball Centre. Even though it is more than two months away, UFC 97 has already sold more than 12,000 tickets.

The Quebec Boxing Commission decision was in regards to certain strikes that they are trying to outlaw. For example, it is believed that they are trying to prohibit the use of knee or elbow strikes. Additionally, referees would be required to deliver a standing count following a knock down to ensure that the fighter is well enough to continue.

Since these restrictions and rule changes go against the rules spelled out by UFC, the UFC and the Quebec Boxing Commission will have to agree on a compromise. Otherwise, the event will likely be cancelled. It is not known how or even if the tickets will be refunded.

What makes all of this odd is the fact that this would be UFC’s second trip to the Canadian city. They previously visited Montreal and the event went off without a hitch. But after increased scrutiny as of late, the Quebec Boxing Commission has decided to take a closer look at mixed martial arts.

If UFC 97 does take place in Montreal, the Montreal fans would see a great even filled with fantastic matchups. The main event has Anderson Silva going up against Thales Leites. Another very interesting fight has Chuck Liddell going up against Mauricio Rua. In the heavyweight bout on the main card, Cheick Kongo will fight Antoni Hardonk. The two light heavyweight fights have Luiz Cane fighting Steve Cantwell and Brian Stann going up against Krzysztof Soszynski.

Although this event is certainly in jeopardy, sources with knowledge from UFC officials indicate that UFC will do everything in their power to make this event a reality.

Tags: Mixed Martial Arts, MMA, UFC, ufc 97, ultimate fighting championship
Posted in Sports |