A bill introduced Monday by Rep. Steve Hunter takes direct aim at an underage version of a sporting activity labeled as "human cockfighting" by Sen. John McCain.
HB 2518, which is co-sponsored by Rep. Bryan Stevenson, R-Webb City, would not allow participation in karate or full-contact ultimate fighting activities by anyone under the age of 18.
The impetus for the bill appears to come from the nationwide publicity given to activities of the Garage Boys Fight Crew in Joplin, which was profiled recently by ABC News:
Though most professionals admit it's a sport that requires years of training, kids as young as 6 can now be seen on YouTube punching, kicking and pummeling each other, mimicking their Ultimate Fighting Championship heroes. So far the children's version is only legal in Missouri.
Jennifer Swinehearts' sons, 10-year-old Hayden and 14-year-old Larry, are members of the controlled "Garage Boys Fight Crew" in Joplin, Mo. Even their 12-year-old sister, Shelby, is in on the action.
"It's wonderful. They build such good character and good friendships, and that's what you need to further yourself in life," said Swinehearts.
The children fight in small cages but are required to wear head gear and padding. The no-holds-barred fights without protection aren't allowed until they turn 18.
"I daydream during school of me being in the cage with everybody watching me on TV," said Larry Swinehearts Jr.
Experts say the pint-size version of the sport is growing because ultimate fighting is everywhere now, on cable television, pay-per-view, even on the big screen in the movie "Never Back Down."
The sport is undeniably dangerous for adult fighters facing brain damage, broken bones and even death. Doctors say they're now starting to see injuries in young fighters that can impact their growth.
3 comments:
Again one must ask....when will legislators deal with the REAL issues facing ALL Missourians??? What a productive legislative session they are having!!!
I am glad to see this legislation. What was shown on TV was child abuse at the approval of their stupid parents. It seems as male parents try to relieve their past through mighty might football, boxing and now this "human cockfighting" Anyone sponsoring such activity should be facing prison time. Where in hell do you find a decent parent in this country anymore.
Bit of a confusing message to kids too..."Don't fight on the playground — just when you're in the cage."
Boxing is different, but this is UFC stuff we're talking about and mirrors the way fights — be it bar or playground — actually go down. That's fine for adults, but kids? How are they supposed to know when to turn off the violence?
Post a Comment