Rep. Bryan Stevenson, R-Webb City, told Associated Press that allowing children to participate in cage fighting "borders on child abuse."
Stevenson is a co-sponsor of a bill sponsored by Rep. Steve Hunter, R-Joplin, which would outlaw ultimate fighting for those under 18:
The sport is a blend of martial arts styles made popular by cable television's "Ultimate Fighting Championship." Republican state Reps. Bryan Stevenson of Webb City and Steve Hunter of Joplin introduced the measure Monday, days after an Associated Press report about the practice.
"I think it borders on child abuse. I just don't think it's appropriate behavior at all," said Stevenson, adding that he has never attended a youth fight but has seen video clips.
Now politicians will ban martial arts without any knowledge or research. I'm sure the video he saw was not a real missouri sanctioned fight or he would not feel the kids are at risk. Protecting child from a safe, mentally and physically challenging contest might as well be saying that they don't really care, they just want to say passed another law. (As if we didn't enough to keep us busy already)Why is everyone forgetting that MO already has this issue covered by the state athletics commission? We already have policies and laws about youth MMA. "Those who would trade freedom for security deserve neither." If you think kids are getting hurt, do your homework. If you think you don't agree with it, then be glad you still have a right to your own opinion and can parent your own kids they way you feel they ought to be as long as they are safe and loved, just like Missouri's young athletes who compete in a very elaborate yet graceful art/sport.
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