In his letter to Rep. Ramon A. Tebuteb, R-Saipan and chairman of the island’s legislative delegation, Taisakan said mixed martial arts, if managed under rules authorized by law, may be developed successfully and help improve the local economy.
Taisakan said he recognizes the benefits of House Local Bill 16-26 but he added that it should ensure that all participants should be justly compensated, insured and be given protection.
The mayor also suggests “just and fair” compensation for the promoters, ring officials and any person directly or indirectly involved in the sport.
The bill, he said, should have a rate or ratio payment formula for the various positions related to the competition.
Taisakan said the bill does not provide for the salary of the executive director of the proposed Saipan Local Athletic Commission.
He also wants the bill to clearly state the qualifications of the commission members.
Rep. Stanely T. Torres, R-Saipan, is the bill’s author.
Mixed martial arts fight is now a popular sport among the CNMI’s young adults.
Besides Trench Tech PureBred Saipan Inc. headed by Cuki Alvarez, five other organizations also train local fighters that compete every two months.
