The State of New York leads America in finance, theater, media, restaurants, nightlife and other endeavors. However, even with Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) being the world's fastest growing sport, New York is not even in the race. MMA is legal and regulated everywhere in North America, except for in the Empire State.

The economic impact of not legalizing MMA could cost the state up to $100 million dollars in business activity generated by the matches. Standing in the way of regulation is Sheldon "Shelly" Silver, speaker of the New York State Assembly since 1994. Bouncer Chronicles reports Silver is waiting to see a groundswell of support before he allows the bill to move forward.

For the fifth straight year the State Senate passed a bill to legalize MMA. Most experts think the bill would pass the assembly vote if it ever came to a vote. Last year Silver used public money to secretly settle a sexual harassment claim against Vito J Lopez.