ANTONELLA ARTUSO, QMI Agency

TORONTO -- Premier Dalton McGuinty has dealt a stunning blow in the Ultimate Fighting Championship's battle to come to Ontario.

"It's just not a priority for us," McGuinty said Wednesday. "We have other things on the go right now and we'll stay focused on those."

The premier's comments indicate that despite the incredible popularity of mixed martial arts in this province, Ontarians will have to continue to travel to Quebec or elsewhere if they want to see a live match.

The federal Criminal Code prohibits prizefighting but individual provinces can choose to exempt sports such as boxing and mixed martial arts.

According to a consumer services ministry spokesperson, Ontario would need to be convinced the UFC is safe for the public and participants before it would make amendments to the Athletics Control Act.

What's your take on this latest development? Have your say in our forum.

McGuinty bodyslams UFC

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35 Comments

What is wrong with our government, what a bunch of wimps. I'm sick of what they think we ought to be doing with our money. Its obvious he doesn't have a clue about ufc.
andy, 2010-02-17 14:00:56

For once Ontario is 10+ yrs behind the times on this one. I live in Nova Scotia and have attend numerous local MMA events which inject $$$ into the local economy. I don't understand the reasoning why the Ontario government is so apposed to it. Being able to host UFC events would bring in large amounts cash to local merchants/community not to mention the taxes collected in the process. When I moved to NS from Ont it was like stepping back 20 yrs. Not in this case. These events are hugely entertaining and safe for the most part. I guess Quebec will benifit the most from this in the end.
PRICE, 2010-02-17 13:58:25

Moron! I'm sure Quebec loves this decision. Dana should bring a fight to Buffalo or Detroit with lots of marketing to Ontario so that McQuinty sees the money flowing out the door.
Janney, 2010-02-17 13:48:18

Does this idiot realize how much revenue he just pissed away from the province? He is taxing us to death and turning away events that would inject a lot of money in Ontario.

I can't wait to vote this @$$ out of office.
Jon, 2010-02-17 12:24:21

Again McGuinty shuts the door on $$$ coming into Ontario. This guy is an idiot!! One of the fastest growing "sports" in North America right now and he do not seem to be interested in the money this sport will bring to our province.....
Snakey, 2010-02-17 11:57:36

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