Former NBA center Shaquille O'Neal joins the MMA cause in New York

Shaquille O'Neal spoke out in favor of MMA in New York. Photo: YouTube/Reproduction

The fight for MMA to be legalized in the state of New York, in the United States, gained a literally strong ally this Tuesday (11). Former NBA center Shaquille O'Neal, 41, issued an official statement in which he appealed to New York politicians for the state to regulate the practice of the sport. Currently, New York is the only one of the 50 North American states that does not allow MMA events to be held.

In the text, Shaq, as he is known, reveals that he has been practicing MMA for 15 years and compares the popular interest in mixed martial arts with that he experienced for years in basketball. The former player for the Orlando Magic, Los Angeles Lakers, Miami Heat, among other major teams in the league, stated that he would love to see an event held at Madison Square Garden, New York's main sports complex.

Read the statement released by Shaquille O'Neal below:

“For over a decade, I have been training in MMA. I studied boxing, jiu-jitsu, muay Thai and wrestling. I have practiced martial arts and MMA for the last 15 years. I know how MMA helps with training the body and mind. I know that MMA training teaches respect and discipline. I've been to MMA events – UFC and other promotions, professional and amateur – and I know that this is a real sport, one that requires incredible athletic skill and has a fan base to rival with the crowds I saw at Lakers, Heat and (Boston) Celtics home games.
 
I went to a UFC event at the TD Garden in Boston, and I would like to attend one at the 'Mecca' – Madison Square Garden. As a businessman and sports enthusiast, I know the type of economic activity – UFC and other MMA events – can bring to communities. It would be awesome for New York and it would be even bigger for New York's underserved communities. New Yorkers love the Knicks and Nets, Yankees and Mets, Giants and Jets, and they also love MMA. It's time for New York to do the right thing.
 
The Legislative Assembly must allow voting on the bill to legalize MMA. The Senate supported it and now it's time for the Assembly to give New Yorkers a fair chance to be able to watch MMA in an arena in their hometown. I know the public loves the Rangers, but millions of New Yorkers also love MMA with the same passion they have for hockey.”

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