That’s according to District of Columbia Combat Sports Commission, Andrew Huff, who claims that the UFC has opted against going through the official channels because the event is being hosted on federal land. If the event remains unsanctioned, Huff warns that the bout outcomes would not be recognized on the athletes’ official records.
“We don’t know anything,” Huff told the Washington Post (h/t Sherdog). “Every promoter in the District of Columbia should be, and is, held to the same standard, whether you’re putting on a small wrestling show or a major event. I’m concerned about precedent. What happens when someone puts on a boxing match in Malcolm X Park? They don’t need to get us involved?”
Tachi Palace is on an Indian reservation belonging to the Tachi-Yokut Tribe, part of the federally-recognized Santa Rosa Indian Community. Subsequently, the resort has its own commission and doesn’t necessarily have to abide by the rules and regulations set forth by California State Athletic Commission (CSAC). There are countless UFC fighters who have competed on Native American reservations like Tachi Palace, and their wins and losses from those days are still considered legitimate.
Permit or not, it sure looks like the UFC White House card is happening, wins will be recorded, and titles awarded. Still, it is interesting that the UFC has opted to bypass District of Columbia Combat Sports Commission when official channels to holding a fight card in Washington D.C. do exist.
