Mich. Admin. Code R. 339.205a - Mixed martial arts cage; dimensions and construction

Rule 205a.

(1) A promoter shall ensure that a mixed martial arts cage meets all of the following requirements:

(a) The cage canvas must be no smaller than 18 by 18 feet and no larger than 32 by 32 feet.

(b) Two sides opposite of each other must have a designated color. One side must be blue; the opposite side must be red.

(c) The floor of the cage area must be padded with ensolite or another similar closed-cell foam, with at least a 1-inch layer of foam padding, with a top covering of canvas, duck, or similar material tightly stretched and laced to the platform of the cage. Material that tends to gather in lumps or ridges must not be used.

(d) The platform of the cage must not be more than 4 feet above the floor of the building and must have suitable steps for use by the contestants and officials.

(e) Cage posts must be made of metal, not more than 6 inches in diameter, extending from the floor of the building to 5 to 7 feet above the floor of the cage, and must be properly padded in a manner approved by the department.

(f) The fencing used to enclose the cage must be made of a material that will prevent a contestant from falling out or breaking through the cage onto the floor of the building or onto spectators.

(g) Any metal portion on the interior of the cage must be covered and padded in a manner approved by the department and must not be abrasive to the contestants.

(h) The cage must have a minimum of 1 entrance. The entrance must be padded or covered so that there is not exposed metal on the interior of the cage.

(i) There must not be any obstruction on any part of the cage surrounding the area in which the contestants are competing.

(j) Any metal parts used to enforce the cage wall must be positioned as to not interfere with the safety of the contestants.

(k) There must be an area of at least 4 feet between the cage and the first row of public seating that allows freedom of movement of contest officials and department personnel.

(2) The area immediately surrounding the cage is subject to the control of the department. Event security staff shall control access. The seating around the apron of the cage must not be sold. An area for credentialed media personnel may be allowed with the approval of the department.

(3) There must be adequate space provided in each contestant's corner for seconds to sit during a round.

(4) The department may request a promoter of a mixed martial arts event or contest to place at least 2 video screens that meet the approval of the department, which will allow patrons to view action inside the cage.

Notes

Mich. Admin. Code R. 339.205a

2009 AACS; 2016 AACS; 2019 AACS; 2023 MR 6, Eff. 3/21/2023