State of New Jersey MMA: Growing Strong

New Jersey has always been a pioneer of MMA, blazing the way for the sport to become as mainstream as it has.  Nick Lembo, counsel to the NJSACB, is one of the people most responsible for the growth of MMA in the United States.  Nick helped unify the rules and he runs a tight ship in New Jersey where MMA flourishes.  Not only does the state host the biggest promotions (the UFC is coming to Newark on March 27), he presides over local shows that are a springboard to the big leagues for many local fighters, including the Miller brothers, Mike Massenzio, Frankie Edgar, Jay Silva and many more.  Lou Neglia's Ring of Combat promotion was the home of many UFC stars, including Matt Serra, Pete Sell and a host of others.

In 2009, there were a total of 45 official MMA shows in NJ, with 125 pro bouts and 346 amatuer bouts.  Nick Lembo was at nearly every one and I had the pleasure and honor of attending many of these myself.

So congrats and thank you to Nick Lembo and the state of NJ for continuing to be on the forefront of Mixed Martial Arts and giving local fighters the opportunity to excel at the sport they love.