Most US states (and some cities) have their own commissions. The Association of Boxing Commissions provides a contact list of most of the boxing commissions in North America (and beyond). [1] X Research source In states that don’t have a commission dedicated to combat sports, you’ll need to do your research on the state government’s website to find pertinent laws. Make sure to develop a complete understanding of laws in your area. Violating laws can leave you open to lawsuits and/or a revocation of your license.
While state boxing promoter license applications vary, many require that the promoter provide information about their business entity and complete names and contact information for the business itself and its board members or partners. [2] X Research source Promoters may be asked about their business’ financial history including recent bankruptcy filings and financial interest in any boxing contestants. A promoter’s license application may also request information about the promoter’s involvement in any investigations regarding event promotions or if the promoter has any history of criminal convictions.
If your application is granted, you may be required to pay a substantially larger fee for the license. In Nevada, this fee is $500. [3] X Research source In Minnesota, it’s $700.
In some states, such as Nevada, you are required to attend a hearing by the commission on the day your application is discussed to answer any questions they may have that are not covered on the application. [4] X Research source
In choosing a venue consider it’s capacity. You don’t want to rent a place that’s too small and will not be able to fit everyone who wants to attend your event. On the other hand, a smaller venue can create the illusion of a packed house with a smaller crowd. You will need adequate space for a regulation sized boxing ring. The size depends on nature of the event (e. g. amateur v. professional, weight class, and so on). Amateur rings are typically 16 to 20 square feet, while professional ones are 18 to 24 square feet. [5] X Research source Your venue will also need to include dressing rooms for participants and medics, and ideally for officials as well. It will also need to include an area that the boxers can use to warm up.
The ring itself. At least four sets of regulation competition gloves. Boxers are typically not allowed to provide their own gloves. Protective headgear. Tables and chairs for judges. Stools and spit buckets for each corner. A bell, a timer, and weigh scales.
If you opt to hire a matchmaker, you can visit the BoxRec website to find a database listing licensed professionals. [7] X Research source If you are playing this role yourself, contact a boxing club such as Golden Gloves to learn about boxers in your area who would be a good match.
An insurance policy will be required to cover your liability in case someone is seriously hurt or killed during the match. Depending on the state, it is not unusual for for the law to require policies covering $10,000 in both medical expenses and life insurance. A surety bond is a bond you purchase to ensure that any payment you are required to make to the state (in the form of taxes) will be covered in the event that you default on your payment or violate state regulations. These bonds may be $10,000 or more, depending on the state. [8] X Research source
These permits will vary from state to state, but will typically require you to provide information about the date, time, and location of the event, details about the boxers (sometimes including weigh-ins and medical history), information about yourself and your business, details about your insurance, bonds, and safety equipment on the premises, and so on.
Ringside physician (the association of ringside physicians can help you get in contact with someone)[9] X Research source DJ/MC/Announcer Security Referee Judges Note that is common for boxing commissions to require that judges and referees be certified or examined by the commission.
Social media Flyers and posters Contacting local media for coverage or advertising
Ensure that the ring has been constructed and complies with regulations. It may be inspected by boxing commission representatives. Make sure all necessary equipment is where it should be. Make sure seating is adequate for the number of tickets sold and doesn’t exceed the legal capacity of the venue Station ambulance crews in an area where they will be able to quickly access the ring if necessary, but won’t be in the way
Make sure the fighters and referees know when to show up for this meeting.
In Minnesota, for example, any delay in start time must be approved by an Office of Combative Sports representative. Otherwise, the event is automatically in violation of regulations.
Pay taxes as necessary. Depending on the state you live in, it is typical for promoters to be required to pay a certain percentage of money from ticket sales in taxes. In some states, if profits exceed a specific amount, additional taxes may be levied.
