State Serves Cease & Desist Order Against Champion Cage Fighters and Unlicensed Boxing Promoter to End Cage, Ultimate Fighting, & Similar Unsanctioned Events

Contact: Lori Donlan 517-373-9280

Agency: Licensing and Regulatory Affairs

JUNE 22, 2007 - The Department of Labor & Economic Growth (DLEG) Bureau of Commercial Services, in consultation with the Michigan Boxing Commission and the Department of Attorney General, served a Cease and Desist Order against Champion Cage Fighters, and unlicensed boxing promoter Neil Helmkay to block future cage, ultimate fighting, and other similar events.

"We filed a Cease & Desist order because the cage combats or other similarly named events were being held at various venues across the state in direct violation of Michigan law," said DLEG Director Keith W. Cooley. "One such event was scheduled to be held this evening in Auburn Hills. The potential injuries to participants in these types of contests or exhibitions are often costly and potentially life-threatening."

The Bureau's Enforcement Division Director and the Michigan Boxing Commission determined the scheduling and promotion of the event was in violation of the Michigan Boxing Regulatory Act, 2004 PA 403. These types of events also do not appear to conform to requirements for an exemption under the Public Act.

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