Indiana Enacts HB 1073: New Regulations for Martial Arts and Combat Sports

Indiana has taken a significant step in regulating combat sports with the enactment of House Bill 1073, signed into law on April 30, 2025. This legislation mandates the Indiana Gaming Commission to establish rules governing various combat sports, including mixed martial arts (MMA), traditional martial arts, boxing, professional wrestling, bare-knuckle fighting, and sparring. The law is set to take effect on July 1.

Key Provisions of HB 1073

Previously, the Indiana Gaming Commission had the discretion to regulate combat sports. HB 1073 changes this by requiring the Commission to adopt rules under IC 4-22-2 for the conduct of the following:

• Mixed martial arts

• Martial arts disciplines such as jujutsu, karate, kickboxing, kung fu, tae kwon do, judo, sambo, pankration, and shootwrestling

• Professional wrestling

• Boxing and bare-knuckle fighting

• Sparring

A significant aspect of the bill is the incorporation of the most recent version of the unified rules adopted by the Association of Boxing Commissions and Combative Sports. These unified rules are now part of Indiana law and have the same force and effect as though fully set forth in the chapter. However, if there is a conflict between the unified rules and state law, the state law will prevail.

Implications for Indiana's Combat Sports Community

The enactment of HB 1073 is expected to have several implications:

• Standardization: By adopting the unified rules, Indiana aims to standardize the conduct of combat sports, ensuring consistency with national practices

• Safety: Mandatory regulations are anticipated to enhance the safety of participants by enforcing established safety protocols.

• Economic Impact: The law could attract larger events to Indiana, potentially boosting local economies and elevating the state's profile in the combat sports arena.

HB 1073 marks a pivotal moment for combat sports in Indiana, transitioning from optional to mandatory regulation. As the law takes effect on July 1, 2025, the Indiana Gaming Commission will begin the process of implementing the required rules, shaping the future landscape of martial arts and combat sports in the state.

The Bill