MMA Star Ronda Rousey Joins Lobbying Effort In Albany [UPDATE]

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — Lobbyists trying to make New York legalize mixed martial arts have brought their serious celebrity muscle in women's bantamweight champion Ronda Rousey, who's in Albany between appearances on network television in Manhattan.

The Olympic bronze medalist in judo, a relative unknown who called on lawmakers three years ago in a failed attempt at legalization, is now a model, actress and 11-0, and meeting with Gov. Andrew Cuomo.

The Republican-controlled Senate is expected to vote again this week to authorize the New York State Athletic Commission to regulate the professional sport, which is currently allowed in every other state.

The Democrat-controlled Assembly remains the challenge.

The ascent of Speaker Carl Heastie, former sponsor of the bill, to the leadership post appears to have improved its prospects.

UPDATE: The State Senate has passed a bill legalizing MMA in New York by a vote of 47-14.