Compilation of Rules and Regulations of the State of Georgia Department 85 - RULES OF GEORGIA ATHLETIC & ENTERTAINMENT COMMISSION
1. Overview of the Georgia Athletic and Entertainment Commission (GAEC)
The Georgia Athletic and Entertainment Commission is a state regulatory body that oversees professional sports and entertainment activities in Georgia. Its main purpose is to ensure safety, fairness, and integrity in sports and entertainment events. The commission operates under Department 85 in the official state rules and regulations.
It covers areas like:
Professional boxing, mixed martial arts (MMA), and wrestling
Combat sports licenses (athletes, promoters, referees, trainers, and officials)
Event safety and medical requirements
Rules of competition and conduct
2. Structure of Department 85 – GAEC Rules
The rules are organized into sections (or “chapters”) covering all areas the commission oversees. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
A. Licensing Requirements
The GAEC requires all participants in regulated events to be licensed. This includes:
Athletes/Competitors
Must submit medical examinations.
Provide proof of age and identity.
Sign agreements acknowledging rules and risks.
Promoters
Must register events with GAEC.
Post financial guarantees to ensure fighters and staff are paid.
Ensure compliance with venue safety rules.
Officials (Referees, Judges, Matchmakers)
Must be certified by the commission.
Must maintain impartiality and avoid conflicts of interest.
Trainers and Cornermen
Must be licensed.
Required to follow safety rules and assist in medical emergencies.
B. Event Regulations
The commission sets rules for the conduct of events, including:
Event Approval
Promoters must submit event details (venue, fight cards, ticket sales).
GAEC must approve before the event occurs.
Ring/Octagon Safety
The fighting area must meet safety standards.
Medical equipment and trained personnel must be present.
Medical Requirements
Competitors must pass pre-fight and post-fight medical checks.
Any serious injury leads to suspension or additional medical clearance.
Weight Classes and Weigh-Ins
Fighters must compete in the proper weight division.
Official weigh-ins are supervised by GAEC representatives.
C. Rules of Competition
Combat Rules
Specific techniques allowed and disallowed in each sport.
Time limits and round structures.
Criteria for victories: knockout, technical knockout, decision, or disqualification.
Conduct of Competitors
Unsportsmanlike conduct can result in fines or suspensions.
Cheating or using banned substances is strictly prohibited.
Officials’ Authority
Referees have the final say in the ring or cage.
Judges score matches fairly based on defined criteria.
D. Safety and Medical Oversight
Mandatory Ringside Physicians
Must be present for all regulated fights.
Can stop fights if a competitor is at risk.
Drug and Doping Rules
Random drug testing may be conducted.
Positive results lead to suspensions, fines, or revocation of licenses.
Post-Fight Reporting
Promoters must report fight outcomes, injuries, and medical clearances to the commission.
E. Disciplinary Actions
The GAEC has the authority to discipline licensees for violations:
Fines – Monetary penalties for breaking rules.
Suspensions – Temporary removal from participation.
License Revocation – Permanent loss of the right to compete or promote.
Appeals Process – Licensees may appeal decisions within a certain time frame.
F. Administrative Procedures
Filing Complaints – Individuals can file complaints against licensees or promoters.
Hearing Process – GAEC conducts hearings for disputes or rule violations.
Record Keeping – All licenses, event approvals, and medical records are maintained by GAEC.
3. Purpose and Importance
The main goals of Department 85 and GAEC rules are to:
Protect athlete health and safety
Ensure fair competition
Maintain public trust in sports and entertainment events
Provide legal clarity for promoters, officials, and participants
Avoid fraud or exploitation in combat sports
Summary Table of Key Responsibilities
| Area | Responsibility |
|---|---|
| Licensing | Athletes, promoters, officials, trainers |
| Event Approval | Safety standards, venue inspections, fight card approval |
| Competition Rules | Allowed techniques, rounds, scoring criteria |
| Medical Oversight | Pre/post-fight exams, ringside physicians, drug testing |
| Disciplinary Action | Fines, suspensions, license revocation |
| Record Keeping | Licenses, medical reports, event reports |
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