Dozens of mixed martial arts events happen every year throughout the state.

But Wisconsin officials have little idea of what actually happens at the contests... that's about to change.

The combat sport of mixed martial arts is perhaps best known for UFC, or Ultimate Fighting Championship.

Supporters of the contests say the sport's growing in popularity.

"It's being conducted all across the state of Wisconsin and all across the country for that matter. We are the 43rd state to regulate and license MMA," state boxing commissioner Hector Colon says.

The Department of Regulation and Licensing is beginning to write its rules for Act 111, which takes effect September 1st.

The state held a town hall meeting to hear from promoters, referees, like Allen Wichgers, and others as it drafts the official rules.

"I'll tell ya, the biggest thing in this sport is safety and fairness for the fighters and bringing this into play .. is gonna be great because everybody's gonna have the same playing field," Wichgers says.

Colon says the state has little to no idea, at this point, what actually happens at these matches because they're currently unregulated.

He cites a couple of cases out of Iowa.

"There was an article I just read today where an amateur boxer who was 17-years-old was severely hurt. Another professional boxer with minimal experience was matched up with a much more experienced professional that person got severely hurt," Colon says.

Act 111 limits the number of contests by a promoter or club at a given place, requires various fees paid by promoters... and requires inspectors and licensed judges at matches, among other things.

UFC's representative says he expects to see an event here, which supporters say will bring revenue to the state as well.

"Between venues such as Resch center...Bradley center...even venues here in Madison ...I think ... someday definitely see UFC or in WEC in Wisconsin," Michael Mersch, with UFC, says.

Those at today's meeting largely appear to support the new law... but have concerns about matches currently scheduled for September and the department's ability to staff those events.

The first public hearing for the new rules could happen at the end of June.