AUGUST 05, 2003 -  The Michigan Department of Consumer & Industry Services (CIS) Bureau of Commercial Services has issued a cease and desist order to Cheboygan County Fair Board and “Diamond in the Rough, Inc.” for promotion of boxing contests or matches without proof of adequate insurance. The cease and desist order was issued after the CIS Bureau of Commercial Services Athletic Board of Control, which regulates professional boxing in the state, learned of a Toughman Contest scheduled for August 7-8 at the Cheboygan County Fair.

The Bureau of Commercial Services sent correspondence to Cheboygan County Fair officials, indicating the state’s position on enforcement of Section 805a (1) of the Athletic Board of Control statute regarding elimination competitions and requested copies of the insurance policy held by the promoter. The State of Michigan requires boxing elimination competitions to provide unlimited medical and hospital expenses for injuries sustained by fighters.

The Bureau of Commercial Services sent an investigator to the fairgrounds when representatives failed to provide the documentation in a timely manner. CIS then received copies of the insurance policy in the name of the promoter’s corporation “Diamond in the Rough, Inc.” in the amount of $50,000.00 and the Cheboygan County Fair’s liability policy with $5,000 in medical coverage – totaling a maximum of $55,000 which fails to meet statutory requirement of unlimited medical expense. CIS Director David C. Hollister said it was determined that there was no other choice but to take legal action to block the Toughman Contest from taking place.

“We asked the Attorney General’s office to file an injunctive order in circuit court on our behalf because it’s imperative that we hold people accountable to the rules,” Hollister said.  “Injuries to participants in these type of contests or exhibitions are often costly and potentially life-threatening. We feel it is a priority that the Toughman and similar exhibitions protect competitors and their families by providing proper medical care and preventing financial hardship with adequate insurance protection in the event of injury.”

The Cheboygan County Fair Board and “Diamond in the Rough, Inc.” may request a hearing on the issues addressed in the cease and desist order within 30 days of the date of the order.  If the cease and desist order is violated, further proceedings to restrain or enjoin such violations may be pursued.

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