BraggingRightsCorner.com has learned that matchmaker Joe Bermudez was issued a one-year
administrative suspension by the Ohio Athletic Commission, a
successor to the State Boxing Commission. The Commission regulates boxing,
mixed martial arts, wrestling, kick boxing, karate, tough
person contests and Athlete Agents within the State of Ohio in
an effort to protect the safety of the participants and the
interests of the public.
Executive Commissioner
Bernie Profato stated that Mr. Bermudez submitted a
false medical document to the Commission. His suspension will
run from May 1, 2008 to May 1, 2009.
Mr. Bermudez has 30 days in
which to appeal this decision, which has been duly reported to
the Association of Boxing Commissions and to boxing's official
record keeper, Fight Fax.
Ohio's Athletic Commission
has strict medical requirements for boxers hired to fight in
that state. Although some tests from other
states are accepted, within certain time frames, (i.e., a normal CAT scan with
contrast from another state will be accepted within 3 years),
the Commission also requires Hepatitis B and C blood
test, HIV blood test, and
an ophthalmological eye exam.
Commissioner Profato
emphasized the state's commitment to the safety of the boxers
and the integrity of the sports they regulate.
