So I found this interesting as I stumbled upon this in the Pennsylvania Code (while looking for into on gaming regulations). The PA State Athletic Commission still has a section on Pro Wrestling.
http://www.pacode.com/secure/data/05...chap31toc.html
I remember going to local WWF matches as a kid and the ring announcer saying specifically "This event is sanctioned by the PA State Athletic Commission" and announcing a doctor's name at ringside. Apparently that wasn't kayfabe BS and was actually required (maybe still is).
What I find interesting is that it states:
Quote:
Wrestlers may not deliberately cut or otherwise mutilate themselves.
Considering ECW most notably, and other bloodbath promotions, ran extensively in Philly and throughout PA, I wonder how long this has been in there, and whether or not they actually were/are "sanctioned" by the PSAC.
The code also seems to require a $10,000 bond per show. In this money-hungry state, I wonder if this is actually enforced. I can't imagine so, as some of the small shows I see advertised probably don't draw 100 people, and the promoter would most likely not be able to put up the cash in the first place.
I get that they'll look away for the small stuff, but ECW was so high profile I can't imagine some state bureaucrat didn't pay some attention. Wonder if they had to account for this somehow.
