With the explosion in popularity of "mixed martial arts," (formerly called "extreme fighting") and an apparent lack of political will to ban the violent events, strong regulations are in order.

The Legislature last year failed to prohibit mixed martial arts — known for its bare-fisted and no-holds-barred brawling — but this year, at a minimum, lawmakers should pass a bill to establish greater regulatory control to protect both participants and the public.

Of the seven bills now before the Legislature, the most ideal is Senate Bill 1712, which expands the power of the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs enabling it to oversee mixed martial arts to a greater degree, from the licensing of promoters to the creation and enforcement of tougher regulations.

Among the regulations that should be considered are those outlined in a recent state auditor's report, including a requirement that contestants supply medical reports to establish their fitness; that promoters supply medical insurance for contestants; and that fighters be tested for HIV and hepatitis, as well as stimulants and other banned substances. The bill should also, as the audit suggests, take a serious look at the overcrowded venues where these events take place.

Given the unnerving appeal of the mixed martial arts events focusing on unrestrained violence, it's time lawmakers seriously consider some changes.

Short of an outright ban, the state's regulatory eye is a necessity.