MMA events usually feature the hardest-hitting action inside the cage. However, this was not the case on Saturday night as a regional show in Visalia, California was forced to abruptly end when a crowd disturbance escalated into a brawl of more than 100 people.
The violence broke out during 559 Fights 126: “Next Gen 4” at the Visalia Convention Center on August 22. Officers assigned to work the event requested immediate backup after the initial confrontation spread into several separate fights throughout the facility.
The on-site police detail was quickly overwhelmed by the number of people involved. Visalia Police ultimately sent 26 units to the convention center, while deputies and officers from the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office, Farmersville Police Department and Exeter Police Department also responded.
Authorities halted the event as officers worked to separate those fighting, disperse the crowd and clear the building. Fifteen people were arrested and booked into the Tulare County Adult Pre-Trial Detention Facility on various charges. Police had not released their identities or provided a breakdown of the individual allegations as of Monday.
Three Visalia Police officers sustained minor injuries while attempting to regain control of the venue. All three were treated and released.
The cause of the initial confrontation remains unclear. Authorities also have not said whether the people arrested were associated with any of the fighters or teams participating in the event.
559 Fights characterized the violence as an isolated incident involving a particular group of attendees. The promotion said anyone confirmed to have participated will be prohibited from attending its future events.
The organization added that the disturbance did not represent its fighters, coaches, staff or the majority of spectators. No serious injuries among attendees had been announced as of Monday.
