The athletic commission in Utah is considering a rule change to create an amateur mixed martial arts license.

Currently, all fights and fighters in the state are licensed in the professional category, a status many promoters and fighters have taken issue with because fighters aren't able to gain experience beforehand.

Public comment is being sought to help shape the amateur license requirements. The public comment period lasts through Feb. 2.

"So far, I haven't heard anyone saying anything negative about it," said Bill Colbert, secretary of the Pete Suazo Utah Athletic Commission, which regulates mixed martial arts in the state.

Colbert said amateur fights likely will be limited to three-minute rounds instead of the customary five-minute rounds. Combatants also probably won't be allowed to stand and strike a downed opponent. Contestants still must be at least 18 years old.

Fighters who have earned significant pay from their contests or those who already have fought a professional fighter would not be allowed to claim amateur status. That would mean anyone who has previously fought in Utah will have a difficult time changing their status from professional to amateur.

Another issue Colbert said needs to be addressed is whether fighters' ticket sales will constitute payment for the fight and thus make them a professional. The practice is common with the Ultimate Combat Experience, where fighters get a percentage of profits from tickets they sell.

The rule could be enacted in March or April, Colbert said.

ssherman@sltrib.com