CEDAR BLUFF, Ala. (WBRC) – Promoters of an illegal combat sports event are facing decades in prison and major fines after the event was shutdown by the Alabama Athletic Commission (AAC).

According to authorities, an event called “The Pit” took place Sept. 27 near Weiss Lake before it was stopped in joint operation by the Alabama Athletic Commission and the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Department.

After receiving a tip about the unlicensed event, authorities say a sheriff’s department drone and live social media feeds confirmed that the fights had started before authorities busted the event. Officials also say that minors were present at “The Pit” and that signs for the event lined a dirt road that led to the site where paid attendees paid admission and private security in “The Pit” shirts monitored the crowd.

Officials say the promoters and organizers of the event, Samuel Weaver and Javin Newsome, did not have the required licenses and permits from the AAC, who regulates all combat sports in the state.

Authorities say evidence from the operation, including photos, a fight card, and video feeds, were turned over to Assistant Attorney General Matt Bledsoe. If convicted, officials say that penalties could add up to decades in prison and hundreds of thousands of dollars in fines. The AAC says state law includes fines of up to $10,000 per violation of AAC rules and regulations.

“I can’t stress enough how dangerous these events are. Anyone who knows of illegal activity is encouraged to call our office,” stated Chief Inspector of the AAC Shane Sears.

Officials say the investigation is ongoing.

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