Many credit the fact that Ontario's local economy was struggling the year prior to the decision and that with Ontario having a deficit of around $20 billion at the time. MMA events in Ontario would generate and stimulate Ontario tourism and possibly generate millions in economic activity. Minister of Consumer Services, Sophia Aggelonitis, said, "My other goal is to provide an economic boost for communities who want to hold MMA events." The New Democratic Party, despite criticizing the Liberal government for changing their minds on the sport, supported the legalization of MMA because of the opportunity for economic benefits. The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) has long waited for and petitioned the Ontario government for legalization of the sport. UFC hosted UFC 129 in Toronto and pulled in a record 55, 000 fans and exceeding 11 million in gate revenue, making it the largest and most profitable MMA event in North America.
