As fighters gear up for a big Ultimate Fighting Championship match this weekend in Newark, New Jersey, talk is heating up surrounding legalizing the sport in the Empire State.

UFC officials and fighters addressed fans and the media at Radio City Music Hall on Wednesday.

They were also joined by City Council member Joel Rivera who welcomed the idea of bringing mixed martial arts to the city and state.

Governor George Pataki banned the sport, however many supporters argue it could bring millions in revenue.

"We know that jobs will be created on the local level. You'll have street vendors selling UFC paraphernalia. You'll have stores selling the memorabilia for each fight that comes into town. You'll have restaurants that will be packed from tourists that will be coming from all over the entire United States and all over the world to see these elite combatants," Rivera said.

Opponents argue mixed martial arts promotes violence.

Former Governor David Paterson proposed overturning the ban, but it was voted down in the State Assembly.