Corner Insight: Thought Leadership in Sports Business
Fresh ideas, expert advice, and stories from the field to keep you ahead in the game.
The Systems Behind the Spectacle: What Super Bowl Week Reveals About Event GovernanceSpending time in the Bay Area during Super Bowl week provided a front-row view of what truly underpins major sporting events. While fans experience spectacle, scale, and entertainment, the real foundation lies in governance, regulatory alignment, legal frameworks, and operational coordination. This reflection explores what New Zealand can learn - not by replicating scale, but by strengthening the systems that shape world-class sporting experiences. Click to read more.
The End of the Boxing and Wrestling Act... And the Beginning of a Modern FrameworkThe repeal of the Boxing and Wrestling Act 1981 signals more than legislative change. It opens the door to redefining how combat sports are regulated, protected, and positioned globally from Aotearoa New Zealand. Click to read more.
From UFC 309 at MSG to NZ: Lessons in MMA RegulationAttending UFC 309 at Madison Square Garden—the world’s most famous arena—was a powerful reminder of how regulation transformed MMA into a respected global sport. What lessons can New Zealand learn from New York’s journey? Click to find out.
How Punching Above Our Weight Can Hurt: Balancing Growth and Community in New Zealand's MMA IndustryHow can we grow New Zealand’s MMA industry while preserving our community’s values? My recent research into global MMA promotions raises important questions about regulation and fairness in our local scene. Click to explore how we can shape a future that benefits everyone.
Louisville, Kentucky: Association of Boxing Commissions Convention 2024I joined global leaders at the ABC convention in Louisville to discuss fighter safety, MMA rule changes, and the latest in combat sports innovation. Strengthening ties between New Zealand and international bodies, I’m bringing back valuable insights to grow our combat sports scene. Click to read more.
Perfect mix of commercial and community: Henderson Silver KnightsAt a half-full Henderson Silver Knights game, the energy felt like a packed final. The mix of top-tier tech, crowd engagement, and community vibe was striking—even with every inch sponsored. How can we bring this balance to NZ sports? Click to read more.
Why the NRL WILL SUCCEED IN THEIR U.S. EXPANSION VENTUREKicking off my time in Las Vegas with the NRL was a whirlwind experience. Here’s why I believe the NRL will succeed in this bold venture: Strategic partnerships with big players lend credibility, adapting the game’s presentation makes it familiar to American fans, and offering a full experience for all stakeholders ensures wide appeal The impact of this move could shape the future of rugby league in Australia and New Zealand. Click to read more.
combat sports regulatory legend marc ratner (ufc)I had the privilege of sitting down with Marc Ratner, UFC’s Senior VP of Government and Regulatory Affairs, at their Las Vegas HQ, where he also gave me a tour of the world-class UFC Performance Institute. Marc, a trailblazer in combat sports regulation, shared insights that will profoundly impact CORNERMAN's work in New Zealand. Click to read more.
How the Power of Intentional Choices led to fight night at the UFC APEXComing to Las Vegas, the heart of MMA and combat sports regulation, was a deliberate choice. Every decision—from pursuing an LLM to booking this seven-week trip—has been part of my plan to achieve Something Different. Thanks to a "chance" meeting with UFC legend Din Thomas, I scored tickets to a UFC Fight Night at the exclusive Apex—a dream come true. This experience reminds me that the seeds we plant today can lead to incredible opportunities. Click to read more.
new frontiers: Bridging the divide between new zealand and U.S. Sports BusinessesThis year, I took a leap into the unknown—and it paid off beyond my wildest dreams. During my seven weeks Stateside, I connected with top industry experts from the NRL, UFC, PFL, WWE, and more, building relationships that will help transform New Zealand’s combat sports scene. With new insights and connections, we’re ready to shake up the regulatory and commercial landscape of combat sports in New Zealand. Click to read more.
Chasing Greatness: Leaping Into Sports LawI left my role as Senior Solicitor to pursue my true calling in sports law and consulting—a journey that started 25+ years ago on the rugby league sideline. From managing teams to guiding sports organisations today, this is where I belong. Click to read more.
