Police charged an Austintown man for organizing unlicensed boxing events at his business on Raccoon Road. Investigators identified Desmond Marrow as the person responsible for promoting and hosting the fights at BTO Fit through an entity called “Controlled Chaos.”
The Ohio Athletic Commission (OAC) alerted the Austintown Police Department on October 4 after discovering livestreamed and marketed fights held without permits. Officials informed Marrow that he needed proper licensing, but he ignored the warning and continued to advertise an event scheduled for October 5.
When officers met with Marrow, he argued that he had hosted similar fights for three years and claimed the local fire chief approved them. Police informed him he violated state licensing laws and township regulations by collecting entry and streaming fees without permits. Advertising materials showed fighters were being paid from $50 to several hundred dollars, including travel and lodging compensation.
Police Say Marrow Defied Orders to Cancel Event
Authorities ordered Marrow to cancel the October 5 event, but he attempted to move it elsewhere before holding it at BTO Fit anyway. An officer later saw multiple vehicles in the parking lot and confirmed via Marrow’s social media that boxing matches were underway inside.
Police noted that Marrow continued to advertise more fights throughout October, despite repeated warnings. One of those events, held on October 12, reportedly featured a “baby oil boxing” match in which a female participant told police she was assaulted by other women.
The ongoing promotion of unlicensed fights prompted further investigation, leading police to document multiple violations of state and township laws.
Investigation Leads to Arrest and Pending Charges
Investigators submitted their findings to the Mahoning County Prosecutor’s Office, which issued a warrant for Marrow’s arrest on October 15. Officers later arrested him on October 29 after responding to an altercation between Marrow and the owner of Walrus Subs, also on Raccoon Road.
Marrow now faces several misdemeanor charges related to the illegal boxing events. Authorities say he continued to collect admission and streaming fees without authorization.
His arraignment is scheduled for November 3, where he will answer to charges of promoting and conducting unsanctioned public events. Police say the case serves as a reminder that all combat sports in Ohio require state permits and oversight to protect both participants and spectators.
