Palatine OKs MMA fights at Durty Nellie's

Durty Nellie's in Palatine bills itself as a friendly, neighborhood tavern that's also one of suburban Chicago's top live music venues.

Fighting usually would result in being escorted to the exit by a bouncer, but not Jan. 28 and March 16 when competitors will take to the cage for Mixed-Martial Arts fights.

The Palatine Village Council on Monday unanimously approved Durty Nellie's request to play host to the events in conjunction with X-Treme Fighting Organization Inc.

Nearly 350 people attended a similar competition in the bar's band room in November, said Nicole Augoustatos, Durty Nellie's director of marketing and promotions.

"Everything was very civilized and a lot of fun," Augoustatos said. "Normally you have to go to Vegas for something like this, and we bring it to your backyard."

In October, a Bartlett bar owner withdrew a request to host MMA events - which feature wrestling, various martial arts and boxing - after dozens of residents objected. But Augoustatos said she hasn't heard any complaints, and police reported no problems at the first event.

Under an agreement with the village, Durty Nellie's will provide a ringside physician, professional referee and on-site ambulance. The bar also will hire two Palatine police officers for extra security.

Should the bar continue hosting the fights, the village will have to amend Durty Nellie's current special use, which is limited to live bands and DJs.