Prospect Heights alderman challenges rival to a fight

Richard Hamen, who is seeking re-election as Prospect Heights’ First Ward alderman, is challenging a political adversary to a mixed martial arts bout, with the loser bowing out of city politics for good.

Hamen, 40, issued the challenge to mayoral candidate Nicholas “Nick” Helmer during a recent city council meeting, but he said he would allow a stand-in for his 68-year-old rival.

The only response from Helmer, who is challenging incumbent Mayor Dolores “Dolly” Vole in the April 5 election, was “no comment.”

Mixed martial arts is a fighting competition in which combatants use different styles, such as boxing and wrestling. Hamen has offered to sell tickets for proposed contest and donate proceeds to OMNI Youth Services.

The challenge is the latest event in an escalating feud between Hamen and Helmer that’s also included complaints filed against one another with local police departments. Neither complaint led to charges.