INJUNCTION HALTS 'FIGHT CLUB'

(AUSTIN, December 20-AP) -- A temporary injunction will halt brawls at an unlicensed combative sports club known as "Fighter's House" in suburban Dallas.

Texas Attorney General John Conryn today announced the order that affects the site in a Farmers Branch strip mall.

The case was referred to the Attorney General's office by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, which got a tip about the unlicensed fights.

Cornyn's office says Todd Handel and Shannon Ritch have now agreed not to promote or conduct such activities until obtaining a license, with final court approval.

The AG's office says the alleged ground rules for such fights included open strikes to the face in the ten-minute first round, then closed fists to the body -- as well as kicking. Two contestants at a time fought in an unapproved ring -- a mat on a gym floor. Fans typically paid $5 to watch.