Mr Clayton brings strong experience to the role, having previously held the position of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Greyhound Racing Victoria for six years. Prior to this, Mr Clayton helped establish Court Services Victoria as its inaugural CEO.

His wide public sector experience includes Deputy Secretary for Police, Emergency Services and Corrections at the Department of Justice and Community Safety, and Executive Director for Aged Care, Community and Mental Health at the Department of Health.

Mr Clayton replaces Simone Bailey who joined the board in 2015 and served as Chairperson for the last six years which included overseeing the arrival of mixed martial arts in Victoria.

Mr Clayton’s regulatory experience will support the long-term sustainability of combat sports as key functions of the Professional Boxing and Combat Sports Board includes promoting the safety of participants, working to reduce the risk of malpractice and upholding industry integrity.

The combat sports sector is growing and becoming increasingly popular, with Victoria hosting major events such as UFC 496 at Marvel Stadium in 2019 and the Kambosos vs Haney World Lightweight Championship in 2022.