Bare-knuckle boxing - a sport where fighters don't wear gloves, and the stakes are high. The UK's first sanctioned bare-knuckle fighting championship is coming to Derby, with promoters claiming that their version of the sport is safer than traditional boxing. But others say it's just as brutal.
The controversy over bare-knuckle boxing has been ongoing for years. Critics argue that the lack of gloves increases the risk of serious injury, including concussions and broken bones. However, proponents of the sport claim that it's a more authentic form of combat sports, where fighters must rely on their wits and physical skill to outmaneuver their opponents.
One of the reasons for its growing popularity is the rise of social media influencers like Conor McGregor, who owns part of the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC). These fighters have become celebrities in their own right, with millions of followers hanging on their every move. But some say that this increased visibility comes at a cost - a lack of safety precautions and a disregard for the well-being of athletes.
Despite the risks, many fighters are turning to bare-knuckle boxing as a way out of mental health struggles or as a new challenge after years of traditional boxing. For Luke Brassfield, a 38-year-old middleweight fighter from Long Eaton in Derbyshire, bare-knuckle fighting has become a way to release his emotions and find positivity.
"I want to get onto a big platform to spread the word about mental health and positivity," he said. "There is a way out of rock bottom, and the rise is beautiful."
While some say that bare-knuckle boxing is irresponsible, others argue that it's just as exciting as traditional boxing - if not more so. The lack of gloves adds an element of brutality to the sport, but also makes it more raw and visceral.
As the debate rages on, one thing is clear: bare-knuckle boxing is here to stay. With its growing popularity and increasing visibility, it's time for us to take a closer look at this contentious sport and decide for ourselves whether it's worth embracing or rejecting.
The controversy over bare-knuckle boxing has been ongoing for years. Critics argue that the lack of gloves increases the risk of serious injury, including concussions and broken bones. However, proponents of the sport claim that it's a more authentic form of combat sports, where fighters must rely on their wits and physical skill to outmaneuver their opponents.
One of the reasons for its growing popularity is the rise of social media influencers like Conor McGregor, who owns part of the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC). These fighters have become celebrities in their own right, with millions of followers hanging on their every move. But some say that this increased visibility comes at a cost - a lack of safety precautions and a disregard for the well-being of athletes.
Despite the risks, many fighters are turning to bare-knuckle boxing as a way out of mental health struggles or as a new challenge after years of traditional boxing. For Luke Brassfield, a 38-year-old middleweight fighter from Long Eaton in Derbyshire, bare-knuckle fighting has become a way to release his emotions and find positivity.
"I want to get onto a big platform to spread the word about mental health and positivity," he said. "There is a way out of rock bottom, and the rise is beautiful."
While some say that bare-knuckle boxing is irresponsible, others argue that it's just as exciting as traditional boxing - if not more so. The lack of gloves adds an element of brutality to the sport, but also makes it more raw and visceral.
As the debate rages on, one thing is clear: bare-knuckle boxing is here to stay. With its growing popularity and increasing visibility, it's time for us to take a closer look at this contentious sport and decide for ourselves whether it's worth embracing or rejecting.
. On one hand, I love the idea of a more authentic form of combat sports where fighters have to rely on their wits and skills to win. It's like watching a real-life game of " survival of the fittest" 
. But on the other hand, I'm seriously worried about the safety implications 
. All those broken bones and concussions can't be good for our kids or anyone else who gets involved in this sport.
. But we need to make sure that everyone involved in this sport is taking proper precautions and looking out for each other's well-being 
.
. Conor McGregor might be a superstar, but that doesn't mean he shouldn't be promoting safety and responsible behavior 
.
. But if we can find ways to make this sport safer and more positive for everyone involved, then maybe it's not so bad after all 
.
but at the same time its kinda fascinating how these fighters are all about bein authentic & relyin on their wits & skills to win 
like what if hes gets a concussion or breaks his arm?? 
gotta make sure my bf is doin ok before i watch him fight 
). We should be focusing on making sure our athletes are protected from serious injury, not glorifying the risk-taking aspect.
. Bare knuckle boxing sounds like a recipe 4 disaster! All those broken bones & concussions r no joke 
. And what about all the mental health struggles? R they really gonna benefit from gettin punched in the face 4 a living 
? I just dont think its worth the risk...
and dont even get me started on the mental health aspect - all these fighters are using this sport as a way to "release their emotions"... doesnt that sound kinda unstable? 
i mean, whats wrong with traditional boxing or MMA where ppl wear gloves and have some semblance of safety? bare-knuckle just seems like a bunch of reckless dudes hitting each other till one of them taps out 
, but on the other hand, they're also doing it for mental health reasons or just to prove something to themselves 
. If we want to see more bare-knuckle fights, then let's make sure our fighters are protected and that the promoters are being responsible too 
.
But at the same time, you can't deny that there are some serious concerns about safety and brain injuries. It's like, yeah, it's a rush to fight without gloves, but is it really worth risking your health?