Injuries in Combat Sports

When Can I File A Personal Injury Claim?

Boxing, kickboxing, wrestling and mixed martial arts carry inherent risks which may pose potential injuries in combat sports.  Injuries can vary from minor bruises to severe head trauma.

While injuries are a frequent occurrence in these sports, there are circumstances when an injured athlete may be eligible to file a personal injury claim. It is also important to know that those who take part in competitive matches are usually asked to sign a form waiving liability for an injury. But if you sustain an injury due to someone else’s negligence or reckless conduct, you may be entitled to make a personal injury claim for compensation.

Common Injuries in Combat Sports

Combat sports typically involve many parts of the body being at risk of injury. These may include:

Head and Brain Injuries

Head injuries are among the most serious risks in combat sports. Repeated blows to the head can lead to:

• Concussions – Temporary brain dysfunction caused by impact. Symptoms of this injury are headaches, dizziness, and memory loss.
• Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) – A degenerative brain condition linked to repeated head trauma. This may be frequently seen in boxing and MMA.
• Skull Fractures – A severe injury where the skull bone cracks due to intense force.

Facial and Eye Injuries

Facial injuries are common due to direct punches, kicks, and accidental eye pokes. These include:

• Nasal fractures – A broken nose is one of the most frequent injuries in boxing and MMA.
• Cuts and lacerations – Skin tears, especially around the eyes and forehead. This may result in excessive bleeding and require stitches.
• Detached retinas – A severe eye injury that can cause permanent vision impairment.

Neck and Spinal Injuries

Strikes, throws, and submissions can put immense pressure on the neck and spine. Injuries may involve:

• Cervical sprains and strains – Painful conditions caused by excessive movement or impact.
• Herniated discs – Bulging or ruptured spinal discs that can cause nerve pain and long-term mobility issues.
• Paralysis – In extreme cases, spinal trauma can lead to partial or complete paralysis.

Upper and Lower Limb Injuries

Combat sports place immense stress on the arms and legs, increasing the likelihood of:

• Fractures – Common in the hands from punching, legs from kicks, and arms from submissions or blocks.
• Dislocations – Occurring frequently in the shoulders, elbows, and knees.
• Torn ligaments – ACL, MCL, and meniscus injuries are prevalent due to sudden directional changes and forceful impacts.

Internal Injuries

Blunt force trauma from strikes or takedowns can cause:

• Rib fractures – These fractures are painful and may lead to difficulty breathing and movement.
• Organ damage – Liver and kidney injuries can result from powerful body shots.
• Internal bleeding – A serious condition that may not present symptoms immediately, but can be life-threatening.

 When Can You File a Personal Injury Claim?

While most injuries in combat sports are considered part of the risks associated with participation, there are situations where an injured athlete may have legal grounds to file a personal injury claim. These include negligence, reckless conduct, and intentional harm.

Negligence occurs when a responsible party fails to take reasonable precautions to prevent injuries. Some common scenarios include inadequate supervision such as monitoring sparring sessions. It can also involve unsafe training conditions, such as faulty equipment or safety gear or improper medical care.

Another factor may be excessive or illegal conduct by an opponent, which includes excessive force beyond reasonable competition. This is if your opponent ignores the referees’ instructions and causes unnecessary harm.

Filing a Personal Injury Claim: Steps to Take

If you, or a loved one, has sustained an injury in a competitive match due to negligence you may be able to bring an injury claim against the negligent party.  You will need to show that the negligence is directly linked to the harm caused.

If you believe that you have a valid claim, you must ensure you seek medical attention. Medical records are essential when it comes to a claim. You should also report the incident to event organisers.

It is also crucial to gather evidence, such as video footage and witness statements. A lawyer who is experienced in sports injuries can assess your case and guide you through the process. Not all injuries should be accepted as part of the sport.

At Jefferies Claims we partner with expert lawyers who work on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis. Call us today at 0333 358 3034 or visit Jefferies Claims Contact Page for a free, no-obligation consultation.