Issue 096

December 2012

Dr Johnny Benjamin

Member of the Association of Boxing Commissions’ MMA Medical Advisor Panel

YES

A 90-day suspension without exertion (training) or contact should be mandatory for all fighters with even the suspicion of a concussion. Current research suggests as few as two or three concussions can lead to permanent brain injury. No uniform standards exist for the medical clearance of a concussed fighter. There is not even a uniform requirement for an MRI scan for all concussed fighters. The medical clearance of concussed fighters can be reasonably described as ‘highly variable’ at best and often inadequate. With this current lack of vigorous oversight and uniform policies regarding the proper management of concussions in MMA, caution should be exercised. There is growing medical research and opinion that the most reasonable treatment for a history of multiple traumatic brain injuries (TBI) includes an extended period of rest, often six to 12 months.

Shawn Jordan

UFC heavyweight with nine knockout wins and two career KO losses, 13-4

NO

It really just depends on the severity of the actual concussion. Football is a little different. You’re getting hit with the full force of the body. Yes, you have a helmet on, but your whole body is taking that impact. In fighting, if you get hit, you’re done. You’re out. You don’t get as much damage after the initial impact. So it has to be a case-by-case basis. Some guys get knocked out and they’re good to go in 30 days. It just depends on how bad it is. But that’s why we have doctors to check us out. We just need to make sure they clear us with a comparative CT scan, or MRI, or whatever is needed.

What you had to say on the matter ...

YES

“Science tells us that brain injuries take a long time to heal. A fighter’s best tool is his mind, we should always protect it.”

@JASONH_N_AUSTIN

NO

“Some knockouts are clearly more devastating than others, I don’t think there should be a standard suspension in the #UFC”

@SNAKEBITE350

YES

“Yes it should. It’s in the best interest of the fighter and organization so both can continue with a healthy future!”

@AERIALPRINCE

YES

“Yes, long term safety should be priority number one and then the fighters can’t come back later and say no one cared about them.”

@SWIKSHZ