WORLD FAMOUS FIGHTING SPORT: Three Reasons Why Boxing Should Not Be Banned

Also called pugilism and prize fighting, Boxing has come a long way from its first recorded match in 688 B.C. in ancient Greece. Included among the other Olympic and Commonwealth sport, amateur and professional boxing rules had been amended throughout the years, resulting to include more safety rules.

Considered to be one of the most demanding sports in the world, boxing is not for the faint-hearted. Boxing involves balance, speed, hand-eye coordination, agility or quickness and strength. Training is rigid and only those deemed to have acquired the skill and discipline required to fight in the ring are allowed to do so even in amateur boxing matches.

When asked by the most inquisitive mind why boxing should not be banned, knowledgeable people would say these three simple reasons.

First: There are rules governing boxing. It is legal in almost all countries. There are governing and sanctioning bodies that control boxing as a sport. There’s the European Boxing Union, World Boxing Association, International Boxing Federation, World Boxing Council. World Boxing Organization, British Boxing Board of Control and the Nevada State Athletic Commission.

Second: Despite the many medical concerns involving boxing, every fighting match is not a fight to the death. There is no intent to kill with every punch delivered. Yes, there are several reported cases of brain damage because of repeated experiences of concussions. This is the reason why boxers are not allowed to fight long in the ring, alleviating the occurrence of sustaining punches to the head. Also, not all punches that will garner points are aimed in the head. Delivering a knock-out is not a necessity when the safety of the combatants is foremost in the minds of organizers and judges.

Third: Boxers, because of training, improves their cardiovascular conditions. They gain strength, endurance, alertness, confidence and power. The ultimate workout, boxing exercises, not just hitting punching bags and weight lifting, can burn a lot of calories, conditioning and toning muscles, and eventually keeping the body in tip top shape.

There have been many arguments and discussions regarding the pros and cons of boxing. Since like other combat sports, boxing has always been associated with violence even if combatants use padded gloves in delivering those lethal punches. With the numerous rules and regulations focused on safety and good health, it is no wonder than many factions that wanted to push legislation to ban boxing haven’t succeeded.