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Boxing, brains and balls
Abstract
The testicles of pugilists were placed ‘out of scoring range’ in 1838, yet all attempts to raise the central nervous system to equal status have, to date, proven unsuccessful. From the perspective of preventive medicine this issue, like boxers’ long term neurological health, should be kept alive.
Key Points
Amateur boxing has had a proud and honourable history since its introduction as an Olympic sport in 686 BC. Although progressive rule changes during the past 200 years have made the sport fairer and safer, the fundamental aim remains the disablement of an opponent by inflicting damage to his brain. The gold standard remains the knockout blow, resulting from cerebral contusion or worse.
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