Toughman Fights vs Amateur Boxing

FIGHTING FOR THE CAUSE:  by Brian Zelley

There was a time when "So You Think You Are Tough" or "Toughman Fights " 
were popular in the seventies and eighties.  In 1991, there was an attempt to 
ban them in Victoria.  In "The Victoria Star", they had an editorial titled
"Fighters Have Rights"  October 30, 1991, "The Victoria Star".


the editorial, attempted to support the activity, so my response was made
in November 1991 with the following headline: 
"Toughman Fights Ruin Boxing's Image" and with the following narrative:

I agree with your comments about arbitrary decisions, however, it is also
important to recognize the general rights of the sport of boxing and 
the negative impact  that toughman fights have on amateur boxing. 

Since the late '60's when the Canadian Amateur Boxing Association 
was formed, much effort has been made by many dedicated 
Canadians to improve the image, quality and standards in boxing. 
Amateur boxing prides itself in safety, sportsmanship and
ceremony.

It is my personal opinion that toughman competitions exhibit unsafe practices,
unsportsmanlike conduct and negative images.  Your comments"infact, 
it is uncommon for for a fighter to get seriously injured during a toughman 
competition" are shallow.  The most serious injuries that could result 
from out-of-control fistic activity are the internal injuries such as
brain damage, liver damage and kidney damage. To avoid or minimize  these
serious injuries , it is vital that high standards of pre-bout, fight, and post-bout 
controls  are strictly enforced.  Any departure from the highest level of
of contol is unacceptable.

From my involvement in amateur boxing since 1963, it is my view that
toughman contests do not meet the test of reasonable levels of control.
Therefore, in fairness to the participants and the general image of 
boxing, there are no worthy or warranted reasons that the city council
to authorize and sanction toughman contests in city facilities. -
Brian W. Zelley.  November 13, 1991, "The Victoria Star".


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