A recent study by neurologists has raised serious concerns about the dangers of professional slap fighting, particularly the risk of concussions.

After reviewing footage of televised slap-fighting competitions in the United States, doctors concluded the sport may pose a greater risk of neurological damage than previously thought.

The slap fight, featured in the Power Slap competition owned by UFC president Dana White, involves two competitors taking turns slapping each other with full force.

Participants cannot defend themselves, wear headgear, or even move, which could result in severe trauma. Power Slap’s first television appearance aired in 2023, and it is currently in its third season.

Neurologists from the University of Pittsburgh and the VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System reviewed footage from the first season of Power Slap and found clear signs of concussion in approximately 30% of the slaps analyzed.

Of the 333 slaps reviewed, 97 resulted in post-traumatic symptoms, including blank stare, difficulty standing, coordination problems, vomiting, amnesia, and post-traumatic seizures.

Of the 56 participants, 44 experienced concussion symptoms at least once, while 20 experienced concussion symptoms multiple times during the competition. Of the participants who experienced concussion symptoms, 75% of them lost the competition.

Lead researcher Raj Swarup Lawari stressed that while it may be difficult to ban slapping, the goal is to raise awareness and improve safety standards for athletes involved in such sports. Lawari said, “Our ultimate goal is to make all professional sports safer for the neurological health of athletes.”

Other medical professionals have also expressed concern. Neuroscientist and former wrestler Christopher Nowinski highlighted a competitor showing signs of brain injury in the form of a ‘fencing posture’, a reflex that indicates severe traumatic brain injury. Another neurologist, Nicholas Evangelou, warned that the sport could lead to serious brain injury. “recipe for destruction” Is.

The team is now conducting further research to measure the impact force on competitors’ heads using the mouthpiece, which could help inform safety regulations for the sport.