Health and Safety in Combat Sports: Interview with Natasha Jonas

As Chief Medical Officer of the Global Fighters’ Union, I recently had the chance to discuss the urgent need for better medical support for fighters with Olympic boxer Natasha Jonas. A seasoned athlete with years of experience in the ring, Natasha spoke candidly about the significant gaps in care that fighters face, both during their careers and beyond.

Natasha highlighted the lack of proper medical facilities in gyms, where most fighters spend the bulk of their time. Training injuries are a constant risk, yet many gyms have no access to trained medical staff, leaving fighters to either push through pain or risk long-term damage. This lack of early intervention, she explained, often leads to complications that could have been prevented with immediate care.

On fight nights, the situation isn’t much better. Natasha discussed the variability in the quality of ringside medical teams, pointing out that some lack the training or resources needed to address serious injuries effectively. This inconsistency puts fighters at risk during some of the most critical moments of their careers.

Perhaps most troubling, Natasha noted, is the absence of post-fight support for medical issues. Many fighters are left to deal with concussions, chronic injuries, and mental health challenges on their own. Without a structured system for follow-up care, these issues often go untreated, affecting fighters’ long-term health and quality of life.

Natasha’s perspective underscored the need for systemic change. She called for comprehensive measures, such as introducing medical staff in gyms, standardising ringside protocols, and providing ongoing care after fights. These steps, she emphasised, would not only protect fighters during their careers but also ensure they have a future once they leave the sport.

The Global Fighters’ Union is committed to addressing these challenges. Natasha’s insights are a powerful reminder of what’s at stake: the health, dignity, and futures of fighters around the world. It’s time to bring meaningful change to combat sports, ensuring that every fighter has access to the care they deserve.

Hassan Baig is a founder of the GFU and the current Chief Operating Officer at the World Kickboxing and Karate Association.

Also working as a surgeon in the West of Scotland, Hassan is well versed and experienced in Health and Safety in Combat Sports.