Combat sports have always captivated audiences with their raw intensity and skilful displays. Boxing, kickboxing, Muay Thai the list goes on. The entertainment these sports give to our culture is paramount and undeniable however, at what cost to the competitors? CTE – Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy is the hidden danger of combat sports and has devastating effects on competitors.
What is it?
In simple terms CTE is a disease formed within the brain caused by repeated blows to the head. It is just one of the many risks and injuries that fighters face. Some people are more likely to get the disease but often combat sports practitioners and sports where concussions are likely; such as American Football greatly increases your chances to develop the disease. There are some indicators that diligent athletes now look for. Having the gene APOEε4 makes an individual almost 2.5 times more likely to develop a more severe form of CTE which can develop into Alzheimer’s disease.
Examples of fighters with CTE
Muhammad Ali
By many considered the greatest boxer of all time, a gold medallist and multiple world champion. What he did within the sport and his efforts outside the ring is incredible. Watching this man go from being so fast and witty in and out the ring is not only very sad it should be looked at as a cautionary tale for aspiring fighters.
One thing that I believed played a big part to Ali’s decline was his understanding of biology. Ali believed that similar to developing calluses on your hands you could develop them on your brain. He actively encouraged fighters in sparring to hit him hard to develop this “toughness” Understanding of the brain back then was limited. He used his toughness as an attribute in the later half of his career notably “The rumble in the jungle” when he let George Foreman who was a ferocious puncher lay into him in a bid to wear Foreman out. It worked, but at what cost?
Gary Goodridge
Gary Goodridge, a former professional mixed martial artist, competed in organisations like the UFC. He is known to have one of the most brutal knockout wins against Paul Herrera After retiring, he faced memory loss, speech difficulties, and cognitive impairments. Goodridge was diagnosed with CTE and has since become an advocate, raising awareness about the condition in combat sports. Goodridge’s story serves as a dark reminder that the thrill of combat sports always comes at a cost to the fighter even after they retire.
CTE symptoms
Many combat sports athletes experience mild CTE like symptoms and sometimes it does not continue to develop any further. These are just some symptoms for CTE.
- Memory loss
- Speech difficulties
- Cognitive impairments
- Impaired judgment and decision-making
- Mood swings and emotional instability
- Depression and anxiety
- Impulsivity and aggression
- Suicidal thoughts or behavior
- Difficulty with balance and motor skills
- Parkinsonism (tremors, stiffness, and movement problems)
Prevention
The best way to prevent CTE is to not receive damage to the brain, when you are a fighter this is almost impossible to achieve. Even the most elusive boxers like Floyd Mayweather still get clipped. However, these are some of the things that can be done to reduce the risk of CTE.
- Correct technique and safe practices in training
- Wear appropriate protective gear such as headgear and gum-shields
- Undergo regular medical check-ups to monitor for signs of head injuries
- Allow for adequate rest and recovery periods to promote healing (do not continue sparring/fighting after concussions)
Final thoughts
When it goes bad, its awful. CTE and further developments into Alzheimers is a horrible disease to live with and care for. It isn’t just hard for the individual but for loved ones also. These examples should serve as reminders of the potential risks that combat sports athletes face regarding CTE. I hope in the future the damage received by practitioners can somehow be reversed.
What is CTE?
CTE – Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy is a disease formed within the brain caused by repeated blows to the head.