Somebody should have known better: Death of Edmonton man after MMA match raises regulation questions

Five years ago this week, I found myself sitting in a boxing ring at Hardknocks Boxing Club in downtown Toronto, engaging in a deep conversation with Bernard Hopkins, a legendary former world champion and future hall of famer. We talked about life, death, and the brutal beauty of the sweet science of boxing.

At that time, the boxing world was reeling from the news of Adonis Stevenson, a powerful light-heavyweight champion from Montreal, who was left comatose after a devastating knockout loss to Oleksandr Gvozkdyk. As we discussed the dangers inherent in the sport, Hopkins shared his perspective on the risks that fighters willingly take every time they step into the ring.

Fast forward to late November, and the tragic death of Trokon Dousuah, a 33-year-old Edmontonian who passed away after a charity MMA match in Alberta. The circumstances surrounding his death raised serious questions about fighter safety, regulations, and the responsibilities of event organizers.

Dousuah’s bout, organized by Ultra Events Canada, showcased fighters who appeared to be dressed as professionals, wearing standard MMA gear without headgear. This raised concerns about the lack of stringent safety protocols in place for amateur fighters, especially in a province like Alberta, which lacks a centralized commission to oversee combat sports.

The absence of proper medical exams, ambulance standby, and clear regulations for amateur fighters highlighted the need for stricter safety measures in the world of combat sports. The tragic deaths of Dousuah and Tim Hague, who passed away after a boxing match in 2017, underscored the importance of thorough pre-fight screenings and comprehensive safety checks for all fighters.

The lack of oversight in Alberta and the blurred lines between amateur and professional fighting raised critical questions about the duty of care owed to participants in combat sports. The need for modernized regulations, standardized safety protocols, and comprehensive medical testing became glaringly evident in the wake of Dousuah’s untimely death.

As the combat sports community grappled with the loss of Dousuah, calls for increased safety regulations and stricter enforcement measures grew louder. The need for a centralized commission to oversee combat sports in Alberta became more pressing, as the tragic consequences of inadequate safety measures became painfully clear.

In the aftermath of Dousuah’s death, it became apparent that amateur fighters should not be subjected to the same risks as professional athletes without the necessary training, experience, and medical clearance. The need for stewardship, accountability, and a commitment to prioritize fighter safety became paramount in the quest to prevent future tragedies in combat sports.

As the investigation into Dousuah’s death continued, it became evident that lessons must be learned, regulations must be strengthened, and the well-being of fighters must be prioritized above all else. The tragic loss of Dousuah served as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers of combat sports and the urgent need for comprehensive safety measures to protect the lives of those who step into the ring.