Review begun after boxer badly injured
A boxer was stunned twice by punches, prompting the referee to check if he was OK to continue, before he was knocked out at a charity event.
A review is under way into the fight that left Kain Parsons in a critical condition. A Canterbury District Health Board spokeswoman said yesterday the family had requested privacy so she was unable to provide an update on his condition.
Parsons, a former builderturned-project-manager for Versatile Garages, was knocked unconscious during a fight against former Canterbury and Tasman Makos halfback Steve Alfeld at the Onestaff Fight for Christchurch 2018 on Saturday.
It is understood Parsons received two eight standing counts in the first round, with the referee briefly stopping the fight to check if Parsons was OK to continue.
Parsons was knocked unconscious in the second round.
He was taken to Christchurch Hospital in a critical condition after emergency services were called to Horncastle Arena about 11pm.
Event promoter Callam Mitchell said yesterday a detailed review of the incident was under way. It was too early to say whether the event would be held again but changes would be made if it was.
The changes would be based on the outcome of the review, and in discussion with the New Zealand Professional Boxing Association (NZPBA).
Mitchell said all contenders undertook two medical examinations, including one the day before their fight.
‘‘I can confirm that in addition to the 12-week training programme for this event, Kain had taken up boxing for fitness reasons about 18 months ago.
‘‘He’d attended at least one Fight for Christchurch event and was very enthusiastic at the prospect of taking part and helping raise money for charity.’’
The event was officiated by referees and judges from NZPBA.
Given many contenders had no previous boxing experience, matchups were selected based on a number of factors including their size, height, weight, previous experience and any other sporting history.
Parsons was not wearing headgear for the fight, which was optional. The policy is in line with NZPBA.
‘‘We also note that commentary by experts in the media during the past 24 hours illustrates varying opinions on the matter.
‘‘Some say it should be mandatory, while others say headgear prevents fighters from feeling the full impact of blows and therefore are more likely to suffer concussion.’’ Parsons was raising money for Conductive Education, a charity supporting the schooling of children with developmental delays and motor disorders.