By Ken Reed
Why Are We Still Sanctioning Boxing?
Tim Hague was 34. He died from boxing, a sport whose entire purpose is to try and concuss one’s opponent.
Given how much we know about the short-and-long-term dangers of brain trauma, including chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), can there be any compelling reason to continue sanctioning boxing matches?
Hague had a nine-year-old son and was a popular teacher at École Bellevue School in a small town near Edmonton, Canada.
What a waste. What a tragic ending to such a young, promising life. Here’s the statement from Hague’s family:
“It is with incredible sadness, sorrow and heartbreak to report that Tim has passed away today. He was surrounded by family, listening to his favourite songs. We will miss him so greatly. We ask for privacy during this difficult time.”
Boxing has always been a little on the barbaric side. But for decades we thought the use of smelling salts could quickly restore a vanquished boxer to normalcy.
Now we know better. As such, it’s time we progress as a society and leave boxing to the history books.
— Ken Reed, Sports Policy Director, League of Fans
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