

In the unforgiving realm of boxing, fighter safety has been one of the most controversial and debated topics in the sport. Rigorous regulations and protocols were established to ensure that fighters are adequately protected. However, as recent events underscore, this commitment to safeguarding fighters’ health can sometimes waver.
This was further highlighted during Denys Berinchyk vs. Anthony Yigit taking place on the undercard of Oleksandr Usyk vs. Daniel Dubois. The two previously faced back in the 2021 Olympics and their encounter was still fresh as they squared off once more, this time as professionals over 12 gripping rounds. While the narrative of their rematch was pulsating, an alarming subplot emerged – one that exposed the glaring gaps in protective measures.
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Boxer’s desperate plea for medical attention ignites outrage
Following the bout which Yigit lost via unanimous decision, he took to social media and revealed a glaring lapse in the medical aspects of the event. In a video, he claimed that his plea for his cuts to be stitched was not addressed properly. However, this revelation was merely the tip of the iceberg, as it was revealed that access to vital medical resources was alarmingly restricted.
“Right, so after the fight, I had a cut here and here. I told them I needed it to be stitched, and they told me that they don’t have the equipment ready. I told them to go to the hospital because they have equipment there. But they said they can’t take me to the hospital. I said why, and they said it was only for life-threatening injuries.” said Yigit
This ain't how you take care of the fighters. Do better. pic.twitter.com/6bDhcqI31a
— Anthony Yigit (@YigitAnthony) August 27, 2023
This video quickly took over social media and ignited a wave of anger and disbelief among fans and enthusiasts alike. This also included legendary promoter Lou DiBella known for his unapologetic takes on speaking up on the incident.
Di Bella claimed that this kind of practice reflected a time from which the sport had long passed. He also added that there should be a minimum of two ambulances ready for an emergency.
This reflects the awful, barbaric, lack of uniform health & safety standards in #boxing. No central governance results in fighters being poorly protected. There should be 2 ambulances for every card of magnitude and no fighter should be denied access to immediate medical care.
— Lou DiBella🥊 (@loudibella) August 27, 2023
Read More: Fans Left Shocked After Boxer Turns Opponent Into “Kevin Hart”
Another user was also unhappy after seeing a fighter neglected after putting his body on the line.
That's not cool! You put on a show, risk your health, and get kicked to the curb. That's just not cool 😕
— MemezAway! 🤟 (@memezaway) August 27, 2023
Moreover, a user thought that this practice was just plain wrong in his eyes.
That’s just wrong.
— Arthur Peeples ⭐️⭐️ (@ArthurAnpeeples) August 27, 2023
Another user had some harsh words for promoters and also praised Yigit for his tenacity.
boxing promoters are scumbags. doing the right thing calling them out. you were a warrior.
— ehren sam (@ehren_sam) August 27, 2023
However, a user suggested that the Swedish boxer take an Uber to reach the hospital instead of calling for an ambulance.
Your a grown ass man it’s 2023 get an Uber
— Jack Phoenix (@jackphoenix1) August 27, 2023
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The uproar from fans and industry figures reveals that spectators hold a vested interest in the well-being of the fighters. Moreover, this incident encapsulates the fragile balance between the spectacle of combat sports and the responsibility of protecting its participants. Anthony Yigit’s ordeal highlights the distressing gaps that exist in the realm of fighter safety. In addition, this also demands both introspection and accountability from promoters who should be the ones taking care of thier fighters.
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What did you think about Yigit calling out his promoter for lack of medical help after his fight? Let us know in the comments.
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