Last Updated on March 14, 2025 by tanya

Injuries in Combat Sports

 

When a Waiver Form Does Not Cover an Injury

 

Injuries in combat sports, including boxing, mixed martial arts (MMA), kickboxing, judo, and wrestling, are often viewed as part and parcel of the sport. Participants understand there are injury risks with tough physical contact.

However, this does not mean that all injuries are automatically considered acceptable or that legal action is never an option. In some circumstances, you may have grounds to file a personal injury claim, even if you have signed a waiver form.

If you want to find out more about a claim for compensation, First Personal Injury can help. We work with lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis and who can assess your case.

 

Frequent Injuries in Combat Sports

Due to the nature of combat sports, injuries are common and can range from minor bruises and cuts to life-threatening conditions. These may include:

 

Concussions and Head Trauma – Repeated blows to the head can result in concussions, brain injuries, and long-term neurological conditions such as chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE).

 

Fractures and Broken Bones – Strikes, falls, and joint locks can cause in broken ribs, arms, legs, or facial bones.

 

Dislocations and Sprains – High-impact moves and takedowns often lead to dislocated shoulders, elbows, or knee injuries.

 

Cuts and Lacerations – Combat sports involving striking may see to deep cuts requiring stitches.

 

Internal Injuries – Blows to the torso can damage organs. This may cause internal bleeding and serious medical complications.

 

Spinal Injuries – A bad fall or poorly executed move can cause severe spinal damage with long lasting impact.

 

Waiver Forms in Combat Sports

 

Before participating in combat sports, athletes are often required to sign a waiver or liability release form. These documents acknowledge the risks involved. They also indicate that the participant accepts responsibility for any injuries sustained during normal participation.

However, a waiver form does not provide blanket immunity for all injuries and in certain circumstances, it may not cover an injury. There are situations where an injury falls outside the scope of a waiver, making a personal injury claim possible.

If a coach, referee or event organiser acts negligently which results in an injury, you may be entitled to file a claim. Examples of this may include sparring against a much more experienced opponent without proper supervision. Alternatively, inadequate safety measures, such as faulty protective equipment or medical checks before a match are not carried out. Any event should have necessary medical support in case of injuries, with qualified medical staff present.

Other examples include when a participant is visibly concussed and is allowed to continue fighting. Additionally, f there is reckless or intentional misconduct by an opponent, this may be grounds for a personal injury claim. This is when the opponent deliberately attacks with excessive force or outside the rules.

 

Take The Next Steps

 

If you have sustained an injury which you believe may be due to negligence, reckless behaviour or improper safety measures, you may be entitled to file a personal injury claim.

Ensure that you keep all medical records of treatment for the injury. Obtain evidence by photographing defective equipment or unsafe conditions. Collecting witness statement will also strengthen your case.

A personal injury lawyer with experience in sports injuries should assess your case and advise on the likelihood of success. This includes reviewing the waiver and whether there are grounds to challenge it.

At First Personal Injury, we partner with expert lawyers who work on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis. Call us at 0333 358 2345 or contact us online for a free consultation.