Government Orders Review of Combat Sports Safety After Teen's Death

In the aftermath of the tragic death of 15-year-old kickboxing champion Alex Eastwood, the UK government has initiated a comprehensive review of safety protocols for children participating in combat sports. Eastwood, who was from Fazakerley in Liverpool, collapsed following an unsanctioned charity fight against a 17-year-old opponent on June 29, 2024, and succumbed to his injuries three days later on July 2, 2024.

The review was announced by Sports Minister Stephanie Peacock during a parliamentary session on July 3, 2024. She stated that Sport England will collaborate with the martial arts sector to identify necessary safety improvements and present a detailed plan within the coming months. Peacock's announcement follows a debate called by Liverpool Walton MP Dan Carden, who has vocally supported Eastwood's parents in their calls for enhanced regulation within the combat sports domain.

During the debate, Carden expressed that Eastwood's death highlighted significant gaps in the duty to protect young athletes, asserting, “Alex’s death was not simply a tragic accident but a preventable loss.” He noted the absence of regulatory frameworks governing unsanctioned fights, which, as he pointed out, often lack minimum safety standards, medical oversight, and safeguarding measures for participants.

Eastwood's father, Stephen Eastwood, and stepmother, Nikita, were present in Parliament during the discussions. Stephen Eastwood emphasized the need for better safeguarding protocols, first aid facilities, and medical care in gyms where children compete. He remarked, “We assumed that everything was above board - we assumed that everything was in place,” referring to the lack of awareness regarding the unregulated nature of the charity fundraiser fight held at TKMA Gym in Wigan.

In light of these events, the Eastwoods are scheduled to meet with Sport Secretary Lisa Nandy, where they will advocate for a minimum standard of safety for gyms that host children, including thorough DBS checks and robust safeguarding measures. Nikita Eastwood urged other families involved in kickboxing to inquire about the regulation and safety measures at their gyms, stating, “Ask, is this a regulated gym? Where are your DBS checks? Who’s your health and safety officer?”

Peacock confirmed that her department would work closely with Sport England and the children’s charity NSPCC to develop guidelines aimed at educating parents on how to ensure their children’s safety in martial arts training.

The inquest into Eastwood's death revealed alarming discrepancies in safety practices across various combat sports venues. Carden commented, “If a match is unofficial or unsanctioned, there is no guideline minimum standard that must be met to provide safeguarding for a child participant.” This lack of regulation presents a troubling reality where children can be subjected to dangerous combat situations without essential protections in place.

Peacock acknowledged the coroner's report, which underscored specific issues related to clubs and competitions not affiliated with national governing bodies. She noted, “We are now looking into that as a matter of urgency.” With continued advocacy from officials and families alike, there is hope that the review will lead to more stringent safety standards and regulations in combat sports, ensuring that young athletes are adequately protected in their endeavors.

As this story unfolds, stakeholders across the combat sports community are urged to engage in conversations about safety, regulation, and the well-being of young participants. The hope is that measures resulting from this review will prevent future tragedies and provide a safer environment for aspiring athletes.