AAPRP Ratifies ABC Medical Recommendations

26.09 - Darien, Connecticut - September 26, 2003 - The American Association of Professional Ringside Physicians (AAPRP) announced that they have ratified the Association of Boxing Commissions (ABC) Basic Medical Requirements for Medical Qualifications in a Boxing Contest. The discussion and approbation took place at the AAPRP's 3rd Annual Medical Seminar held at the Aladdin Resort & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada from September 10-14, 2003.

Dr. Michael Schwartz, Chairman of the AAPRP stated, "We are extremely excited about endorsing these medical requirements and hope that this will finally lead to the standardization of basic medical testing throughout the world"

The ABC Medical Committee recommendations came during the annual ABC commission meeting in St. Louis last July. The AAPRP reviewed these recommendations taking into consideration safety issues, costs of tests and frequency of testing. The ratification vote from the AAPRP Members was unanimous.

The three-day convention also included a promoter's panel discussing safety in boxing. The panel included Mr. J. Russell Peltz, Mr. Lou DiBella, Mr. Gary Shaw and Mr. Kirk Hendrick. The main message from the promoters was the immediate necessity for standardization of medical testing.

Dr. Joseph Estwanik, author of Sports Medicine for the Combat Arts, stated "It is my opinion that the basic medical requirements for boxers as recommended by the American Association of Professional Ringside Physician are presently the minimum and reasonable requirements to maximize the safety of these competitors in a very vigorous sport. To attain full and maximal benefit, these requirements must be adapted and administered by all fifty states."

Mr. Tim Lueckenhoff, ABC President stated, "We are very excited that the membership has taken a huge step to develop and approve the minimum medical testing required to be a licensed boxer, I hope each commission both state and tribal begin the process of implementing these much need medical exams. As always the ABC appreciates and enjoys the great relationship we have developed with AAPRP."

The AAPRP will work closely with the ABC to disseminate these requirements to every boxing commission and state legislator in order to encourage adopting the proposed medical qualifications. "This is a significant opportunity to restore credibility and respectability in boxing." Schwartz continued, "We will finally be able to insure that every state meets their obligation to protect these athletes."

Basic Medical Requirements for Medical Qualification in Boxing

Medical Requirements Validity

1) Cat Scan/MRI Brain Scan Baseline
2) Dilated Eye Exam (Ophthalmologist) 1 Year
3) Hepatitis Bs Ag, Hepatitis C Ab, HIV Blood Testing 180 Days
4) Electrocardiogram (with interpretation) Initial only (if normal)
5) Complete History & Physical Examination 1 Year
(Commission approved form)
6) Final Pre-fight Mini-Physical at the Venue
7) Serum or Urine Pregnancy Test 14 Days Prior to Contest

Other Requirements

Ambulance with paramedics must be at the venue at all times

Recommendations

1) Physician can stop the fight
2) Suspended boxer can be re-instated only by suspending commission
3) Urine testing for illegal substances
4) Disposable gloves for all officials
5) Bio-Hazard bags in the corners and in the dressing rooms
6) No ringside flash photography
7) Physicians attend boxing related Continuing Medical Education Courses
8) Medical Information Release

Minimum Automatic Suspension Periods

TKO/KO 45 days (no contest) - 30 days (no sparring)
* If a loss of consciousness has occurred, the boxer must have a brain scan and be medically cleared by a neurologist.

Established in 1997, the American Association of Professional Ringside Physicians was created to develop medical protocols and guidelines to insure the safety and protection of professional boxers. The organization is comprised of the brightest and most experienced ringside physicians throughout the world who are devoted and dedicated to the medical aspects of boxing. Since its inception, the AAPRP now includes physicians from around the globe, working towards a common goal of insuring health, safety and protection in the sport of boxing.