Association of Ringside Physicians not in favor of smaller MayMac gloves
“Unless there is scientific evidence to support the view that such a change might improve the safety of this bout, we would strongly caution against allowing current regulation to be over-ruled.”
When the idea of Floyd Mayweather boxing Conor McGregor was first broached, UFC president Dana White wanted some degree of hybrid rules, elbows at the very least. However, when MayMac was finally announced, it was with boxing rules only, which means 10 oz. gloves. That is long way up from the 4 oz gloves that are used in professional MMA, or even from the 6 oz gloves used by amateurs.
Then Mayweather and McGregor agreed to 8 oz gloves. But they are fighting in Nevada, under the regulation of the Nevada State Athletic Commission, in a 12-round junior middleweight bout. NSAC rules dictate that boxers weighing up to 135 pounds must use 8-ounce gloves, while boxers weighing above 135 pounds must use 10-ounce gloves. Never the less, the NSAC said they would hear a petition from the fighters.
However, the Association of Ringside Physicians is not impressed, and expressed their views in a public letter.
To the Nevada State Athletic Commission:
The Association of Ringside Physicians understands that consideration is being given to amend current regulations, and in so doing, permit the use of 8oz Gloves in the forthcoming boxing match between Floyd Mayweather and Conor McGregor. This is a bout that has already been set a specified weight class. Unless there is scientific evidence to support the view that such a change might improve the safety of this bout, we would strongly caution against allowing current regulation to be over-ruled. To do so would also set a precedent for future bouts.
Respectfully,
Dr. Raymond M. Monsell
MSc MC BC FFSEM Dip Sport Med
Chairman of the Board of Directors
Association of Ringside Physicians
It is not at all clear what compelling argument McGregor and Mayweather can make in favor of the smaller gloves.
