In the March 2014 edition of the American Journal of Sports Medicine, concussion researchers Michael Hutchinson, PhD, and his colleagues at the University of Toronto’s Macintosh Sports Medicine Clinic published some very interesting research regarding knockouts and TKOs in elite MMA. These concussion experts reviewed video from 844 UFC bouts between 2006 and 2012, then used statistical methods (regression analysis) which helped them draw certain conclusions and make specific recommendations. I applaud their serious efforts and believe that their work can and should broaden and further the conversation regarding enhanced fighter safety in combat sports. As is commonly said in the medical research arena: The best research creates more questions than it answers. In an attempt to distill the information contained in this important scholarly article with as little bias as I can muster, I’ll present their observations, conclusions and suggestions: Observations Roughly one-third of 844 UFC bouts reviewed (2006-20012) ended in knockout or TKO. For knockouts, the average time to stoppage after the responsible blow was 3.5 seconds with the vanquished fighter receiving on average 2.6 additional blows before the referee halted the contest.
Originally posted here:
Ask the Fight Doc: Thoughts on new concussion research from Toronto – MMA Junkie