US federal review shows the UFC is missing the mark on fighters' safety and well-being

The UFC might not be meeting all the criteria regarding fighter safety, as per a US federal review. Combat Sports lawyer Erik Magraken recently posted a screenshot from an unnamed review showing six benchmarks for fighter safety. It read:

The six elements that could help protect the health and safety of boxers (combat fighters) are providing the following:

1. medical examinations, including neurological testing;
2. monitoring of training injuries; of medical
3. assessments risks;
4. health and life insurance;
5. the presence of appropriate medical personnel and equipment; and
6. enforcement of suspensions for injuries.

While the UFC meets most of the criteria, it is missing out in terms of insurance. The promotion doesn't provide a comprehensive health insurance package for its fighters, who are classified as independent contractors. The UFC has come under severe criticism for providing healthcare only when a fighter is injured in a bout or while preparing for a scheduled bout.

Magraken also posted screenshots of other parts of the federal review relating to fighter safety. One part detailed the checks a ringside doctor is supposed to perform while checking for neurological damage. Another screenshot details the difference between a cutman and a ringside doctor who checks on a cut.

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UFC president Dana White on long-term healthcare for fighters

Dana White seemingly changed his stance on long-term heathcare for fighters. During an impromptu Q&A session back in June 2021, White was asked if he would ever provide full-time healthcare benefits to fighters:

"Soon"

The 53-year-old later turned back on his words, claiming to have "responded to the wrong guy."

Watch White's comments below:

While was asked about it once again during the UFC 263 post-fight presser. While he's all for fighter safety, lifelong healthcare for fighters is seemingly a bizarre idea for the 53-year-old:

"We’re always looking into making things better, safer, and whatever for the fighters. I don’t know about healthcare forever. Does anybody have a job where they have healthcare forever when they leave? I mean, that’s pretty f—ng crazy. I don’t think anybody does it."

Watch White's comments below (23:25):