Alberta is considering new provincial oversight of combative sports in response to a fatality inquiry into the 2017 death of former mixed martial artist and professional boxer Timothy Hague.
Tourism and Sport Minister Joseph Schow said the government is reviewing 14 recommendations outlined in a report by Justice C.J. Sharpe, which called for increased safety measures and potential provincial regulation of the sport. Currently, combative sports in Alberta are sanctioned by municipal commissions.
“Justice Sharpe recommends the establishment of provincial oversight of combative sport events, with the province obtaining sole authority to sanction such events,” Schow said in a statement. “Together with relevant ministries and Alberta’s combative sport partners, we’re exploring how the Government of Alberta can most effectively be involved in the promotion of best practices, reduction of unnecessary risks and the application of safety measures.”
Hague, 34, died in June 2017 from brain injuries sustained during a boxing match in Edmonton. The inquiry into his death found that gaps in regulation and inconsistent medical protocols may have contributed to his injuries going undetected.
Among the recommendations in the inquiry report are standardized suspension periods across all combative sports, mandatory annual training for referees on head injuries and stricter protocols to prevent athletes from competing if they show signs of concussion. Schow said these recommendations have been accepted “in principle” but their implementation will depend on the province’s future role in regulating the sport.
“Our government is committed to ensuring all athletes – including combative sport athletes – are able to compete fairly and safely in the sports that they love,” he said.
