The first-ever slap fighting competition in Scotland has been canceled due to health concerns. BritSlap/SlapFight UK had planned to hold the event at Glasgow University Union (GUU) on Saturday as part of a larger weightlifting meet. However, a leading brain injury expert warned that the competition posed a high risk of concussion and should not proceed.
A GUU spokesperson confirmed that the event was canceled following discussions with the organizers.
Slap fighting, which originated in Russia, has gained popularity in Eastern Europe and the U.S. through social media. Unlike combat sports such as boxing, MMA, and Muay Thai, where participants can defend themselves, slap fighting involves competitors exchanging open-handed strikes to the head without any defense. Winners are determined by knockout, points, or a stoppage by a medic or referee.
Dr. Willie Stewart, a neuroscientist at the university, urged participants not to risk their brain health. He highlighted Glasgow University’s extensive research on traumatic brain injuries and their long-term impact on athletes.
He told Scotland News: “The university’s research has clearly shown that brain injuries should never be taken lightly or promoted as a sport. It is unthinkable that a university student union would host such an event.”
Dr. Stewart suggested that organizers educate themselves on brain injury consequences rather than encouraging a dangerous sport.
A 2023 University of Pittsburgh study on slap fighting found a high concussion risk. Researchers analyzed 78 matches and observed that over half of the participants exhibited signs of concussion. Lead author Dr. Raj Swaroop Lavadi noted that the absence of defense intensified the impact of each strike and called for greater transparency regarding the sport’s risks.
GUU had previously stated it was satisfied with safety measures, but a Friday statement confirmed the slap fighting segment had been removed from the weightlifting event.
The University of Glasgow emphasized that it did not endorse or support the competition. A spokesperson cited research evidence, calling the sport dangerous and stating that neither the university nor GUU should be associated with it.
Both GUU and SlapFight UK have been contacted for further comments.
