The Association of Ringside Physicians have reacted with concern to news that Floyd Mayweather and Conor McGregor are looking to use 8oz boxing gloves, as opposed to the customary 10oz boxing gloves, for their junior-middleweight (154lbs) boxing match on August 26 in Las Vegas.
The idea to box in the smaller gloves – typically used only in weight classes below lightweight (135lbs) – was first floated by McGregor, then apparently agreed to by Mayweather, and reports now suggest the Nevada State Athletic Commission might be receptive to it, too.
This has created a talking point, one of many ahead of the fight, and McGregor has gone so far as to change his prediction from a fourth round knockout to a second round knockout in light of the potential glove alteration.
It has also, however, disturbed members of the Association of Ringside Physicians, and this morning (August 15), Dr. Raymond M. Monsell, Chair of the Board of Directors, issued the following statement:
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 regulations to be over-ruled. To do so would also set a precedent for future bouts.
Finally, some common sense. It has been as elusive as Mayweather’s boxing style throughout the build-up to MayMac, but now, just ten days out, it’s desperately needed.
