THE British Boxing Board of Control has issued safety guidelines ahead of a return to boxing in July.
It has been announced that all bouts will be held behind closed doors, with the referee, cornermen and officials to wear PPE at all times.
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Anthony Joshua’s fight against Kubrat Pulev had to be axed due to coronavirusCredit: Reuters
Fighters are now banned from spitting while in the corner, making it difficult for those who have a mouth full of blood.
There will be no more than five fights in any card, with all boxers, trainers, officials and referees required to take Covid-19 tests 48 hours before the event.
They will then have to self-isolate in a hotel as they wait to find out their results, and should they test negative, they will be transported to the venue wearing Personal Protective masks as well as eye protection.
Once inside the venue, only the PPE of the boxers can be removed.
Another safety measure put in place will be that a fighter can only have only have two members of his corner alongside them.
The BBBofC have also stated that championship bouts will initially not be considered, though they add that they will review this at a later date.
All those attending the event – including fighters, promoters and ambulance staff – will have to fill out a pre-fight medical questionnaire.
They state that anyone who is over the age of 70, those with heart conditions, diabetes, chronic lung disease and people that are seriously overweight, should not attend the event.
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Promoter Eddie Hearn took to Twitter to comment on the safety measures, as he tweeted: “Just read the BBBofC guidelines to bring boxing back.
“Huge (but mostly sensible) barriers to overcome to make it happen but when the time comes we will be ready.”
It was announced last week how boxing chiefs were targeting a July return, with the BBBofC listening to government advice in their quest for the sport to resume.
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Source: Boxing - thesun.co.uk
