Physical Danger

Physical Danger

Beware, young hero, for the path is fraught with peril. If you're afraid of getting hurt, we're not saying you have to become an accountant...but you probably don't want to literally fight for a living. In the less-regulated, amateur/semi-pro fighting rings, serious injuries are commonplace. Quality medical care is also not guaranteed. Your opponents will be extremely fierce and hungry for victory. No one is ever going to go easy on you.

"Repeated blunt force trauma to the head" is a phrase the doctor might use when warning you about the risk of permanent brain damage from working in this field. Unfortunately, all you can hear is that ringing in your ears. Most people are aware of the controversy centered on brain injuries in professional football, but few think about the same risks in professional fighters. Mostly because they assume that the fighters understand and respect the danger of getting punched in the head for a living.

There is no question about it: This is one of the most dangerous jobs out there. Even if you are the best in the biz, the toll on your body and mind will be no joking matter. In addition, it's almost a guarantee that life after retirement will be a challenge. Most professional boxers spring for exceptional medical care, but there is no cure for the kind of wear and tear that this career path puts on a body. Don't say we didn't warn you.