THE LAW AND BOXING: A PARADOX

Abstract

This paper will examine the sport of boxing in the context of Queensland, Australia. An examination of statute and common law shows that people cannot consent to Grievous Bodily Harm or death. Despite this, boxing matches continue to cause Grievous Bodily Harm and death to the boxers, with no consequences imposed for the perpetrator. Therein lies the paradox. There are no statutory exclusions for boxing, yet the Queensland criminal system does not exercise its jurisdiction when these serious injuries occur. Overall, the paper suggests that the detriments of boxing far outweigh the benefits, and as such, the sport should be banned. Alternatively, potential reforms are suggested, which at the very least could reduce the amount of serious injuries that occur as a result of boxing matches.