‘It’s safe’ – Amid national outrage over Dana White, UFC referee assures ‘safety measures’ in controversial powerslap league will improve – EssentiallySports

Dana White has been highly successful in the UFC’s 30 years of existence. Earlier this year, he introduced another fighting promotion, Power Slap (Slap League). There was significant criticism and concerns about combatant health regarding White’s new promotion. However, veteran UFC referee Mark Smith argued that the sport is safer than other martial arts.

Referee Mark Smith, a former member of the United States Air Force Thunderbirds, has officiated over 100 fights in the Octagon. His experience has led him to open up about his concerns for athlete safety.

Mark Smith says Dana White’s powerslap is safe

At the 15th World MMA Awards, Mark Smith spoke to the media about his views on the safety of powerslaps. He dismissed claims about the dangers of the sport, stating that slapping leagues are much safer than other combat sports such as mixed martial arts and boxing.

“It’s safe. For a three-round match, or maybe a five-round match and a mixed martial arts match or a boxing match, you limit this because the potential damage to the head etc. can be greater. I intend on doing it,” said Mark Smith.

The veteran referee also mentioned that those who officiate Powerslap matches work closely with the fighters to assess the level of injury sustained and prevent it from escalating.

“We’re also going to be very close to the fighter to assess potential injuries and honestly stop it before it gets to that point,” Mark Smith added. He also shared his initial thoughts when he first heard about Powerslap.

Smith’s first thoughts on UFC CEO’s new slapping martial arts promotion

The veteran UFC referee said he didn’t hesitate much when the powerslap was first announced. Instead, he was concerned about ensuring that combatants had the necessary support and procedures in place for their safety.

Nevertheless, power slap is still in its early stages, and efforts are being made to make the sport safer for athletes. Additionally, officials plan to introduce new equipment for the fighters in the coming months.

Dana White once said that his initial reaction to a power slap was similar to his initial reaction to the UFC in the 1990s. However, it is expected that Power Slap will undergo similar developments to appeal to a broader audience than the UFC.

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