A detailed review into the incident at the charity boxing event in Christchurch that left competitor Kain Parsons fighting for his life is underway, the organisers have said.
With Mr Parsons in intensive care, event promoter Callam Mitchell said in a statement that Fight for Christchurch operated under regulations governing corporate boxing.
The event was also sanctioned by The New Zealand Professional Boxing Association (NZPBA).
"Our thoughts remain with Kain and his family. I can confirm that in addition to the 12-week training programme for this event, Kain had taken up boxing for fitness reasons about 18 months ago," he said.
"He’d attended at least one Fight For Christchurch event and was very enthusiastic at the prospect of taking part and helping raise money for charity."
Head gear was optional for the event, in line with NZPBA, Mr Mitchell said.
He added that the event is officiated by referees and judges from the NZPBA, all of whom have extensive experience in boxing, with contenders given two medical examinations, including one the day prior to their fight.
"Given many contenders have no previous boxing experience, they are selected and matched based on a number of factors including their size, height, weight, previous experience if any, and any other sporting history."
"We have four reputable boxing gyms responsible for training the contenders and we take often take input from them regarding contender and matchup suitability."
"We also note that commentary by experts in media during the past 24 hours illustrates varying opinions on the matter. Some say it should be mandatory, while others say headgear prevents fighters from feeling the full impact of blows and therefore are more likely to suffer concussion."
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