A look into the challenges and sacrifices of professional fighters who battle for glory while risking their lives.
There are countless ways to injure yourself from throwing a punch—perhaps as many as there are months in a year. Chances are, you wouldn’t consider the potential injuries before launching a fist at something (or someone). As long as your fist makes an impact, that’s all that counts, right? Maybe if the other party deserves it. But if you’re a professional fighter, it’s far more complex.
Professional fighting is a physically demanding sport that involves more than simply throwing punches; it’s about strategy and understanding the consequences of each strike. Will it score you points, or could it end your career—or even your life? The latter is a risk all professional fighters work hard to avoid, but it requires more than just guts and skill to navigate the dangerous stakes involved.
The Eye of the Tiger
Standing at 178cm, 34-year-old professional wrestler The Eurasian Dragon, whose real name is Kenneth Thexeira, embodies the fierce spirit of combat sports. Despite his friendly demeanor off-stage, he emphasizes the very real pain of being a professional wrestler.
Wrestling combines flashy theatrics with rugged combat, showcasing grand moves (known as “finishers”) like the Tombstone Piledriver and the Buckshot Lariat. While results are predetermined and storylines crafted for entertainment, the physicality of the fights is genuine. The ring isn’t a padded playground; even restrained blows can inflict significant pain. Kenneth shares, “I’ve seen people tear their ACLs or suffer shoulder separations due to improper falls.” Injuries are simply part and parcel of being a professional fighter.
Thrill of the Fight
Professional fighters rely on their bodies for a living, adhering to an unspoken rule: “Whatever can go wrong will go wrong.” This perspective drives them to maintain rigorous health and training regimens, ensuring they are physically prepared for the demands of their sport. Benedict Ang, a 26-year-old MMA fighter known as ‘The Saiyan’, likens his matches to a legalised street fight, where everything goes except for the referee’s oversight.
Unlike wrestling, where damage is minimized, MMA focuses on genuinely hurting the opponent. Fighters must hone their offensive and defensive skills while reading the flow of the match to avoid unnecessary hits. Despite facing numerous injuries, both Kenneth and Benedict consider themselves fortunate to have avoided severe harm. Benedict’s worst injury, a torn meniscus from training, required platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections for recovery.
Beyond the Limit
For Amanda Chan, a 33-year-old professional boxer, injuries are a constant companion. Despite suffering from eye floaters and a painful hand injury, she remains undeterred. Preparing for the prestigious WBC Asia Champion title fight, Amanda reflects on the sacrifices required in her pursuit of excellence.
“Accidents happen all the time,” she reassures, highlighting the necessity of pushing through the pain for the fleeting moments of glory in the ring. With most fighters retiring in their 40s, the pressure to maximize their careers intensifies. Amanda clinched her title as WBC Asia Champion, driven by a determination to make every moment count.
The Struggle for Recognition
Despite their achievements, professional fighters in Singapore often juggle day jobs to supplement their income. Kenneth works in interior design, Amanda coaches boxing, and Benedict trains clients. Their earnings from fights—usually just four to eight appearances annually—aren’t enough to sustain them financially.
This lack of support extends to the lion dance community, where the same sacrifices are made for cultural expression and representation. As Marcus, head coach of the Yiwei Athletic Association, puts it, “Injuries are just part of the game.”
A Need for Comprehensive Support
Frequent doctor visits and comprehensive insurance coverage are vital for fighters. Each fighter has invested in accident plans and hospitalisation coverage, ensuring they can seek immediate treatment when needed. Amanda and Benedict have both experienced hefty medical bills, but their insurance has helped cover costs, allowing them to focus on recovery rather than finances.
While public healthcare is robust, many fighters prefer private care for quicker treatment. Amanda recalls rushing to Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital for food poisoning, emphasizing her desire for immediate care when vulnerable.
A Family Affair
Kenneth, who recently got married, expresses his commitment to his family. Professional fighting remains risky, but he prioritizes safety. “At the end of the day, I just want to walk home to my family and wake up to greet them the next morning,” he says.
Ultimately, professional fighters demonstrate incredible resilience and dedication, balancing the demands of their sport with personal lives and family commitments. They fight not only for glory in the ring but also for the stability and support of their loved ones outside of it. As they navigate the challenges of their careers, the pursuit of excellence remains a constant motivation, even in the face of adversity.
