Dubai-based combat sports promotion M2MMA is advancing its mission to establish stronger safety protocols in professional fighting as scrutiny around head injury management intensifies across contact sports globally. The shift comes following a serious incident involving Tongan rugby international Eli Katoa, who underwent emergency brain surgery in November 2024 after sustaining multiple head impacts during a single match, highlighting the need for consistent medical oversight in high-impact athletics.
Katoa’s case presents a warning for combat sports specifically. During warm-ups before a Pacific Championships match against New Zealand, the 25-year-old Melbourne Storm forward collided with teammate Lehi Hopoate, resulting in a significant impact to the head.