The first major step was taken by one independent group determined to level the playing field.  

Organizers behind the Global Fighters’ Association (GFA) revealed its plans for a 12-month program of roundtable discussions, focused on improving key aspects in combat sports.

Experts have been recruited to lead the open dialogue events, regardless of affiliation. The first event is due to launch in May, and will focus on the quality of judging in professional bouts. 

Ringside officiating has come under fire, in particular the lack of transparency and consistency in scoring. A full independent review will be commissioned by the GFA, who will take a deep dive into fight outcomes, the immediate and long-term ramifications of such decisions and the path for improvement.  

"These roundtables are a chance to bring together the right people with the right level of experience, to ask and answer the hardest, most important questions. We believe these reports will help bring more protection for fighters, more transparency for the fans and will help grow the sport.”

The roundtables will be led and reported on by independent legal professionals with experience in athlete welfare, governance, and sport regulation. Participants will include former fighters of all levels and disciplines, judges, referees, coaches, promoters, broadcasters, gym owners, medical professionals, and financial and legal experts.

“Boxing and combat sport have huge global potential, but the foundations have to be right," cautioned noted broadcaster Nick Peet, who co-founded the organization along with Smith. "This isn’t about pointing fingers; it’s about creating space for proper reform, rooted in lived experience and expert knowledge.”

Topics for discussion in the inaugural roundtables will include:

·       Transparency and consistency in professional bout scoring

·       Qualifications, accountability, and training for judges

·       Standards for post-fight review procedures

·       Potential models for structured scoring reviews

GFA was launched earlier in the year, with the primary goal to create a level playing field for combat sports athletes.

Jake Donovan is an award-winning journalist who served as a senior writer for BoxingScene from 2007-2024, and news editor for the final nine years of his first tour. He was also the lead writer for The Ring before his decision to return home. Follow Jake on X and Instagram.