Mixed martial arts has been growing in popularity the last few years but after an 18-year-old fighter from Alberta collapsed in the ring Friday, concerns over the dangers of the sport are being raised.
Fort McMurray native, Dean Lewis was at a Winnipeg mixed martial arts fight last Friday and received serious injuries in the ring. Lewis suffered a shattered nose and internal bleeding.
Lewis's trainer told CTV everything was done by the book. The safety regulations call for a fight to end if a fighter can no longer defend himself, or if there is a severe injury.
Everyone that seen the fight, said there was no point when Dean was not able to defend himself, Dean would get hit a couple times and Dean would get right back and hit back," said Sandy Bowman.
Since 2002 the sport has grown immensely in popularity, starting with only four local shows and one promoter. This year, 18 shows are schedule through five promoters.
And with the popularity comes many inexperienced fighter getting into the ring, according to one local trainer
"He trained with me for months, one or two months, he hadn't actually sparred and he came and showed he had a fight to fight in a local M.M.A competition," said Michael Woodford with Edmonton Mixed Martial Arts.
Another trainer said M.M.A needs an amateur league to prevent that from happening.
"You look at hockey, they start as little kids and work all the way up, and that's what we need for M.M.A, we need a lot of amateur groups starting so they can build people up slowly," said Mike Yackulic.
Although Dean Lewis's injuries will take time to heal, his trainer expects him to return to the ring.
"It will take six months to heal, then he'll have to decide and check with doctors and stuff what he wants to do," said Bowman.
While the sport comes with many risks youngsters are still eager to take part.
"I am looking to do competitive stuff in the future, I want to do matches," said Joey Seward.
With files from Sonia Sunger
