Section 8: Safety Considerations
Pre-Fight Medical Requirements
All participants must submit the following and cannot compete unless cleared by the supervising physician:
- Blood count and lab results showing the participant is not infected with HIV or hepatitis, performed no earlier than 30 days before license submission
- Physical exam by a licensed physician at least 7 days before the first match in the calendar year
- Dilated ophthalmologic eye examination at least 7 days before the first match of the calendar year
- Brain MRI scan within the preceding 5 years
- Cerebral magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) within the preceding 5 years
- Female participants must provide a negative pregnancy test no later than 10 days before the match
Event Medical Staff
The Promoter must ensure the following safety personnel and resources are in place at each event:
- Supervising physician plus one additional physician or licensed physician assistant
- Three emergency medical technicians (EMTs)
- Three ambulances
- A suture station
- At least one local hospital arrangement
Mandatory Rest Periods
Participants must observe minimum rest periods between matches:
- 1-3 round match: Minimum 6 days before next match
- 4-6 round match: Minimum 8 days before next match
- 7+ round match: Minimum 10 days before next match
Injury During Competition
An injury to one hand or arm does not disqualify a participant if they agree to use their uninjured hand or arm for the remainder of the match. The supervising physician has the authority to recommend stoppage at any time if a participant's health is at risk.
Stage Catchers
At least two stage catchers must be present on the Power Slap Stage for every match. Their primary function is to use their best efforts to limit the impact of a participant's head against the stage surface and to prevent participants from falling off the stage. This is a critical safety feature unique to Power Slap competition.
Wagering Prohibition
Power Slap participants are strictly prohibited from placing any wagers (directly or through a third party) on any Power Slap match, including wagers on themselves. These prohibitions extend to relatives, coaches, managers, medical staff, and anyone with access to non-public participant information. Participants must immediately report any known wagering violations to Power Slap. Match fixing, collusion, or attempting to influence match results based on anything other than their merits is strictly prohibited. Violations may result in disciplinary action including termination.