Rory MacDonald Advises UFC After Eye Poke Incidents at UFC 252

Former UFC fighter Rory MacDonald has revealed some interesting news about potential changes in the UFC. MacDonald said that the promotion is looking to restructure their gloves, to improve fighter safety.

The main issue surrounding MMA gloves is the number of eye-pokes that can take place. Also, due to the force that fighters generate, these pokes could cause life-long injuries.

Rory MacDonald reveals proposed UFC glove changes

Ocular injuries are a staple to combat sports, with several fighters suffering from permanent eye damage due to these incidents.

“@UFC, changing the glove design to help curve the finger slightly inward, would help decrease the number of eye pokes and help keep the fighters safe.” wrote MacDonald on Twitter.

This is a step in the right direction for the promotion, given the frequent occurrence of such incidents.

The most recent report of eye-poke related injuries was during the final edition of the trilogy bout between Daniel Cormier and Stipe Miocic.

DC was poked so hard in his left eye that he couldn’t see out of it for some time and was rushed to receive medical attention.

Interestingly, Stipe Miocic suffered a similar injury at the hands of DC, as he required eye surgery, which then delayed the trilogy bout for quite some time.

This is just one of the many injuries that have been reported in the UFC. Permanent eye damage is a real concern as it could potentially stop fighters from ever competing again.

Perhaps this change is long overdue, as it has been ignored in the past. A simple redesign in the gloves can potentially save multiple careers.

One’s future in the world of combat sports remains uncertain at all times due to the physical nature of the sport. Thus, it is the duty of every promotion to ensure the safety of their fighters.

What are your thoughts on the proposed redesign? Let us know in the comments below!