Brain & Performance Centre Partners with UAE Athletic Commission to Enhance Boxer Safety
The Brain & Performance Centre, a DP World Company, has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the UAE Athletic Commission to strengthen athlete safety and enhance medical standards for professional boxing across the UAE.
Under the agreement, the Centre has been appointed as one of the Commission's approved medical service providers for comprehensive pre-fight brain health and performance assessments, complementing the mandatory medical clearance process required for professional boxing events.
Enhanced Brain Health Assessments for Professional Boxers
Professional boxers competing in sanctioned events across the UAE are already required to undergo a pre-fight MRI examination as part of mandatory medical clearance.
Through the new partnership, athletes will also have the option to undergo comprehensive brain health and performance assessments at The Brain & Performance Centre. These optional evaluations provide additional neurological and performance data to complement MRI findings, helping medical professionals make more informed decisions before competition.
The assessments use advanced technologies and scientifically validated protocols to evaluate several key indicators, including:
- Cognitive function
- Reaction time
- Balance
- Neurological performance
The programme is designed to provide a more complete understanding of an athlete's brain health while supporting proactive injury prevention and improved medical oversight.
Advancing Athlete Safety
Dr. Craig Cook, CEO of The Brain & Performance Centre, A DP World Company, said the partnership represents an important step in advancing brain health through science and innovation.
He noted that the collaboration expands access to proactive neurological assessments, allowing athletes to better understand their brain health and performance while supporting their wellbeing both inside and outside the boxing ring.
Strengthening Medical Standards in Boxing
Pat Fiacco, Boxing Commissioner at the UAE Athletic Commission, said the agreement reinforces the Commission's commitment to maintaining the highest international standards of athlete health and safety.
He added that making comprehensive brain health assessments available alongside mandatory MRI examinations will strengthen the integrity and professionalism of boxing in the UAE while establishing a benchmark for the sport's continued growth across the region.
Rollout Later This Year
The Brain & Performance Centre will begin offering the optional pre-fight assessments to professional boxers competing in sanctioned UAE events later this year.
Further details regarding athlete referrals, implementation procedures, and programme rollout are expected to be announced in the coming months.
The initiative reflects the UAE's ongoing efforts to enhance sports medicine, athlete welfare, and evidence-based medical practices across professional sporting competitions.
