It's a tough one played rugby (both codes), I loved playing but the whole CTE issue has got me worried. I know I've had at least 7 concussions, and been hit with some serious tackles during my time. Once the CTE rabbit was out of the hat, all contact sports come under the microscope. The NFL have tried to limit helmet to helmet collisions, but when you are hit to the ground with force l, your brain still moves around violently. I've no answers but there's now been too many deaths linked to CTE, ranging from alzheimer's to murder suicide.
All professionals have to undertake at least one medical a year to be granted a "pro licence". All professional bouts have a full medical team knocking around including a Dr and paramedics. Most will have an ambulance on call.. Most Amateur clubs follow England Boxing guidelines, have regular check ups from a doctor and the coaches all have to go through a number of qualifications. Most have advanced first aid training. A good club will ensure that during any sparring sessions both pugilists are wearing head gear, gum shields and importantly proper gloves of 14/16oz depending on gender/age. In a bout the ref will step in now if you cant throw back rather than waiting for the inevitable KO. Infact, they take more precautions to prevent serious injury in a combat sport than they do at grass roots football.