Fight Night permanently down for the count
- posted: 13 Nov. 2007
- scrollopinion@byui.edu
In several YouTube videos, millions can see BYU-Idaho students throwing punches at each other. A few videos show actual knockout hits. Another shows a bloody lip pausing the fight. These off-campus events not only left parents worried, but BYU-I’s administration as well.
In response to these concerns, a student-led forum was held between the Student Representative Council and the leaders of Fight Night to determine the solution to this problem. They finally agreed to terminate the activity.
Those participating in the forum met prayerfully to reach an understanding. They decided together, showing cooperation and handling it well.
True, boxing is a sport participated in by many, including President Ezra Taft Benson, Elder L. Tom Perry and Elder David B. Haight. Nothing is wrong at all with the sport, as long as the people participating are well-trained.
As amateur fighters, the participants of Fight Night were severely lacking key rules. Amateurs fight as members of an organization or team and use proper head gear.
Boxing can be dangerous and lead to many injuries, but so can other high-contact sports such as football and hockey. Because Fight Night competitors didn’t follow rules, including the use of head gear, it can’t be considered a sport. The mission statement of the school encourages wholesome activities. According to some, Fight Night was such an activity, and the leaders made each participant hug one another after a fight.
However, a hug after the fight can’t disguise some negative aspects. Some of the posted YouTube videos included the name of BYU-I. Linking the school’s name with the unsafe activities could negatively affect the school’s image. Maintaining a good image for the school is important, which is one reason for the Honor Code. The Student Handbook says that any forms of entertainment that glorify violence should be avoided because they lack “an educational or uplifting purpose.”
Some of the leaders of Fight Night didn’t feel it was in direct violation of the Honor Code, but regardless, anything in question should be avoided. As BYU-I has been called a “Disciple Preparation Center,” good judgement must be exercised in all activities. Even with good intentions, good situations can quickly turn sour.
Luckily, no one was seriously injured, but with the lack of proper gear and training, it was only a matter of time before that changed. A few EMTs were available in case of emergency, but the possibility of serious injury or even death was still real.
Concession was made as safety, school image and Honor Code violation were discussed in the student-led forum. As the line is thin between approved BYU-I and off-campus activities, students need to remember they signed away their agency for such activities. 
