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In the lead-up to a charity kickboxing match, 15-year-old Alex Eastwood received a kiss from his father, Stephen Eastwood, who expressed his love for his son. Little did Stephen know that this would be their last interaction as champion kickboxer Alex collapsed after his final bout and tragically passed away in the hospital three days later. Subsequently, the Eastwood family embarked on a mission for reform in honor of Alex’s memory.
During the inquest at Bolton Coroner’s Court, it was determined by Michael Pemberton, assistant coroner for Manchester West, that Alex’s demise was a result of misadventure. The lack of awareness regarding the risks associated with children engaging in combat sports was emphasized, labeling the planning and risk assessment for the fatal bout as “sub-optimal.” Alex’s passion for kickboxing ignited at the age of nine when he began training at Hurricane Combat and Fitness in Liverpool, leading to a rapid ascent in the sport.
Participating in a charity fundraiser fight at TKMA Gym in Platt Bridge, Wigan, Alex found himself in an unsanctioned match that resulted in tragedy when he collapsed during the third round of the “light contact” kickboxing bout against a 17-year-old opponent. Stephen Eastwood recounted the harrowing experience, describing how his son’s behavior seemed off before the heartbreaking incident unfolded. Alex’s journey sadly concluded with a devastating diagnosis of catastrophic brain damage and bleeding.
In response to the lack of regulatory guidance for child combat sports, the Eastwood family has called for change to prevent such tragedies in the future. With a plea for governmental intervention to enforce national protections for children’s combat sports, the family aims to ensure the safety and well-being of young participants. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy acknowledged the need for lessons to be learned and expressed a commitment to exploring ways to enhance the safety and welfare of children in martial arts
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