Ex-NRL forward Kevin Proctor was knocked out by social media influencer Jordan Simi during a controversial ‘run it straight’ event in Dubai. This incident has sparked widespread concern and criticism over the safety of the event, which involves participants charging directly at each other to mimic a rugby-style collision.
The shocking footage, which quickly circulated on social media, shows the former Kiwi international colliding with his opponent at high speed. Proctor was left motionless on the ground, with his arms and legs stiff, prompting immediate concern from both organizers and spectators. Medics rushed to his aid as onlookers expressed their shock online.
‘What did I just watch!’ posted one X user. ‘Absolutely f**king disgusting,’ replied another. ‘Hope Proctor is okay after that knockout,’ said a third.
The Rise of a Dangerous Trend
The ‘run it straight’ trend has gained popularity on social media, with official competitions emerging in Sydney and New Zealand. However, it has drawn significant criticism for its dangerous nature. The event’s allure lies in its promise of big cash prizes, but the risks involved are substantial.
Last month, the trend turned deadly when New Zealand teenager Ryan Satterthwaite tragically lost his life attempting the challenge. This incident has intensified scrutiny on the event’s safety protocols and the responsibility of its organizers.
Expert Opinions on Safety Concerns
Despite assurances from RUNIT event organizers that medical staff are present at these events, experts remain unconvinced. Neuroscientist Dr. Helen Murray has labeled the event an unacceptable risk.
‘There is clearly a high risk of head injury in this event. There’s no attempt to reduce head acceleration, so I do not support it,’ Dr. Murray told the NZ Herald.
Professor Patria Hume, an expert in sports science and injury prevention, echoed these concerns, describing the sport as ‘a step backwards.’
‘This is a reckless and dangerous spectacle,’ she said. ‘The science is clear – repeated head impacts increase risk of long-term brain damage.’
Australian neurologist Dr. Alan Pearce added his voice to the criticism, calling the event ‘insanity.’
‘You’re removing the skill and strategy and replacing it with blunt force,’ he said.
Kevin Proctor’s Controversial Past
Proctor, who played 283 NRL games for the Gold Coast Titans and Melbourne Storm, has a history of controversies. In 2022, he was sacked following the ‘vape-gate’ incident, where he posted a video of himself vaping in the CommBank Stadium toilets during a game. The Titans fined him $15,000 and terminated his contract.
His career has been marred by other indiscretions, including a $20,000 fine and a four-game ban in 2017 for allegedly purchasing and consuming cocaine with fellow player Jesse Bromwich. In 2020, Proctor was suspended for four matches after being found guilty of biting Shaun Johnson during his 250th NRL appearance, a charge he denied but was unable to overturn.
Future of ‘Run It Straight’ Events
As the ‘run it straight’ trend continues to spread, with events popping up in Australia and New Zealand, the safety and ethics of these competitions are under increasing scrutiny. Recent weeks have seen several events postponed or canceled due to safety concerns.
The incident involving Proctor has reignited the debate over the responsibility of event organizers to ensure participant safety and the role of social media in promoting potentially dangerous activities. As the conversation continues, the future of ‘run it straight’ events remains uncertain.
For now, the focus remains on ensuring that participants like Proctor receive the necessary medical attention and support, while experts and authorities work to address the broader implications of this controversial trend.
