Former NRL star Kevin Proctor was brutally knocked out by social media influencer Jordan Simi during a controversial ‘run it straight’ event held in Dubai overnight. The spectacle, which has gained notoriety for its dangerous nature, involves participants charging directly at each other to mimic rugby-style collisions.
Footage circulating on social media shows the former Kiwi international colliding with his opponent at high speed, resulting in Proctor being flattened and left writhing on the ground. The 36-year-old’s arms and legs went stiff, prompting immediate concern from both organizers and spectators alike. Medics rushed to assist him as the unsettling scene unfolded.
The ‘run it straight’ trend has seen a surge in popularity on social media, with official competitions emerging in cities like Sydney and across New Zealand. However, it has drawn significant criticism for the inherent risks involved. The game turned deadly last month when New Zealand teenager Ryan Satterthwaite tragically lost his life attempting the challenge.
Expert Opinions and Safety Concerns
Despite assurances from RUNIT event organizers about the presence of medical staff and the offering of substantial cash prizes, health experts are not convinced of the safety measures in place. Neuroscientist Dr. Helen Murray has openly criticized the event, stating,
‘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.’
Similarly, Professor Patria Hume, an expert in sports science and injury prevention, described the trend as ‘a step backwards.’ She emphasized the dangers associated with repeated head impacts, noting,
‘This is a reckless and dangerous spectacle. The science is clear – repeated head impacts increase risk of long-term brain damage.’
Australian neurologist Dr. Alan Pearce echoed these sentiments, calling the event ‘insanity.’ He criticized the lack of skill and strategy, replaced by sheer blunt force.
Kevin Proctor’s Controversial Past
Kevin Proctor, who played 283 NRL games for the Titans and Storm, has had his share 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. Vaping is prohibited in the stadium, and the Titans fined him $15,000 before terminating his contract.
Proctor’s history of indiscretions includes a 2017 incident where he was fined $20,000 and banned for four games after allegedly purchasing and consuming cocaine with fellow player Jesse Bromwich. He was also found guilty of biting Shaun Johnson during his 250th NRL appearance in 2020, resulting in a four-match suspension.
The Future of ‘Run It Straight’ Events
With events popping up in Australia and New Zealand, offering cash prizes, the ‘run it straight’ trend continues to attract participants despite the risks. However, recent weeks have seen several events postponed or canceled, possibly in response to growing safety concerns and public scrutiny.
As the debate over the safety and ethics of these events continues, it remains to be seen whether stricter regulations will be implemented or if the trend will fizzle out due to its controversial nature. For now, the incident involving Kevin Proctor serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with such high-impact activities.
