Ex-NRL forward Kevin Proctor was knocked out by social media influencer Jordan Simi during a controversial ‘run it straight’ event in Dubai. This event, which took place overnight, has sparked intense debate due to its inherently dangerous nature.
The ‘run it straight’ trend involves participants charging directly at each other, mimicking a rugby-style collision. In a viral video circulating on social media, the former Kiwi international collided with his opponent at high speed, resulting in a brutal knockout. Proctor was left on the ground, prompting immediate concern from both organizers and spectators.
The 36-year-old’s arms and legs went stiff as medics rushed to his aid. The incident has drawn significant attention online, with one user exclaiming,
‘What did I just watch!’
Another commented,
‘Absolutely f**king disgusting,’
while a third added,
‘Hope Proctor is okay after that knockout.’
The Rise and Risks of ‘Run It Straight’
This trend has gained popularity on social media, with official competitions emerging in cities like Sydney and Auckland. However, it has also attracted criticism for its potential to cause serious injuries. The collision game turned deadly last month when New Zealand teenager Ryan Satterthwaite tragically lost his life while attempting the challenge.
RUNIT event organizers, who offer substantial cash prizes, claim to have medical staff present at events. However, trauma clinicians remain skeptical. Neuroscientist Dr. Helen Murray has called the event an unacceptable risk, 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.’
Professor Patria Hume, an expert in sports science and injury prevention, echoed these concerns, describing the sport as
‘a step backwards.’
She emphasized that
‘The science is clear – repeated head impacts increase risk of long-term brain damage.’
Australian neurologist Dr. Alan Pearce also criticized the event, saying,
‘It’s insanity. You’re removing the skill and strategy and replacing it with blunt force.’
Kevin Proctor’s Controversial Past
Kevin Proctor, who played 283 NRL games for the Titans and Storm, has been no stranger to controversy. 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 and around the stadium, and his actions were deemed ‘dumb’ by the Titans, resulting in a $15,000 fine and his subsequent dismissal.
Proctor’s history of indiscretions in rugby league includes a $20,000 fine and a four-game suspension in 2017 after allegedly purchasing and consuming cocaine with Jesse Bromwich. At the time, Proctor claimed he couldn’t remember most of the evening in question and was stood down as the club’s co-captain.
In 2020, Proctor was found guilty of biting Shaun Johnson during his 250th NRL appearance, leading to a four-match suspension. Despite his defense, the NRL match review committee upheld the charge based on photographic evidence.
Implications and Future of the Trend
The ‘run it straight’ trend continues to gain traction, with events popping up in Australia and New Zealand. However, recent incidents have led to postponements and cancellations, as the dangerous nature of the challenge becomes more apparent.
Experts warn that without significant changes to ensure participant safety, the trend could result in further tragedies. As the debate over the event’s safety intensifies, it remains to be seen whether organizers will implement stricter regulations or if authorities will intervene to prevent future incidents.
For Kevin Proctor, this latest incident adds another chapter to his tumultuous career, raising questions about the risks athletes are willing to take in pursuit of fame and fortune. As the conversation around player safety continues, the sports community must grapple with the balance between entertainment and well-being.
