Amir Khan Backs New Welfare Inquiry Into Boxing

Amir Khan, one of Britain's most decorated boxers, is among those supporting the inquiry launched by the Global Fighters Association (GFA). British barrister Jonathan Caplan KC, who has been appointed to lead the inquiry, will comprehensively examine the safety, governance and treatment of boxers at every level of the sport.

Caplan said the inquiry will speak with athletes, coaches, physiotherapists, doctors, surgeons, referees, judges, promoters, regulatory bodies, management organisations and athletes' families. Caplan said the findings will be published with wide-ranging recommendations.

Caplan said such a review is overdue. In recent years, similar inquiries have been carried out into concussion in sport and abuse allegations in British gymnastics. In his view, combat sports deserve the same level of detailed scrutiny.

The GFA aims to become the first union for boxers and other combat sports participants. The association wants to be a common voice for everyone, from amateurs training in local gyms to professionals who earn their living from the sport.

Although the biggest stars of combat sports bring in substantial earnings, behind names such as Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury, hundreds of athletes are trying to make a living under difficult conditions. Issues the inquiry plans to address include the welfare, financial security and long-term health of these athletes.