Ex-NRL forward Kevin Proctor was knocked out by social media influencer Jordan Simi during a controversial ‘run it straight’ event in Dubai. The event, which took place overnight, has sparked widespread concern due to its risky nature.
The ‘run it straight’ trend involves participants charging directly at each other, mimicking a rugby-style collision. In footage circulating on social media, the former Kiwi international collided with his ball-carrying opponent at high speed, resulting in a brutal knockout. Proctor, 36, was left writhing on the ground, prompting immediate concern from organizers and spectators.
Medics rushed to assist as Proctor’s arms and legs went stiff. The shocking scene prompted reactions from social media users, with one user exclaiming,
‘What did I just watch!’
Another user described the event as
‘Absolutely f**king disgusting,’
while a third hoped for Proctor’s recovery, saying,
‘Hope Proctor is okay after that knockout.’
The Rise and Risks of ‘Run It Straight’
The ‘run it straight’ trend has gained popularity on social media, with official competitions emerging in Sydney and New Zealand. However, the trend has drawn criticism for its dangerous nature. The collision game turned deadly last month when New Zealand teenager Ryan Satterthwaite tragically lost his life attempting the challenge.
RUNIT event organizers offer big cash prizes and claim to have medical staff at events. However, trauma clinicians remain skeptical. Neuroscientist Dr. Helen Murray labeled 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, criticized the trend as
‘a step backwards.’
She added,
‘This is a reckless and dangerous spectacle. The science is clear – repeated head impacts increase the risk of long-term brain damage.’
Australian neurologist Dr. Alan Pearce echoed these sentiments, calling the event
‘insanity.’
He noted,
‘You’re removing the skill and strategy and replacing it with blunt force.’
Kevin Proctor’s Troubled Past
Proctor, who played 283 NRL games for the Titans and Storm, was sacked in 2022 following the ‘vape-gate’ incident. He posted a video of himself vaping in the CommBank Stadium toilets during a game, violating stadium policies. The Titans fined him $15,000 and subsequently dismissed him, labeling his actions as ‘dumb.’
Proctor’s career has been marred by several indiscretions. In 2017, he was fined $20,000 and banned for four games by the Titans after allegedly purchasing and consuming cocaine with teammate Jesse Bromwich. Proctor claimed he couldn’t remember 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, resulting in a four-match suspension. Despite denying the charge, the evidence was compelling enough for the NRL match review committee to take action.
The Future of ‘Run It Straight’ Events
The emergence of ‘run it straight’ events in Australia and New Zealand, with cash prizes on offer, has been met with both fascination and criticism. Recently, some events have been postponed or canceled due to safety concerns.
As the debate continues, the question remains whether the thrill and potential financial rewards of these events justify the risks involved. Experts like Dr. Murray and Professor Hume continue to advocate for stricter regulations and awareness of the dangers associated with such high-impact activities.
Meanwhile, Proctor’s incident in Dubai serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of these events. As the sports world watches closely, the future of ‘run it straight’ competitions hangs in the balance, with safety and participant well-being at the forefront of ongoing discussions.
