PITTSBURGH, PA — The Spine Computational Outcomes Learning Institute (SCOLI) at the University of Pittsburgh Department of Neurological Surgery announced today that its groundbreaking research on the neurological impacts of slap fighting has been featured in a comprehensive article published by The Telegraph.

The article, titled “Slap fighting: The barbaric combat sport built for TikTok,” published on May 18, 2025, examines the emerging combat sport that has gained popularity through social media platforms while raising significant concerns about neurological safety.

SCOLI’s multidisciplinary team conducted a comprehensive assessment of the neurological impacts associated with slap fighting competitions. The University of Pittsburgh study found that more than half of participants showed visible signs of concussion, significantly higher than rates reported in traditional boxing.

Key Research Findings

The Pittsburgh study, led by Dr. Raj Lavadi with Dr. Nitin Agarwal as senior author, observed 78 fights and identified several concerning aspects:

• More than half of participants showed visible signs of concussion
• Clear symptoms included decreased motor skills, blank or vacant stares, and slowness in getting up
• Inadequate recovery time between impacts (less than one minute in many cases)
• Significantly higher concussion rates compared to traditional boxing
• Complete absence of defensive elements, which researchers noted as particularly troubling

Public Health Implications

As slap fighting continues to gain popularity, particularly among younger demographics through social media platforms, SCOLI researchers emphasize the importance of understanding the potential long-term neurological consequences of participation.

About SCOLI

The Spine Computational Outcomes Learning Institute (SCOLI) at the University of Pittsburgh Department of Neurological Surgery is dedicated to improving neurological and spinal health through multidisciplinary research. Directed by Dr. Nitin Agarwal, SCOLI unites experts from neurosurgery, engineering, rehabilitation medicine, and pain management to address complex neurological disorders through innovation and evidence-based approaches.