Strickland revealed on social media that he was involved in an accident while travelling at around 60mph and suffered head injuries, he later acknowledged the importance of wearing a helmet.
The accident took place in the US, and while helmets are not generally legally required when ‘off-roading’ in the UK, we urge people to wear appropriate protective headgear whenever there is a risk of head injury.
However, we remain concerned by Strickland's subsequent comments suggesting he was "a little concussed" and wanted to return to sparring the following day.
Luke Griggs, Chief Executive of Headway UK, said:
"Sean Strickland deserves credit for openly acknowledging that not wearing a helmet was a mistake. Too often people see protective equipment as optional, but when it comes to brain injury, prevention is always better than cure.
“What is alarming though, is his suggestion that he may have suffered concussion but was considering returning to sparring almost immediately. Concussion is often misunderstood as a minor injury, but there is no such thing as a 'mild' brain injury. The effects can last for weeks, months and sometimes years.”
“Protocols exist for a reason. They are there to prevent those who have or may have sustained a concussion from further, lasting damage to their brain.
“Such comments demonstrate how far we still have to go to educate everyone in sport of the dangers of concussion and the importance of protecting brain health.
“For that to happen, we need the support not just of authorities, but also high-profile sportspeople who must set the example for others to follow.”
Headway UK continues to encourage anyone involved in sport or recreational activities to learn the signs and symptoms of concussion and to prioritise their long-term brain health.
More information and resources can be found on our concussion page.
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