‘Street UFC’ becomes a phenomenon on the networks by showing clandestine fights between young people in public spaces

Summary
Clandestine fighting in public spaces in the North Zone of São Paulo spread to other Brazilian states. The practice does not constitute a crime, however, if there is an offense to physical integrity, a fine may be charged with a prison sentence of three months to one year.

Clandestine fights in public spaces in the North Zone of São Paulo have become a dangerous trend among teenagers. With boxing gloves in their hands in the middle of an improvised “ring”, young people face each other with a single objective: to see who falls first.

The ‘confrontations’ usually take place at night in spaces such as squares and gas stations, according to a newspaper report The globe. Although they occur more frequently in the capital of the state of São Paulo, the fights have already spread to other states in Brazil and are also present in the North and Northeast regions.

There, no one has technique or knowledge in martial arts. To participate in the event, simply register and go through a draw carried out by the fight organizers. The practice does not fall under the Brazilian criminal code due to the consent of both parties.

However, if one of those involved feels their physical integrity is compromised, they can go to a police station and open a police report.

The conditions of these events are precarious and, as they are not a “fight” with rules and professional organizations, if one of those involved feels their physical integrity is harmed, the action can be considered a street fight and configured as a crime according to with Article 129 of the Penal Code, which says that it is a crime to offend the bodily integrity or health of another person. If charged, those involved could face a prison sentence of three months to one year.

Source: Redação Terra