Clips from the event combining hockey and boxing have got fans talking

NHL: Dallas Stars at Colorado Avalanche

FANS are on the fence over a brutal sport that has been going viral.

Fights have been a part of hockey for a long time and often get rousing ovations from crowds.

Fights between players on the ice have long been a part of the National Hockey LeagueCredit: Reuters

But a league combining bare knuckle boxing with on-ice fights has left people divided.

The exact origin of the ice wars is not entirely clear.

But they took off this year when BKFC announced a new Ice Wars venture.

The first show under the promotion was held in June with an American team facing a Canadian side.

A clip from the Ice Wars 3 last weekend in Sunrise, Florida is doing the rounds on social media.

And fans aren’t convinced on the new format.

One said, “I love fighting in the league, how it has an impact on a game, how guys can stick up for each other, and it’s part of the game.

“I don’t think I’m a fan of dudes beating the s**t out of each other on ice for the sake of beating the s**t out of each other on ice. We’ll see tho.”

Another commented, “Fights in hockey have context. That’s what makes them compelling. This is just stupid.”

While a third posted, “I don’t really like this.”

And a fourth noted, “Fights in hockey serve a purpose.

“This exhibition is gratuitous and pointless.

“Clearly there is an audience for it, but it has limited appeal.”

But there were some who loved the idea of combining boxing with hockey fights.

One posted, “I went to one of these last minute with some buddies and it was so much fun.”

While a second said, “Hahaha I like it!!”

BKFC Ice Wars has four weight classes and a strict scoring criteria.

Judges are told to “evaluate the bout based on effective striking, effective aggressiveness and control of the fighting area.”

BKFC founder David Feldman said, “We’ve been watching what the team at Ice Wars has been building, and it’s been incredible to see the passionate response they’ve received from audiences.

“Their vision and energy align perfectly with what we do at BKFC — bringing raw, high-adrenaline combat sports to fans in a way they’ve never seen before.

“Partnering with them to create BKFC Ice Wars was an easy decision, and we’re excited to take this to the next level together.”