What is the ruling on striking the face in a sport that aims to teach how to block punches, in which gloves and protective gear are used, and the intention is not to harm the other, and does this fall under the prohibition of striking the face?

The answer is summarized in the following points:

It is permissible to practice martial arts such as boxing and wrestling if there is no harm to either party. They are permissible if they accustom a person to strength, fighting, and self-defense. This is supported by the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, allowing the Abyssinians to play with spears in his mosque, which scholars considered training with weapons in preparation for jihad. It is also indicated by the Prophet’s, peace and blessings be upon him, saying: “Lands will be opened for you, and Allah will suffice you, so let none of you be incapable of amusing himself with his arrows,” which encourages training with weapons and competing to strengthen the body and prepare for war.