What's with the inconsistent writing...They specifically made these amulets to prevent unnecessary deaths (with the rule that you lose if they break), but a kid went out of his way to kill another contestant despite not having to, and they treat it just as a part of the spectacle? Then is killing fine or not...
Seriously, why do authors that end up getting published are content with such shitty writing. Consistency and world building are as important as the story itself. If the competition organizers have acted to minimize deaths, then this kid should be disqualified and arrested for murder no questions asked. THAT'S consistency.
Well, to begin with the fight already ended before he even struck, seeing as his opponent 'was unable to fight'. As such, it was straight out murder even if killing during the tournament was legal and A-OK.