It is a combination of more than just faking it. They really do not try to hurt each other but they are putting on as entertainment and so while pretending - they also go through a lot of physical activity.
If they die - then it was an accident but they do have some strenuous stuff going on.
Its scripted not fake, only thing fake about it is the drama and punches, kicks rest is non stop pain
It's magic.
it's pre-determined but very physical and dangerous
People have died from being shot with blanks...
You answered your own question.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m2lpJse_...
does this look real to you?
