Crossword Genius

Highly dangerous conflict appropriate for boxer? (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

dogfight

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'highly dangerous conflict' is the definition.
'dogfight' can be an answer for 'conflict' (I've seen this before). I am unsure of the 'highly dangerous' bit.

'appropriate for boxer?' is the wordplay.
'appropriate' becomes 'fight' (I can't justify this - if you can you should give a lot more credence to this answer).
'for' says to put letters next to each other (I've seen this in other clues).
'boxer?' becomes 'dog' (boxer is a kind of dog).
'fight' put after 'dog' is 'DOGFIGHT'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for dogfight that I've seen before include "Highly aggressive activity" , "Rough-and-tumble" , "Canine struggle?" , "boxers might engage in?" , "Aircraft battle" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app