Well, in hockey, you don't score any points for throwing punches, unlike boxing.
I've watched quite a few hockey games over the years and yet I think an all-out brawl is unnecessary, especially if the guys aren't fighting for the puck up against the boards or anything. Hockey has always been a fast-paced and rough sport but the line has to be drawn somewhere. Obviously, using hockey sticks in a fight are absolutely forbidden as it is assault with a weapon or something like that (I don't know the legal specifics.) There have been fist fights on the ice where guys were sent to the hospital, or worse.
What is it, really? A bitter rivalry between players.. or what?
Personally, the endorphins I get whenever playing a sport or working out overrides the testosterone when it comes to my mood.
I'm curious though. Why are all-out fights on the ice considered "part of the game", but fights anywhere else considered assault?