REFEREE RULES AND GUIDELINES                                                                                                                                                                                             Updated July 14, 2008                          

APPLICATION OF THE RULES AND GUIDELINES

The purpose of these guidelines is to provide the participants and officials a clear guide as to what rules govern their bout and what referee mechanics are to be in place for each bout. The Association of Boxing Commissions (ABC) strongly recommends that these guidelines and practices be implemented in all championship bouts.

Unless prohibited or overridden by local Commission rules or policies, the Uniform Championship Rules and Guidelines of govern all championship contests held in ABC Member states.

In the event of an issue or dispute regarding a situation that occurs during the bout that is not covered by the Uniform Rules and Guidelines, the local Commission rules will be the final authority.

In the event of an issue or dispute regarding a situation that occurs during the bout that is not covered by the Uniform Championship Rules and Guidelines or the local Commission rules, the Referee; as the sole arbiter, will make a fair decision based on the safety of the boxer. 

1.    BOXER RULES AND EQUIPMENT

The local Commission is the final authority in all equipment matters.

1.1.                 GENERAL RULES

Improper use and/or tampering with any equipment prior to the bout may result in the removal from competition and if during a bout, a point(s) deduction or DISQUALIFICATION will occur.

Only soft contact lenses may be worn.  

The wearing of piercing accessories during competition is prohibited.

Unless specifically noted, female boxers are to follow the Male Bout Specific Rules. 

1.2.                 FEMALE BOUT-SPECIFIC RULES

Female boxers should not use any facial cosmetics and must have their hair secured with soft and non-abrasive materials.

During the bout, female boxers should wear the following equipment:

• Breast protectors optional unless Boxers has implants, then mandatory
• Body shirt
• Mouthpiece (two)
• Trunks (shall go no more than one (1) inch over the pelvic protective girdle)
• Gloves
• Boxing shoes

Additionally, it is strongly recommended that a female boxer wear a fitted genital protector.

1.3. DURATION OF ROUNDS

Female bout rounds are two (2) minutes in duration with a one (1) minute rest period after each round with the exception of the final round. 

Duration of the bout must be noted on the Bout Agreement.

2. MALE BOUT-SPECIFIC RULES

During the bout, male boxers should wear the following equipment:

• Mouthpiece (two)
• Trunks (should go no more than one (1) inch over the genital protector)
• Genital protector
• Gloves
• Boxing shoes

If a male boxer’s hair needs to be secured; only soft and non-abrasive materials should be used. Facial hair should be neatly cropped and can pose a threat to opponent.

3.0.  REGULATORY GUIDELINES FOR WEIGHT CLASSES, WEIGHT DIFFERENCES AND GLOVE

        WEIGHT.

4.0.  WEIGHT LOSS

Weight loss as determined by the local Commission that is detrimental to the health and safety of the participant will not be allowed. 

5.0.  GLOVES

All gloves must be approved by the Commission.

Contestants in all weight classes up to and including the welterweight class (147 pounds) shall wear no less than eight-ounce gloves. In heavier classes, contestants shall wear no less than ten-ounce gloves.

When two contestants differ in weight classes, the contestants shall wear the gloves required for the higher weight classification.

The brand name and color of the gloves will appear on the Boxer(s) Contract.  If it does not, the Commission has the final authority on all glove matters.

Gloves for all events will be new.  No breaking, skinning, roughing or twisting of gloves will be permitted.

6.0.  BANDAGES/WRAPPINGS

The use of water or any liquid or material on any part of the handwrap is strictly prohibited.

Bandages will be adjusted in the dressing room in the presence of both contestants and a Commission representative.  All bandages/wrappings are to be signed off by a Commission representative. Either contestant may waive his privilege of witnessing the bandaging/wrapping of his opponent's hands. 

6.1.  REGULATORY BANDAGES/WRAPPINGS

Bandages will not exceed the following restrictions:

One winding of surgeon's adhesive tape, not over one and one-half inches wide, placed directly on the hand to protect that part of the hand near the wrist. Said tape may cross the back of the hand twice but will not extend within one-inch of the knuckles when the hand is clenched to make a fist.

Contestants will use soft surgical bandage not over two inches wide, held in place by no more than eight (8) feet of surgeon's adhesive tape for each hand. One thirty (30) yard roll of bandage should complete the wrappings for each hand.

7.  SCORING OF THE BOUT

All bouts will be evaluated and scored by three (3) judges who will tabulate their scores on individual round scorecards.

The 10 Points Must System will be the standard system of scoring a bout.

In the event that a bout ends by TECHNICAL DECISION, the Judges will score the partial round.

Unless there is a point deduction(s), a round shall not be scored less than 10-6.

8.  LENGTH OF THE BOUT AND DURATION OF ROUNDS

Each round will be of three (3) minutes duration with a one (1) minute rest period after each round with the exception of the last round.

9.  SOLE ARBITER

The Referee is the sole arbiter and is the only individual authorized to:

Ø  interpret rules and situations

Ø  determine if a blow was legal or a foul and if a foul, if it was intentional or accidental

Ø  declare that an accidental injury has occurrred

The Uniform Rules dictate that only the Referee may stop the bout. However, if local Commission rules allow the Ringside Physician to stop the bout, either the Referee or the Ringside Physician may stop the bout.

10.  SECONDS

There can be no more than four (4) seconds working in each corner.  

Only one (1) second can work the corner inside of the ring, two (2) outside of the ring and one (1) on the floor in the corner during the one (1) minute rest period.

Excessive coaching from the corner and or excessive use of water is prohibited.

All seconds will be under the direct supervision of the Corner Inspector.

Any second who conducts himself or herself in an unruly manner will be removed from the corner.

A violation of the rules or unsportsmanlike tactics as determined by the Referee may also result in administrative discipline up to and including a fine, suspension and or the withholding of pay.

10.1.  CHIEF SECOND

One of the seconds will be deemed the Chief Second.  The Chief Second is responsible for all activities in the corner during the bout. However, for violations, the violating Second is responsible and he or she may be removed from the corner.

If the corner wants the bout stopped in a world or regional championship bout the Chief Second will notify the Inspector.

11.  CORNER STOPPING THE BOUT

It is strongly recommended that if a Chief Second wants to stop the bout, he or she is to inform the Inspector who will then inform the Referee.  Entering the ring during a count or the bout; and interfering will subject the corner’s boxer to a loss by DISQUALIFICATION.

It is recommended that no one throws anything into the ring. If the Chief Second wants the bout stopped and the Referee is not stopping it, simply inform the Inspector. 

Under no circumstances is a Second to enter the ring during competition. Doing so will subject the corner’s boxer to a loss by DISQUALIFICATION.

12.  MANDATORY EIGHT (8) COUNT

The Referee will administer the mandatory eight (8) count after all legal knockdowns.

At his or her discretion, the Referee may terminate the count if the boxer is in need of medical attention.

13.  MOUTHPIECE

It is mandatory that a boxer has a form fitted mouthpiece inside their mouth, set and in place at all times during the competition. It is strongly recommended that all boxers have two (2) form-fitted mouthpieces available for use in each bout.

The round cannot begin without the mouthpiece being set in place inside the boxer’s mouth and set in place.

If the mouthpiece is dislodged during the bout, the Referee will wait until the first opportune moment, without interfering with the action, call time out and have the mouthpiece replaced. 

At the discretion of the Referee, point(s) may be deducted or a DISQUALIFICATION rendered in the following situations:

Ø  If the mouthpiece is not being properly kept inside of the boxer’s mouth

Ø  If the mouthpiece is purposely spit out

Ø  If the corner fails to have the boxer resume boxing with the mouthpiece in place, and or delays in replacing it after it has become dislodged

If the mouthpiece comes out during or concurrent with a knockdown and the Referee determines that a point deduction is warranted, indicate the deduction as you are having the mouthpiece returned to the boxer. Do not bring the boxer into the center of the ring solely to deduct a point.

If the round goes to its natural conclusion, check with the Judges to assure that they deducted the point(s) as instructed from their scorecards.

In cases where a mouthpiece is spit out as determined by the Referee:

Ø  First occurrence: Mandatory one point deduction

Ø  Second occurrence Mandatory one point deduction

Ø  Third occurrence: Mandatory Disqualification

14.  STANDING EIGHT (8) COUNT

There is NO Standing Eight (8) Count.

15.  LEGAL KNOCKDOWN

When a boxer is struck by a legal blow(s) and goes down, the Referee will command “Down!” and signal by pointing to the canvas.

A boxer is deemed downed when struck by a legal blow(s):

Ø  any part other than the soles of his feet touch the canvas

Ø  if he is hanging helplessly on the ropes

Ø  if only the ropes prevent him from being knocked down

The boxer is suggested to be in a downed position when rising from a knockdown.

16.  THREE (3) KNOCKDOWN RULE

The Three (3) Knockdown Rule is not in effect.

If the bout is allowed to continue after a third knockdown in the same round the Referee is to watch the boxer very closely to prevent unnecessary damage to the boxer’s health.

17.  DOUBLE KNOCKDOWNS

If both boxers go down at the same time due to a legal blow, the Referee is to continue the count as long as one boxer is still down.  If both boxers remain down until the count of ten (10), the bout must be stopped and the decision is a TECHNICAL DRAW.

18.  BOXER KNOCKED THROUGH THE ROPES AND ONTO THE RING APRON

As a result of a legal blow a boxer is knocked through the ropes and onto the ring apron, but not completely out of the ring, he or she will receive a ten (10) second count. The boxer must return to a standing and ready position, he or she may only be assisted by a second, before the count elapses. If assisted by anyone other than a Second, (and the action causes an unfair advantage over the opponent) the boxer may lose point(s) or be DISQUALIFIED.

The Referee is the sole authority in deciding whether the boxer received assistance.

19.  BOXER KNOCKED COMPLETELY OUT OF THE RING

As a result of a legal blow a boxer is knocked completely out of the ring and onto the floor, the boxer will receive a twenty (20) second count. The boxer must return to a standing and ready position, unassisted by anyone, before the count elapses.  If assisted by anyone, (and the action causes an unfair advantage over the opponent) the boxer will lose by DISQUALIFICATION. 

In these cases there is a mandatory count of eighteen (18) unless the boxer is determined to be ready before the mandatory count.  

The Referee is the sole authority in deciding whether the boxer received assistance.

20.  BOXER KNOCKED THROUGH THE ROPES, UNTO THE RING APRON AND THEN

       FALLS COMPLETELY OUT OF THE RING.

As a result of a legal blow a boxer is knocked through the ropes and onto the ring apron and then during the count, he falls completely out of the ring and unto the floor, the count will change to a twenty-(20) second count. The boxer must return to a standing and ready position unassisted by anyone before the count elapses. If assisted by anyone, (and the action causes an unfair advantage over the opponent) the boxer will lose by DISQUALIFICATION.

In these cases there is a mandatory count of eighteen (18).

The Referee is the sole authority in deciding whether the boxer received assistance.

21.  BOXER DOWN AGAIN WITHOUT RECEIVING ANOTHER BLOW

As a result of a legal blow a boxer is knocked down and during the mandatory count, he goes down again without receiving another blow, the Referee should continue the count (unless the boxer is obviously hurt and needs immediate medical attention).

22.  BOXER DOWN AFTER THE BELL

The round ends when the bell has been rung.

In the event that legal blows during the round negatively affect a boxer and he or she goes down after the bell has sounded, the Referee will consider that the round is over and that the one (1) minute rest period has begun.

The Referee may then allow the boxer’s corner to assist him or her and/or summon the Ringside Physician to evaluate the boxer.

23.  KNOCKDOWNS AT THE BELL

The bell ending the round should not be sounded by the Timekeeper during a count. In the event that a knockdown occurs at the end of the round and the bell rings, the Referee will disregard the sounding of the bell and continue his mandatory count.

The Timekeeper will ring the bell after the count and the Referee’s evaluation. The boxers are to receive a full one-minute rest period immediately after these situations.

24.  WIPING OF GLOVES

Before a bout can resume after a boxer has been knocked down, fallen or slipped on the floor of the ring, the Referee will wipe his gloves.

25.  SLIPS

If a boxer goes down and the Referee does not announce that it was a legal knockdown, the Referee will command “No Knockdown!” and signal by extending both hands and arms in front of his body criss-crossing them at waist level.

26.  BLOWS AT OR AFTER THE BELL

A blow that strikes a boxer concurrent with the sounding of the bell is deemed to be a legal blow.

A blow that strikes a boxer after the sounding of the bell is deemed to be a foul that the Referee will determine if it was Accidental or Intentional.

Referees are to watch the boxer closely if he or she is struck in the head. Referees are strongly recommended to consult with the Ringside Physician as appropriate.

27.  BLOWS AT OR AFTER THE COMMAND OF “BREAK!” “TIME! OR “STOP!”

A blow that strikes a boxer concurrent with any of these commands is deemed to be a legal blow.

A blow that strikes a boxer after any of these commands is deemed to be a foul that the Referee will determine if it was Accidental or Intentional.

28.  SAVING BY THE BELL

A boxer who has been legally knocked down cannot be saved by the bell in any round.

29.  TERMINATION OF A BOUT DUE TO A FAIR BLOW

If a boxer sustains an injury from a fair blow(s) and the injury is severe enough to immediately terminate the bout, the injured boxer will lose by TECHNICAL KNOCKOUT (TKO).

30.  END OF THE ROUND ANNOUNCEMENT

The Timekeeper will signal the eminent end of each round when there are ten (10) seconds left in the round.

31.  OFFICIAL END OF THE ROUND

The round ends when the bell has been rung.

32.  BEGINNING OF THE ROUND ANNOUNCEMENT

The Timekeeper will signal the eminent beginning of each round when there are ten (10) seconds left in the one-(1) minute rest period.

33.  ACCIDENTAL INJURIES

A case of an accidental injury is when someone or something other than an opponent injures a boxer.

The Referee must immediately declare that an Accidental Injury has occurrred. In these cases the Referee will have the clock stopped and attend to the injury.

When the Referee declares that an accidental injury has occurrred, the Four (4) Round Rule will be applied.

The Referee must consult with the Ringside Physician in all accidental injury cases. The Referee in conjunction with the Ringside Physician will determine the length of time needed to evaluate the affected boxer and his or her suitability to continue.

If the injured boxer is not adversely affected and their chance of winning has not been seriously jeopardized because of the injury, the bout may be allowed to continue after the time allotted by the Referee.

34.  THE FOUR (4) ROUND RULE

The rule will apply to cases where a bout ends before its scheduled duration due to a foul, an accidental injury, or unforeseen circumstances.

The rule is applied after the completion of the Fourth (4) round.

In foul or injury cases, if the bout is allowed to continue after the issue has been addressed, but the foul or injury results in the bout being stopped in a latter round due to legal blows, the Four (4) Round Rule will apply.

34.1.  INTENTIONAL FOUL

If the rule is applied and the bout goes to the scorecards:

After the Fourth (4th) round if the fouled boxer is ahead on the scorecards he or she will win by: TECHNICAL DECISION.

Before the Fourth (4th) round if the fouled boxer is even or behind on the scorecards the result will be a: TECHNICAL DRAW.

If an Intentional Foul causes an injury and the fouled boxer can continue, the Referee will deduct two (2) points from the boxer who committed the foul.

If an Intentional Foul does not cause injury and the fouled boxer can continue, the Referee will deduct one (1) point from the boxer who committed the foul.

Only the Referee can determine if an Intentional Foul causes or does not cause injury.

34.2.  ACCIDENTAL FOUL

If the rule is applied and the bout goes to the scorecards:

After the Fourth (4th) round the boxer who is ahead on the scorecards will win by: TECHNICAL DECISION.

Before the Fourth (4th) round ends it is a: NO DECISION.

Inc cases where the Four (4) Round rule is applied Judges must score the partial round even if the round has to be scored even.

34.3.  ACCIDENTAL INJURY

An Accidental Injury is when someone or something other than the boxer’s opponent injures a boxer.  Only the Referee can determine if an Accidental Injury occurrred.

If the rule is applied and the bout goes to the scorecards:

After the Fourth (4th) round the boxer who is ahead on the scorecards will win by: TECHNICAL DECISION.

Before the Fourth (4th) round ends it is a: NO DECISION.

35.  FOULS

35.1.  REFEREE ACTION ON FOULS

The Referee shall inform the Commission Representative as soon as possible of the following:

Ø  The type of foul

Ø  If the foul was accidental or intentional

Ø  If point(s) will be deducted from the offending boxer

Ø  If the offending boxer will be disqualified

Ø  If the Five (5) minute rule will or will not be applied

Ø  If the Four (4) round rule will or will not be applied

Ø  If the bout will or will not continue

The Referee must declare if a blow was legal or a foul and if a foul, if it was Accidental or Intentional.

Deduction of point(s) for fouls will be done at the time of the infraction.

Decisions to employ the Five (5) minute rule, a temporary bout stoppage, or the Four (4) Round rule are to be based initially on the rules that govern the bout and subsequently on the discretion of the Referee if the rules are unclear. The Referee may consult with the Ringside Physician if necessary. In foul cases, the primary importance is the safety of the boxer and the integrity of the bout.

If an Intentional Foul causes an injury, and the injury is severe enough to immediately terminate the bout, the boxer causing the injury will lose by DISQUALIFICATION.

Deduction of point(s) for Intentional Fouls is mandatory.

36.  FOULS OR UNSPORTSMANLIKE CONDUCT DURING THE ONE (1) MINUTE REST PERIOD.                                                                                     

The one (1) minute rest period is not considered a part of the scoring portion of any round.

If a boxer fouls or acts in an unsportsmanlike manner during the one (1) minute rest period the Referee will admonish or disqualify the offending boxer depending on the severity of the offense.

The Chief Second is responsible for all corner activities. Any illegal activity may cause the Chief Second to be immediately removed from the corner for the entire event.

37.  CONCUSSIVE HEAD IMPACT FOULS

The Referee must consult with the Ringside Physician in all cases involving concussive head impact fouls. The Referee in conjunction with the Ringside Physician will determine the length of time needed to evaluate the affected boxer and his or her suitability to continue.

37.1.  INTENTIONAL

If the Referee determines that a foul to the head was intentional, he will follow the Intentional Foul Rule and guidelines, considering that allowing the bout to continue may subject a boxer to a severe injury. If the affected boxer is not badly injured and their chance of winning has not been seriously jeopardized because of the foul, the bout may be allowed to continue. If the bout is allowed to continue, the offending boxer will be issued an official warning and have two (2) points deducted from his or her score in the round. 

If the Referee determines that the affected boxer cannot continue, the offending boxer will lose by DISQUALIFICATION.

37.2.  ACCIDENTAL

If the Referee determines that a foul to the head was accidental, he will follow the Accidental Foul Rule and guidelines, considering that allowing the bout to continue may subject a boxer to a severe injury. If the affected boxer is not badly injured and their chance of winning has not been seriously jeopardized because of the foul, the bout may be allowed to continue.  In these cases the Four (4) Round rule will be applied.

38.  THE FIVE (5) MINUTE RULE

The five (5) minute rule is only applicable to low blow fouls.

In cases where another foul or an accidental injury occurs and there is a need to temporarily stop the bout, the length of time needed to evaluate the affected boxer will be determined by the Referee in conjunction with the Ringside Physician.

39.  LOW BLOW

39.1.  INTENTIONAL  

If the Referee determines that the low blow foul was intentional, he will follow the Intentional Foul guidelines.  If the offended boxer is not badly injured and their chance of winning has not been seriously jeopardized because of the foul, the Five (5) Minute and Four (4) Round rules may be applied.

If the Referee determines that the boxer cannot continue, the offending boxer will lose by DISQUALIFICATION.

39.2.  ACCIDENTAL

In cases where a boxer is hit with an accidental low blow and claims injury, the Referee, at his discretion, may apply the Five (5) Minute Rule.  If the injured boxer cannot resume boxing before the recovery period ends, the injured boxer will lose the bout by TECHNICAL KNOCKOUT.

40.  DISQUALIFICATION

A boxer will lose by DISQUALIFICATION when he or she has:

Ø  fouled and caused harm to their opponent

Ø  continually refused to follow the rules

Ø  continually disobeyed the Referee

41.  SELF-INJURY

If a boxer injures himself while attempting to intentionally foul his opponent or by performing an unorthodox move, the Referee will not take any action in their favor and the injury will be considered the same as one produced by a fair blow.

If the injured boxer cannot resume boxing when ordered to do so by the Referee, he or she will lose the bout by TECHNICAL KNOCKOUT.

In cases of Self-Injury, neither the Four (4) Round nor Five (5) Minute Rules apply.

42.  SUSPENSION OF THE BOUT FOR UNFORESEEN REASONS

If a bout has to be suspended for any reason other than the actions of the boxers, the Referee will have the clock stopped and attend to the issue.

The Referee and the Commission Representative will decide the length of time allotted to address the issue.

ALL reasonable efforts will be made to resume the bout as soon as possible.  It is expected that the responsible party or parties make a true effort to resolve the issue.

If all reasonable efforts are made and the bout cannot resume, the Four (4) Round Rule will be applied.

If the bout is unexpectedly stopped under suspicious circumstances, all or part of the following actions may take place:

Ø  if a boxer and or their corner is involved, the offending boxer may be DISQUALIFIED

Ø  the boxers’ purses may be withheld until a formal hearing takes place

Ø  any participant may be monetarily fined and or administratively disciplined

Ø  the matter may be referred to the appropriate law enforcement agency

If the rule is applied and the bout goes to the scorecards:

After the Fourth (4th) round the boxer who is ahead on the scorecards will win by: TECHNICAL DECISION.

Before the Fourth (4th) round ends it is a: NO DECISION.

43.  USE OF VASELINE/LINIMENTS

The discretionary use of Vaseline around the eyes and lightly about the face is permissible. However, use on other body parts is prohibited.

The use of liniments and or greased muscle pain relievers is also prohibited.

44.  CONSUMABLES DURING THE BOUT

Unless local Commission rules state otherwise, boxers may only consume pure water during the bout.  The use of banned substances is grounds for DISQUALIFICATION and administrative disciplinary action.

*RECOMMENDED*

REFEREE ACTIONS, BASIC MECHANICS & AND SAFETY INFORMATION

DRESSING ROOM – KEY ISSUES TO EXAMINE AND DISCUSS

The Referee is to check the boxer’s appearance and equipment to determine if it is in conformance with local Commission rules and health and safety best practices.  

Any deficiencies should be rectified immediately and prior to competition.

In considering dressing room instructions, this is not a time to recite all of the rules.  Take the opportunity to be brief and firm in discussing key issues such as:

1.    Unsportsmanlike conduct to include the three key fouls:

Ø  Head butting

Ø  Low Blow and

Ø  Holding

Establish Control. Briefly go over fouls in general, but explicitly discuss the three most common fouls and harmful fouls.  Instill in the boxers a sense of respect for the event and that you demand that they follow the rules and your commands without exception. 

2.  Verbal Commands and Hand Signals

A strong sense of proper movement and positioning, verbal commands and hand signals separate great Referees from others.  Establish your commands and signals in the Dressing Room.

Go over breaking or separating the boxers, specific commands of the major fouls, etc.  

3.  Knockdown Procedures

As important as this is, the sport continues to have problems due to poor mechanics that lead to negative situations.

It means nothing to a boxer or the sport if the Referee thinks one thing and everyone else another. Everyone must be on the same page. You do not need to reinvent the wheel.  Take a moment and tell the boxers what you will do in the event of a knockdown and what you expect of them.

Explain to them exactly what they need to do if they suffer or score a knockdown.

Explain to the boxers what you expect from them if they go down during a count without being struck again by another blow.

Also explain to them what you will be looking for and what you want them to do if they suffer a knockdown.

Additionally, make it clear that they are not to strike an opponent when they are down. 
They are to go to a neutral corner after scoring a knockdown and are not to leave until they are called out.

4.  Temporary Stops of Action

Avoid temporary stops. If you have to stop the bout temporarily do it decisively and quickly. Explain to the boxers how you will do it and what you expect of them.

5.  End of the Round Procedure

It is good practice to take advantage of the ten-second announcement towards the end of the round by getting in good position so that you will be centered to the boxers at the actual end of the round. Get in a centered position, call out “Time!” and concurrently announce the end of the round with a hand signal. 

6.  Mouthpiece Procedure

The clock is to be stopped under the Uniform Rules when a mouthpiece becomes dislodged and is being returned to the boxer.  

Explain to the boxers how you will handle these situations and the consequences of spitting out a mouthpiece. Make it a point to mention that if the mouthpiece becomes dislodged concurrent with a knockdown, it is your immediate decision to make whether the mouthpiece was spit out or it became dislodged because of the natural bout action.

ADDITIONAL GUIDELINES FOR FEMALE BOXERS  

1.  Protective Equipment

Female boxers shall box in boxing shorts, abdominal guard, foul proof cup, body shirt, shoes and a custom-made, individually fitted mouthpiece.  Breast protectors are optional unless the boxer has implants. In those cases the wearing of a breast protector is mandatory.  

2.  Hair & Cosmetics

Boxers will wear NO facial cosmetics. Hair should be secured with soft and non-abrasive materials when deemed appropriate by an official from the supervising Commission.

3.  Weight Classes

The weight classes will be the same ones used by male boxers.

4.  Number and Duration of Rounds

No female professional boxing contest will be scheduled for more than ten (10) rounds.  Each round will be two (2) minutes in duration and have a one (1) minute rest period between rounds. 

5.  Female Bout Gloves Sizes

Glove weight will be the same as used by male boxers.  Larger gloves may be used if agreed upon by both boxers.

6.  Pregnancy Test

Unless local law prohibits, negative pregnancy tests, not more than 14 days old, should be provided to the Commission prior to each bout.

KNOCKDOWN MECHANICS

1.    Command “Down!”

2.    Motion the scoring boxer to the furthest neutral corner.

3.    Pick up the count from the Timekeeper/Knockdown Judge.

Ø  Position yourself so that you can focus on the downed boxer, the other boxer, and the Timekeeper/Knockdown Judge.

4.    Count aloud and succinctly while gesticulating with your hands the numbers of the count.

Ø  While counting, concentrate on the downed boxer and look for signs of weakness such as position of the eyes, glassy stare, dilation of pupils, lack of steady equilibrium, bad cuts or bleeding, etc.

Ø  Do not over concentrate on the scoring boxer in the neutral corner unless he or she exits the corner and forces you to stop the count.

Ø  Use both hands when counting six through ten.

Ø  Position your hands in line with the boxer’s eyes. Do not fan, wave, etc. your hands.

Ø  Do not demonstrate excessive emotion. In other words, do not over dramatize the knockdown.

5.    At the count of eight or nine, ask the downed boxer if he or she can continue and have him   

 take one step towards you.

Ø  Don’t be so close to the boxer.  Stand about one arm’s length from him.  Don’t touch the boxer or let the boxer touch you.

Ø  Render your critical decision.

Ø  If he or she can continue, wipe their gloves.

Ø  Wipe the gloves AFTER the boxer takes a step towards you not before.

6. Have boxing resume immediately.

SLIP MECHANICS

1.   Command “No Knockdown!” and issue the appropriate hand signal (cris-cross at waist level).

2.   Quickly check the boxer.

3.   Wipe the boxer’s gloves.

4.   Have boxing resume immediately.

TEMPORARY STOP MECHANICS (WITHOUT A POINT DEDUCTION)

1. Secure a safe distance and assume a centered position to the boxers.

2. Command “Time!”

3. Assure that the boxers are completely apart.  

4. Stand in front of the offending boxer, without turning your back on the other boxer, and advise him or her of the foul.

5. Assure that the offending boxer understood the admonishment and that both are separated and ready to continue.

6. Call time back in.  

7. Have boxing resume immediately.

HEADBUTT MECHANICS (WITH POSSIBLE INJURY)

1. Secure a safe distance and assume a centered position to the boxers.

2. Command “Time!”

3. Assure that the boxers are completely apart.

4. Command out “Accidental Headbutt!” or “Intentional Headbutt!” and give an appropriate hand signal.

5. Examine both boxers quickly and take appropriate action to include notifying the Commission Table/Supervisor.  If the fouled boxer needs medical attention, summon the Ringside Physician while   

    ushering the other boxer to the furthest neutral corner.

6. Caution both boxers for headbutting and or take appropriate action.

7. Call time back in.  

8. Have boxing resume immediately.

NOTE: You may call the Ringside Physician to examine the boxer or for consultation, but do so only when absolutely necessary.

LOW BLOW MECHANICS (WITH POSSIBLE INJURY)

1.  Secure a safe distance and assume a centered position to the boxers.

2.  Command “Time!”

3.  Assure that the boxers are completely apart.

     State ‘Accidental’ or ‘Intentional’.

2.   Stand in front of the offending boxer, without turning your back on the other boxer, and advise him or her of the foul.

3.   Evaluate the hurt boxer and clearly advise him or her that boxing needs to resume within no more than five minutes or he or she will loose by TKO. (Accidental low blow only). Discreetly encourage the boxer to continue as soon as possible.

4.    Assure that the offending boxer understood the admonishment and that both are separated and ready to continue.

7.  Advise the offending boxer again verbally (quickly) to pick up their punches.

     If the boxer goes down, wipe his gloves before resuming.

8.  Call time back in.  

9.  Have boxing resume immediately.

NOTE: You may call the Ringside Physician to examine the boxer or for consultation, but do so only when absolutely necessary.

POINT DEDUCTION MECHANICS

1. Secure a safe distance and assume a centered position to the boxers.

2. Command “Time!”  Assure that the boxers are completely apart.

3. Usher the offended boxer to a neutral corner.

4. Stand in front of the offending boxer without turning your back on the other boxer and advise him or her of the foul.  Assure that the offending boxer understood the admonishment.

5. Notify the Judges of the point deduction and type of foul.

6. Again, caution the boxer for the infraction.

7. Call time back in.  

8. Have boxing resume immediately.

NOTE: You may call the Ringside Physician to examine the boxer or for consultation, but do so only when absolutely necessary.

If the round goes to its natural conclusion, check with the Judges to assure that they deducted the point(s) as you instructed.

DISLODGED MOUTHPIECE MECHANICS

1. Wait until there is a lull in the action, which is, when both boxers have stopped throwing punches and have somewhat retreated.

2. Secure a safe distance and assume a centered position to the boxers.

3. Command “Time!”

4. Assure that the boxers are completely apart.

5. Direct the boxer whose mouthpiece has remained in place to the furthest neutral corner, while at the same time directing the boxer without the mouthpiece to his or her corner to have it rinsed and replaced. The mouthpiece should only be replaced by a Second. Do not insert the mouthpiece yourself.

6. Retrieve the mouthpiece and have it returned to the boxer who lost it.

7. Quickly and clearly, advise the boxer who lost their mouthpiece to keep it in their mouth.

8. Call time back in.  

9. Have boxing resume immediately.

NOTE: Strive to have the corner carry two (2) mouthpieces in all bouts, especially championship bouts.

If the mouthpiece comes out during or concurrent with a knockdown and you determine that a point deduction is warranted, indicate the deduction as you are having the mouthpiece returned to the boxer.  Do not bring the boxer into the center of the ring solely to deduct a point.

If the round goes to its natural conclusion, check with the Judges to assure that they deducted the point(s) as you instructed when you pick up the scorecards.

BASIC SPANISH VERBAL COMMANDS

Boxing is truly an international sport.  If the boxer(s) speak English and so do you, use it to your advantage.  It is when one or both do not that could pose a problem for the Referee. This does not imply that to be effective with foreign boxers a Referee must be able to speak their language fluently. But, knowing a little of the language and being aware that there are certain language and cultural differences does help. 

The challenge lies with the ever-increasing number of Latin Boxers because there is often both a language and custom barrier. While following the sport of boxing closely and watching other Referees work are significant tools to overcome these barriers.

With this in mind, it is important to note that some of the same words mean different things to people from different Latin American countries. Attempt to learn the basic commands and differentiate them from Latin boxers.

For example, the command of ‘holding’ could be, ‘aguantar’, ‘sujetar’, ‘agarrar’ or ‘amarrar’. In addition, the command of ‘stop’ does not necessarily mean ‘alto’ as some English speaking Referees use. ‘Alto’ means ‘high’ in many Latin countries. There are many other similar situations.

The point is, be careful what words you use. If you are not fluent in the language, you may strongly consider detailing simple English commands in the Dressing Room and using them in the ring.

BREAK - Although universal, you may also get your message across by saying  “FUERA!” (FOO-AY-RA) or “SALGA LIMPIO!” (SAL-GAH LEEM-PEE-OH) Most Spanish boxers will understand both of these commands.

HEADBUTT -  If a headbutt occurrred or there is a danger that a headbutt will occur you may say : “CABEZA!” (KA-BAY-SSAH) or “CUIDADO CON LA CABEZA!” (KWEE-DA-DOE KOHN LA KA-BAY-SSAH)

PUNCH OUT OR LET HIM GO - “SUELTELO!” (SUE-EL-TAY-LO) or  “DEJELO SALIR!” (DEH-HAY-LO SAH-LEER)

LOW BLOW - “GOLPE BAJO!” (GOL-PAY  BAH-HOE) or  “MAS ARRIBA!” (MAHS A-REE-BAH)

PUNCH BACK - The Referee is not a Second, but if you feel you have to, the best way is to say  it is, “TIRE GOLPES!” (TEE-RAY GOL-PAYS)

STOP PUNCHING - “NO TIRE!” (NO TEE-RAY) or “NO TIRE GOLPES!” (NO TEE-RAY GOL-PAYS)

STOP HOLDING - In Spanish the best command would be, “SUELTELO!”  (SUE-EL-TAY-LO) This implies that the boxer is holding and that you want him to stop.

STOP -  “PARE!” (PAH-RAY)

DON’T DO THAT - “NO HAGAS ESO!” (NO AGAS AYY-SO)

MOST SEVERE CUTS

Cuts located in certain areas of the face or head are more dangerous than others.  See list below:

1. Inside the corner of the eye. It may cause permanent damage to the tear ducts and can cause dry eye and frequent infections.

2. Below the brow, in the crease of the eye, or on the part of the lid that covers the eyeball.

3. Below the eye (lower lid) close to the eyelashes.  These injuries are very difficult to repair.

4. Deep cuts above the eyebrow, can affect the boxer’s ability to lift the eyebrow. These injuries could cause permanent disfigurement.

5. Cuts on the tongue or on the inside of the lip. These tend to bleed profusely.

6. Vermillion border (the line between the lip and the face).  These injuries are very difficult to correct with stitches.  It can also cause scarring making it difficult for the boxer to close his mouth properly.