Boxing isn’t just about throwing punches – it is a sport built on discipline, respect, and a rulebook that guides every move in the ring. Whether you are an aspiring boxer or simply admiring the game from the sidelines, it's essential to know the basics of boxing, which gives one a strategic advantage and a greater understanding of the sport.
THE ROLE OF RULES IN THE SPORT OF BOXING
You must be thinking, what are the rules of boxing, right? But before jumping to that, let's understand why boxing rules matter. Clarity comes from understanding the rules. It improves boxers' understanding of the scoring system and helps them prevent mistakes.
Boxing is not limited to throwing jabs and punches. The sport is deeply rooted in strategy and athletic excellence.
BOXING RING SIZE
A boxing ring ought to be between 16 and 24 feet, bounded by ropes all around. There is padding on the floor for shock absorption.
NECESSARY GEAR
Gloves: weigh 8-10 oz. Act as a cushion against blows. These gloves are available from Wicked Boxing in outstanding quality to help you step up your game.
· Hand wraps: usually worn underneath the gloves to protect the bones and tendons of the hands
· Mouthguard: to protect against blows to the mouth
· Headgear: minimizes the risk of concussion
· Protective cup: for male fighters
RING ETTIQUETTE
Respect for all the officials is of prime importance. During the rounds, only the referee and boxers are inside the ring. Upon calling “break”, both fighters must disengage immediately. This is where discipline meets action. Knowing the ring etiquette boosts confidence.
WEIGHT CLASSES
The International Boxing Federation (IBF) divides fighters into 17 weight classes. Boxers compete with other boxers of the same weight and size, hence competing based on their weight. This is to keep the fight fair and fighters competitive. Some of these include:
· Minimumweight: 105 lbs(47.63 kg)
· Light Flyweight: 108 lbs(49 kg)
· Featherweight: 126 lbs(57.15 kg)
· Super Middleweight: 168 lbs(76.2 kg)
· Heavyweight: Over 200 lbs(90.72 kg & Up)
ROUNDS
A boxing match is divided into several rounds, each lasting for a designated amount of time. The standard duration of these rounds is typically three minutes, with a one-minute breather in between. The boxing rounds can be between 4,6,8,10, and 12. However, championships can have up to 12 rounds, with a two-minute rest in between.
SCORING SYSTEM
A 10-point scoring system is used in boxing games. Winners get a total of 10 points, while the loser receives 9 points or fewer. A 10-8 score is obtained in case of a knockdown, with a minus one point from the fallen fighter. Three judges individually score each round, and their scores are combined by the end of the fight. Tiebreakers are employed in case of a tie.
WHAT ARE THE RULES OF BOXING
Fundamentally, boxing is governed by a set of rules that every boxer must stick to:
· Jabs with closed fists allowed only; kicks, elbow strikes, or headbutts are prohibited
· You cannot hit behind the head, below the belt, or on the back, which can end in penalties since it's illegal
· During a fight, fighters are not allowed to shove, hold too tightly, trip, wrestle, or use the ropes as leverage.
· Fighter knocked down? The opponent must go to a neutral corner
What Does ‘Fighter Cannot Be Saved by the Bell Mean?’
So, what is meant by ‘a fighter cannot be saved by the bell’? It simply means that if a fighter is knocked down right before the round ends, the usual 10-second count carries over into the rest of the round. If the count reaches 10 by the referee during this time, the fight ends in a knockout. This 'no saved by the bell' rule exists to prevent a boxer from suffering a catastrophic hit and being rescued solely by the timing, thereby necessitating the fighter's safety.
Knockdowns and Knockouts
Knockdown, in the simplest of words, means a fighter hits the canvas or touches the ropes after a legal blow. The referee counts to 10, and if the fighter fails to rise during this time, the round ends in a knockout.
The 3 knockdown rule is not a rule in professional boxing. In some places, it is considered a rule, but globally, the no-3 knockdown rule is accepted. If a fighter is knocked down three times in the same round, the fight ends.
A referee has the authority to end a fight when he determines that a competitor can no longer continue safely. This is known as a technical knockout (TKO).
COMMON FOULS IN A BOXING RING
1. Hitting below the belt
2. Hitting after a break is called out
3. Holding and hitting
4. Spitting, biting, or using foul language with the opponent or referee
5. Taking support from the ropes
6. Punching the back of the head
Initially, warnings are given, which leads to a point deduction. If the foul is repeated, it can end up in disqualification. Spitting or biting can end the fight right away.
CONCLUSION
Boxing is not just about throwing punches. It is a sport with strict rules. From grasping what are the rules of boxing to understanding why a fighter cannot be saved by the bell, these rules strike a balance between safety and competition. Understanding these rules, including the no 3 knockdown rule to the no saved by the bell rule, enhances your trust and confidence in the game.
