Amateur Boxing Rules & Regulations

If you want to be a boxer, you had better be willing to cut your hair. At least, you'll need to cut it if you want to box in the United States.

That's just one of the guidelines set forth by USA Boxing, which follows the rules implemented by the International Amateur Boxing Association (AIBA). The AIBA governs Olympic boxing and most amateur boxing organizations adhere to its procedures.

Besides keeping your hair "arranged in such a manner as to extend no more than five inches below the base of the headgear," there are a few important regulations.

  1. Rules of Engagement

    • Prior to throwing a punch, an amateur boxer must be fitted with the proper gear. This means USA Boxing-approved gloves, headgear, shorts and shoes. You can find exact equipment specifications on the USA Boxing website (usaboxing.org).

      Along with the rule about hair length, amateur boxers are not permitted to sport beards, mustaches or any combination of the two. In fact, the official rulebook states that boxers "must be clean-shaven" before they are even allowed to weigh in.

      And unlike professional fighters, amateurs are required to wear a sleeveless athletic shirt. Interestingly, the shirt must be different color than the waistband around the shorts. (Female boxers can wear a T-shirt, but the same rule applies to the waistband.)

      Socks can be any color and length, provided they stretch no higher than one inch below the knee. Shoes must be made of soft material, with no cleats, spikes or heels allowed.

      Once boxers are properly attired, the fight begins. And while it might look like little more than two guys (or gals) taking swings at each other, there are a number of directives that must be followed.

      For instance, we all know the term "hitting below the belt," and we all know it's an absolute no-no -- in boxing and in life.

      Nor are you allowed to punch your opponent in the back or neck, or when he's down. Head-butting is also forbidden, as is hitting with a forearm, kicking with a knee and pulling your opponent closer before landing a punch.

      Not only is it illegal to hit below the belt, but you're not allowed to duck below it when trying to avoid a punch. One other commonly used (and strictly prohibited) technique is to attempt to grab and hold an opponent's arm when he takes a swing.

      Any form of wrestling or using the ropes around the ring to aid your cause will draw a referee's ire as well.

      If you're able to abide by those rules, well, then it will be up to the judges. As a boxer at any level will tell you, there's no telling what they might decide. All you can really do is abide by the rules and hope for the best.