Boxing Rules & Regulations

Boxing requires rules and regulations that not only protect the boxers, but the sport as a whole. Injuries can mount up in boxing, and as such, rules were put in place. The most prevalent of the rules in boxing is that you are only allowed to punch. Kicking can cause severe injury to the boxer. There are other rules that make up the official sport of boxing that are important to follow.

  1. Weight Class

    • You must maintain a certain weight to fight in boxing's various weight classes. Boxers have been known to shed or gain weight to fight in different weight classes.

    Below the Belt

    • Boxers must punch above the belt. Failure to do so will result in point deductions or disqualification from the match.

    No Kicking Allowed

    • You are only allowed to punch the opponent. Kicking or sweeping is not allowed, nor is throwing a knee in the air.

    Punching While Opponent Is Going Down

    • A boxer must stop punching if the opponent is falling to the mat. Referees will often jump in, but the boxer must exercise restraint when his opponent is going down.

    No Drug Policy

    • Before every fight card is signed, boxers must submit a drug test. Performance-enhancing drugs are also not allowed.

    Medical Waivers

    • Waivers must be signed before every match because of the intensity of the sport. The waivers state that boxers are not liable for the medical expenses accrued after the match.