The rules and policies governing Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) are designed to ensure the safety of fighters, fairness in competition, and the integrity of the sport. These regulations are implemented by governing bodies, such as national MMA federations, and align with standardized frameworks.
a. Fight Duration
•Amateur bouts: 3 rounds, 3 minutes each.
•Professional bouts: 3–5 rounds, 5 minutes each.
•1-minute rest between rounds.
b. Weight Classes
Fighters compete within designated weight categories to ensure fairness, such as:
•Flyweight: Up to 56.7 kg (125 lbs)
•Lightweight: Up to 70.3 kg (155 lbs)
•Heavyweight: Up to 120.2 kg (265 lbs)
c. Attire
•Fighters must wear approved MMA gloves, shorts, and a mouthguard.
•Female fighters may wear additional protective gear (e.g., rash guards or chest protectors).
•No shoes, headgear, or jewelry allowed.
a. Legal Techniques
•Strikes using fists, elbows, knees, and legs.
•Takedowns, throws, and grappling maneuvers.
•Submission attempts like chokes and joint locks.
b. Illegal Techniques
•Strikes to the back of the head, throat, or spine.
•Eye gouging, biting, or spitting.
•Kicking or kneeing the head of a grounded opponent.
•Grabbing the cage, hair pulling, or groin strikes.
•Use of abusive language or unsportsmanlike conduct.
3. Scoring Policies
Judges score fights using the 10-Point Must System based on:
•Effective Striking and Grappling: Dominance in landing strikes or executing grappling maneuvers.
•Aggressiveness: Displaying initiative in the fight.
•Control: Dictating the pace, position, and location of the fight.
a. Pre-Fight Medicals
•Fighters must pass a medical examination to ensure fitness to compete.
•Testing for banned substances (e.g., PEDs, recreational drugs).
b. Fight Stoppages
Referees may stop a fight for:
•Knockout (KO): A fighter is rendered unconscious from a strike.
•Technical Knockout (TKO): A fighter is unable to defend themselves intelligently.
•Submission: A fighter taps out physically or verbally.
c. Post-Fight Medicals
•Fighters must undergo medical evaluations after the fight.
•Suspensions may be issued for injuries (e.g., concussions).
a. Fighter Conduct
•Respect opponents, officials, and fans.
•Adhere to event rules and regulations.
•Avoid unsportsmanlike behavior (e.g., taunting, foul play).
b. Coach and Team Conduct
•Ensure ethical behavior in and out of competition.
•Avoid interference during fights.
c. Anti-Doping Policy
•Fighters must comply with anti-doping regulations.
•Regular and random testing ensures a clean sport.
•Cage Requirements: Hexagonal/octagonal with padded surfaces.
•Referees and Officials: Trained and certified to enforce rules and ensure safety.
•Fan Conduct: Zero tolerance for disruptive or abusive behavior.
•Fouls: Result in warnings, point deductions, or disqualification.
•Missed Weight: Fighters may forfeit a percentage of their purse or face disqualification.
•Banned Substances: Result in suspensions, fines, or bans from competition.
•Decisions can be reviewed post-fight for errors or appeals.
•A governing body or commission oversees disputes and rulings.
•Fighters are required to have medical insurance for injuries sustained during competition.
•Event organizers provide liability coverage for participants.
These rules and policies create a safe, fair, and professional environment for MMA fighters and fans, ensuring the sport’s credibility and growth.
