AUTHORITY: Implementing the Boxing and Full-contact Martial Arts Act [225 ILCS 105] and authorized by Section 2105-15 of the Civil Administrative Code of Illinois [20 ILCS 2105/2105-15].

SOURCE: Old Part repealed at 32 Ill. Reg. 17680, effective November 3, 2008; new Part adopted at 36 Ill. Reg. 14249, effective September 14, 2012.

SUBPART A: GENERAL PROVISIONS

 

Section 1370.10  Definitions

 

Unless the text indicates otherwise, the following terms shall be defined as follows:

 

"Act" means the Boxing and Full-contact Martial Arts Act [225 ILCS 105].

 

"Amateur" means a person registered by the Division who is not competing for, and has never received or competed for, any purse or other article of value, directly or indirectly, either for participating in any contest or for the expenses of training for a contest, other than a non-monetary prize that does not exceed $50 in value.

 

"Amateur contest" means a boxing or full-contact martial arts competition in which all of the participants competing against one another are amateurs and that the public is able to attend, and for which a fee is charged.  

 

"Announcer" means a person responsible for announcing the names of the officials and the contestants, the contestants' weights, and the decisions of the referee and judges during a bout.

 

"Board" means the State of Illinois Athletic Board.

 

"Bout" means one professional boxing, martial arts or mixed martial arts match between 2 contestants.

 

"Boxing" means the art of attack and defense with the fists, practiced as a sport.

 

"Contest" means a group of bouts organized as a single event.

 

"Contestant" means a person licensed by the Division who competes in a bout.

 

"Department" means the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation.

 

"Director" means the Director of the Division of Professional Regulation with the authority delegated by the Secretary.

 

"Division" means the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation-Division of Professional Regulation.

 

"Exhibition" means a show of boxing, martial arts or mixed martial arts, or sparring in which there is no score or decision.

 

"Fighting Area" means the ring, cage or physical area where the contestants compete.

 

"Inspector" means a person employed by the Division to attend contests and to ensure that all laws are adhered to by licensees.

 

"Judge" means a person licensed by the Division who serves as a member of a judging panel for contests.  The panel is responsible for determining a decision in each bout.

 

"Main event" means the bout during a contest that is the main attraction for the contest.

 

"Manager" means a person licensed by the Division who is not a promoter and who, under contract, agreement or other arrangement with any contestant, undertakes to directly or indirectly control or administer the affairs of a contestant.

 

"Martial Arts" means a discipline such as, but not limited to, Karate, Kung Fu, Jujitsu, Muay Thai, Tae Kwon Do and Kickboxing, or other similar sport.

 

"Matchmaker" means a person licensed by the Division who is responsible for matching the contestants for a bout based on weight and experience.

 

"Mixed Martial Arts" means the use of a combination of techniques from different disciplines of martial arts, including, without limitation, grappling, kicking and striking.

 

"Official" means referees, judges, timekeepers, physicians and Division representatives involved in professional events.

 

"Paramedic" means a person licensed under the Emergency Medical Services Systems Act [210 ILCS 50] as an Emergency Medical Technician-Paramedic.

 

"Permit" means authorization from the Division to hold a contest in the State of Illinois.

 

"Physician" means a person licensed under the Medical Practice Act of 1987 [225 ILCS 60] to practice medicine in all of its branches.

 

"Promoter" means a natural person who initiates or takes part in the organization or development of a contest or who provides financial backing for a contest and who must be licensed by the Division to conduct contests.

 

"Purse" means the financial guarantee or any other remuneration contestants receive for participating in a bout.  It includes the contestant's share of any payment received for radio broadcasting, television or motion picture rights.

 

"Referee" means a person licensed by the Division who is responsible for enforcing the Act and this Part during any bout.

 

"Second" means a person licensed by the Division who attends to the contestant between rounds.

 

"Secretary" means the Secretary of the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation.

 

"Sparring" means boxing or engaging in martial arts or mixed martial arts for practice or exhibition.

 

"Timekeeper" means a person licensed by the Division who is responsible for keeping accurate time during each bout.

 

Section 1370.20  The State of Illinois Athletic Board

 

Each member of the Board shall receive compensation as determined by the Secretary.

 

Section 1370.30  Fees

 

The following fees shall be paid to the Division and are not refundable:

 

a)         Application fees for professional events:

 

1)         The application fee for a license as a promoter is $1000.

 

2)         The application fee for a license as a referee is $300.

 

3)         The application fee for a license as a matchmaker is $250.

 

4)         The application fee for a license as a manager is $200.

 

5)         The application fee for a license as a contestant is $100.

 

6)         The application fee for a license as a timekeeper is $150.

 

7)         The application fee for a license as a judge is $100.

 

8)         The application fee for a license as a second is $50.

 

b)         Application Fees for Promoter of Amateur Events

The application fee for a license as a promoter for a full-contact martial arts contest in which only amateur bouts are to be held is $300.

 

c)         Renewal Fees

 

1)         The renewal fee for a license as a promoter of professional contests shall be calculated at $500 per year.

 

2)         The renewal fee for a license as a promoter of amateur contests shall be calculated at $150 per year.

 

3)         The renewal fee for a license as a referee shall be calculated at $150 per year.

 

4)         The renewal fee for a license as a matchmaker shall be calculated at $125 per year.

 

5)         The renewal fee for a license as a manager shall be calculated at $100 per year.

 

6)         The renewal fee for a license as a contestant shall be calculated at $50 per year.

 

7)         The renewal fee for a license as a timekeeper shall be calculated at $75 per year.

 

8)         The renewal fee for a license as a judge shall be calculated at $50 per year.

 

9)         The renewal fee for a license as a second shall be calculated at $25 per year.

 

d)         Permit Fees

 

1)         The fees for a permit for a contest are determined by the total number of bouts held, using the following fee brackets:

 

A)        Permit for a contest to be held with 3-6 bouts is $500.

 

B)        Permit for a contest to be held with 7-10 bouts is $750.

 

C)        Permit for a contest to be held with 11 or more bouts is $1000.

 

2)         In the event that bouts are added to the contest and the total number of bouts exceeds the current permit fee bracket, the promoter will be responsible for paying the difference in permit fees at the weigh-in or within 24 hours after the contest.  Failure to pay shall result in discipline, including immediate suspension of the promoter's license up to and including revocation of the license. In the event that bouts are cancelled, there will be no refund of permit fees.

 

3)         The fees for an amended permit application when an event location has been changed to a different location will be $250.

 

4)         The fees for a permit for a contest in which only amateur bouts will be held shall be $500.

 

e)         General Fees

 

1)         The fee for the issuance of a duplicate license, for the issuance of a replacement certificate of registration for a certificate of registration that has been lost or destroyed, or for the issuance of a certificate of registration with a change of name or address, other than during the renewal period, is $50.  No fee is required for name and address changes on Division records when no duplicate certificate of registration is issued.

 

2)         The fee for a certification of a licensee's record for any purpose is $50.

 

3)         The fee for a wall certificate showing licensure shall be the actual cost of producing and delivering the certificate.

 

4)         The fee for a roster of persons licensed in this State shall be the actual cost of producing and delivering the roster.

 

5)         The fee for the initial issuance of an Illinois national or federal ID, as described in Section 1370.150(j) or (k), will be $5.  The replacement fee for an Illinois national or federal ID shall be $25. 

 

f)         Fee for Restoration of License after Discipline

 

1)         The restoration fee for a license as a promoter is $1000.

 

2)         The restoration fee for a license as a referee is $300.

 

3)         The restoration fee for a license as a matchmaker is $250.

 

4)         The restoration fee for a license as a manager is $200.

 

5)         The restoration fee for a license as a contestant is $100.

 

6)         The restoration fee for a license as a timekeeper is $150.

 

7)         The restoration fee for a license as a judge is $100.

 

8)         The restoration fee for a license as a second is $50.

 

9)         The restoration fee for a license as a promoter of contests in which only amateur bouts are held is $300.

 

Section 1370.40  Promoters

 

a)         No owner, officer, principal, association, partnership, corporation or limited liability company shall promote any contest without that person or a principal of that business obtaining a license from the Division.

 

b)         Responsibilities of promoters shall include:

 

1)         Full responsibility for all aspects of the contest and for meeting all deadlines for submission of contest permit and promoter licensure applications; and

 

2)         Supervision of their agents, employees and representatives, the conduct of those agents, employees and representatives, and any violation of the Act or this Part related to the contest.  The Division shall deem any violation by an agent, employee or representative of a promoter a violation by the promoter.

 

c)         Promoters shall not permit another to use their license.

 

d)         Promoters shall provide notification to contestants of the weigh-in time and location.  The promoter shall also be responsible for notifying contestants when to report to their dressing room on the day of the contest; that time shall be approved by the Division.

 

e)         Promoters shall provide notification to contestants of proper attire and equipment, as defined in this Part.

 

f)         Promoters shall provide compensation to the referees, physicians, timekeepers and judges in the form of certified checks, money orders, or another Division-approved form of payment.  Compensation for referees, judges, timekeepers and physicians shall be delivered to the Division, prior to commencement of the first bout, at a Division specified time and location.  A Division representative will forward payment to the officials and provide a receipt to the promoter.

 

g)         Promoters shall provide compensation to the contestants.  The promoter shall deliver the purse to each contestant directly after the contestant has competed in his or her scheduled bout in a manner determined by the Division and in the presence of a Division representative.  The Division representative will serve as a witness of the payment of the purse and provide a receipt to the contestant and promoter unless the receipt is declined.

 

h)         Failing to provide payment as set forth in subsections (f) and (g), providing payment on an account that is insufficiently funded, or providing payment more than 24 hours after the conclusion of the contest to the Division, may result in immediate suspension or revocation of the promoter's license or other disciplinary action as the Division may deem proper

 

i)          Promoters shall arrange for at least one ambulance to be on-site, at all times, at each bout, along with 2 licensed emergency medical technicians (EMTs) at least one of whom shall be an emergency medical technician-paramedic (EMT-P), a stretcher, oxygen and proper resuscitation equipment as required by Emergency Medical Services and Trauma Center Code (77 Ill. Adm. Code 515).  No bout shall continue without the presence of the 2 EMTs, at least one of whom shall be an EMT-P, and the equipment required by the Emergency Medical Services and Trauma Code.

 

j)          A promoter may not be a contestant in a contest he or she is promoting.

 

k)         Promoters and organizations associated with the contests shall be deemed to have knowledge of the applicable laws and rules of the State.  The promoter shall be responsible for ensuring that all requirements of this Part are strictly carried out.

 

l)          Promoters shall provide all materials necessary to conduct the contest, including but not limited to such items as:

 

1)         the fighting area;

 

2)         stools, buzzer or whistle, bell or gong, timer, gloves, gauze, tape for hand wraps and properly calibrated scales;

 

3)         a foul proof cup, clean towels, shoe laces, a professional mouthpiece, and medical tape;

 

4)         clean dressing room facilities, including washroom and shower for contestants and officials.  Separate facilities shall be provided for male and female contestants;

 

5)         3 small platforms or elevated chairs for the judges;

 

6)         at minimum, 2 buckets and 2 appropriately sized bottles for use by the contestants;

 

7)         Disposable garbage bags in garbage cans in each dressing room and ring or cageside; and

 

8)         Cleaning solution used to disinfect the ring, cage or other surfaces contaminated by blood, other bodily fluids and debris. There shall be at least one person designated by the promoter who shall be responsible for immediately cleaning blood, other bodily fluids and debris from the ring, fighting area and other areas before, during and after each bout.

 

m)        Promoters shall be responsible for ensuring the maintenance of adequate public safety for all contests.  Failure to ensure adequate public safety may result in cancellation of a contest, discipline against a promoter's license, denial of future contest permits, or any combination of these actions.

 

n)         For adequate public safety, the promoter is responsible for ensuring that no liquid refreshments or bottled or canned drinks, unless poured into disposable cups by vendors at the time of sale, are permitted in any hall or facility where any contest is being held.  If the contest is staged out-of-doors, disposable cups also must be used on the site of the contest.

 

o)         At the discretion of the Division, chairs may be required to be attached so that they are not portable, for the safety of contestants, officials and the public.

 

p)         Spectator seats shall be at least 8 feet from the apron of the fighting area platform or at a distance approved by the Division.  A physical barrier approved by the Division shall be placed 8 feet from the fighting area platform and shall have no more than 4 entry points.  Security shall be placed at each of these entry points.  The space immediately within 8 feet of the fighting area platform shall be under the jurisdiction of the Division for use by designated working officials, contestants, their seconds, timekeepers, judges, referees, physicians, announcers, medical representatives and others approved by the Division.  Promoters are responsible for seeing that the working area is controlled and free of non-essential personnel.

 

Section 1370.50  Judges

 

a)         There shall be 3 judges required for each bout.  All bouts shall be scored by each judge on a 10-point must system (see Sections 1370.570 and 1370.660).

 

b)         Contestants' techniques shall be judged based on the standards of their respective sport.

 

c)         The judges shall reach their decisions without conferring in any manner with any other official or person, including the other judges of the panel.  Each judge shall make out his or her scorecard in accordance with provisions of the rules governing the respective sport.  At the end of the round, the score shall be totaled and signed or initialed by each judge.  The referee working the bout shall collect the score­cards after each round and hand them to the Division representative.

 

d)         Any erasures or changes on the scorecard shall be approved and initialed by the judge and the Division representative.

 

e)         Official scorecards from the Division shall be used and shall be retained in the custody of the Division representative who will transport them to the Division for archiving.

 

f)         The judges selected for the contest and for each bout shall be at the sole discretion of the Division and that determination shall be final.  The Division shall set the amount of compensation to be provided to the judges.

 

g)         Judges shall not show any partiality to any contestant at any time.  There shall be no discussion of any kind among officials or with the public with regard to the decision or contest before or during the bout.  The officials shall not discuss previous bouts while the contest is in progress.

 

Section 1370.60  Inspectors

 

The Division shall determine and assign the number of inspectors at each contest as it deems necessary, with a minimum of 6 inspectors per event. The Division will assign more than 6 inspectors when necessary, as determined by the number of contests being held during the event.

 

a)         In all contests, contestants, promoters, managers, matchmakers, judges, referees, timekeepers, seconds, announcers and physicians at all times shall be under direction of the Division through its designated representatives and inspectors.

 

b)         Employees and inspectors of the Division shall not have, either directly or indirectly, any interest in, or connection with, any promotion of professional contestants or contests in this State.

 

c)         The Division and its inspectors shall supervise the sale of tickets, check the counting of receipts, and enforce the Act and this Part.

 

d)         When printed tickets are presented to the ticket taker, he or she shall immediately deposit every admission ticket, pass or complimentary ticket in a secure box.  It shall be opened only in the presence of the Division inspector, who shall see that all tickets or passes are carefully counted and reported to the Division, along with the price of admission charged for each class of ticket and exchanges and the gross receipts of all tickets.  If printed tickets are otherwise scanned or are electronically processed, a printed record reflecting all of the information required by this subsection shall be provided to the Division.

 

e)         Before the start of a contest, an inspector may check that all contestants, promoters, managers, matchmakers, seconds, timekeepers, referees and physicians are licensed by the Division.  Any of those persons without a current license issued by the Division shall not participate in the contest, unless and until an application and fee have been received and the application is approved by the Division.

 

f)         An inspector shall be present in the dressing rooms at the designated time for observing contestants and inspecting all equipment.

 

g)         All hand wrappings must be approved by an inspector prior to being placed on contestants.  All hand wraps that have been approved must be initialed by the inspector present. 

 

h)         No contestant may be gloved outside the presence of an inspector.  After approval of the gloving, the tape around the strings shall be initialed by the inspector present.

 

i)          The inspector is responsible for warning the seconds of violations of any rules relating to seconds.  If the second does not conduct himself or herself in accordance with the rules, the inspector, referee or Division representative shall warn the second that further violations may result in disqualification of his or her contestant or his or her removal from the corner.

 

j)          Inspectors shall not show any partiality to any contestant at any time.  There shall be no discussion of any kind among inspectors with regard to the decision or contest.  The inspectors shall not discuss previous bouts while the contest is in progress.

 

Section 1370.70  Matchmakers

 

a)         The duties of the matchmaker shall include arranging the bouts and matching the contestants based on weight and experience.

 

b)         All bouts shall be approved by the Division.  The Division may prohibit any bout deemed to be a mismatch based on the record, experience, skill and condition of the contestants as known or represented to the Division at or before the bout or that could expose one or both contestants to serious injury.  Any contestant who has lost his or her last 6 bouts, regardless of type of loss, shall not compete in a bout without prior review and approval of the Division.

 

c)         No matchmaker in a specific contest shall act in the capacity of a manager or second for that specific contest either directly or indirectly.

 

Section 1370.80  Seconds

 

a)         A minimum of 2 seconds per contestant is required.  If requested, a maximum of 5 seconds per contestant may be allowed at the discretion of the Division.  One second shall announce to the referee at the start of the bout that he or she is the chief second.

 

1)         For boxing contests:  Only one second shall be inside the fighting area between rounds; the other 2 seconds may be on the ring platform outside the fighting area.

 

2)         For full-contact martial arts contests:  When the fighting area is enclosed by a cage or similar barrier, up to 2 seconds may be inside the fighting area between rounds.  When the fighting area is enclosed by ropes, only one second shall be inside the fighting area between rounds.

 

b)         Licensed managers shall be permitted to act as seconds without being licensed as a second.  While acting as a second, a manager shall observe all rules pertaining to the conduct of seconds.

 

c)         Seconds shall comply with the following:

 

1)         Seconds shall not stand or lean on the fighting area apron during the round.  Seconds must remain seated during the round.  The second may not sit or lean on the steps leading to the fighting area.

 

2)         Seconds shall not yell.  All coaching must be kept to a minimum.  Continuous warnings may result in one or a combination of the following:  removal of the second, disqualification of the contestant, or discipline of the second.

 

3)         Seconds shall not enter the fighting area until the timekeeper indicates the end of the round.  Seconds must leave the fighting area when the timekeeper indicates 10 seconds before the beginning of the next round.  If the chief second or anyone for whom the chief second is responsible enters the fighting area before the bell ending the round has sounded, his or her license may be subject to discipline and the contestant he or she is handling may be disqualified.  While the round is in progress, the chief second may either mount the apron of the fighting area or otherwise attract the referee's attention, indicating the retirement of the contestant.  A second shall not enter the fighting area unless the referee stops the bout and shall not interfere with a count that is in progress.

 

4)         The chief second shall be responsible for the conduct of his or her assistant seconds during the contest.

 

5)         Good sportsmanship is expected at all times.

 

6)         It is mandatory for seconds to wear disposable rubber, plastic or latex gloves while working in a contestant's corner.

 

7)         Seconds shall not use excessive amounts of water or ice and shall wipe up any water in the fighting area.  Before leaving the fighting area and at the indication of the timekeeper, seconds must remove any obstruction such as buckets, stools, towels and other materials from the corner of the fighting area.

 

8)         Seconds shall be responsible for compliance with Sections 1370.510(b) and 1370.610(b) relating to bandages and handwraps.

 

9)         The second shall be equipped with:

 

A)        A clear plastic bottle or water bottles sufficiently taped;

 

B)        Water;

 

C)        Chopped ice in buckets;

 

D)        Clean towels;

 

E)        Petroleum-based products (e.g., Vaseline);

 

F)         Adhesive tape;

 

G)        Sterile gauze pads;

 

H)        Scissors;

 

I)         Extra mouthpiece;

 

J)         Sterile cotton swabs;

 

K)        Pressure plates; and

 

L)        Any other Division approved equipment.

 

10)       No iron solution shall be used to stop hemorrhaging.  Only the following substances may be used:

 

A)        A solution of adrenaline 1/1000;

 

B)        Avitene;

 

C)        Thrombin; or

 

D)        Any other substance approved by the physician.

 

d)         Any violation of the requirements in subsection (c) of this Section may result in one or a combination of the following:

 

1)         A deduction of points from the second's contestant;

 

2)         Immediate suspension of the second;

 

3)         Ejection of the second from the corner.

 

Section 1370.90  Timekeepers

 

a)         There shall be a timekeeper, licensed by the Division, responsible for keeping track of time during a contest.

 

b)         Timekeepers shall be equipped with a whistle, a knockdown watch, a 3- or

5-minute stopwatch, as appropriate, and a back-up gong or other audible device that has been approved by the Division.

 

c)         Timekeepers must adhere to the following:

 

1)         The timekeeper shall be impartial.  A timekeeper who signals interested parties at any time during bouts shall be subject to discipline.

 

2)         When there are 10 seconds remaining in the rest period between rounds, the timekeeper shall sound a whistle, buzzer or other audible device approved by the Division for such purpose to warn the referee, contestants and seconds of the beginning of the next round.

 

3)         The timekeeper shall indicate the commencing and conclusion of each round by sounding the gong, bell or other audible device approved by the Division for such purpose.  The timekeeper shall also indicate by pounding the fighting area when there are 10 seconds remaining in the round to warn the referee of the end of the round.

 

4)         It is the duty of the timekeeper to keep accurate time of all bouts.  The timekeeper shall keep an exact record of time taken out at the request of a referee for an examination of a contestant by the physician, or the replacement of a glove or adjustment of any equipment during a round and the timekeeper shall report the exact time of a bout being stopped.

 

5)         When applicable, the timekeeper shall be responsible for the knockdown count.  The timekeeper shall begin counting each second during the knock-down count.  If the knockdown occurs within 10 seconds prior to the end of the round, the timekeeper shall not ring the bell, or other audible device approved by the Division for such purpose, until the referee indicates the contestant is ready to continue.

 

6)         There shall be no discussion of any kind among officials with regard to the decision or program.  The officials shall not discuss previous bouts while the program is in progress.

 

7)         The timekeeper selected for each bout shall be at the sole discretion of the Division and that determination shall be final.

 

d)         The Division shall set the amount of compensation to be provided to the timekeeper.  The promoter is responsible for all compensation for the timekeeper.

 

Section 1370.100  Referees

 

a)         The referee is charged with the enforcement of provisions of the Act and this Part that apply to the conduct of contests and the conduct of the contestants and contestant's seconds while in the fighting area.  The referee shall be the chief official and sole arbiter during all bouts.

 

b)         A referee shall be licensed by the Division and shall be selected and assigned to contests by the Division.

 

c)         A referee shall not show partiality to any contestant at any time.

 

d)         A referee shall adhere to the following:

 

1)         When a referee has cause to suspect a violation of the Act or this Part, he or she shall file a report with the Division describing the event.

 

2)         A referee must report for duty at least one hour before the scheduled starting time of the contest.

 

3)         A referee must first report to Division representatives, then to the physician for examination, and shall avoid conversation except with Division officials.

 

4)         Before starting each bout, the referee shall:

 

A)        Check with each judge and timekeeper to determine if each is ready;

 

B)        Ascertain the name of the chief second in each corner; and

 

C)        Verify that the physician is present.

 

5)         At the beginning of the contest, the referee shall call contestants to the center of the ring.  Contestants may be accompanied by their chief second only.

 

6)         It is mandatory for the referee to wear disposable rubber, plastic or latex gloves when refereeing a bout.

 

7)         The referee shall remain in the fighting area for the entire duration of the bout.

 

8)         The referee shall ensure that the contestant stays in his or her corner between rounds.

 

9)         The referee shall hold the chief second responsible for all conduct in his or her corner.

 

e)         In the event a bout terminates before its scheduled number of rounds, the referee shall inform the judges and the Division of the exact duration of the bout.

 

f)         The referee may stop or terminate a bout and render a decision for any of the following reasons:

 

1)         The referee determines that one of the contestants is clearly less experienced or skilled than his or her opponent to the extent that allowing the bout to continue would pose a substantial risk of serious harm or injury to the less experienced or skilled contestant;

 

2)         The referee determines that one of the contestants is at substantial risk of serious harm or injury and, despite such harm or injury, cannot or will not submit, in the case of martial arts or mixed martial arts, or stop fighting in the case of boxing;

 

3)         The referee decides that a contestant is not making his or her best effort;

 

4)         To protect a badly beaten contestant who can no longer protect himself or herself.  When a contestant sustains a cut eye or any other injury that, in the judgment of the referee, may incapacitate the contestant, the referee may call the physician into the fighting area to examine the contestant.  In such cases, the referee shall be guided by the physician's advice;

 

5)         The referee determines that one contestant is hanging helplessly on or over the fighting area enclosure or the contestant is physically unable to continue a match or to defend himself or herself; or

 

6)         For any other reason the referee deems necessary to protect the health, safety or welfare of any contestant or any member of the public.

 

g)         When the fighting area is enclosed by ropes, the referee may stop the bout and require the contestants to resume the action in the center of the fighting area in the same hold the contestants were engaged in at the time the bout was stopped.

 

h)         The referee shall warn or penalize with a deduction of points a contestant who uses the ropes, cage or any other unfair means to gain advantage.

 

i)          Whenever a contestant has been injured, knocked out or technically knocked out, the referee shall immediately summon the attending physician to evaluate the injury of the stricken contestant.  The physician may recommend the bout be stopped.  Except at the request of the physician, no managers or seconds shall be permitted to aid the stricken contestant.

 

j)          The referee or Division representative shall warn the seconds of violations of any rules relating to seconds.  If, after such a warning, the second does not conduct himself or herself in accordance with the rules, the second may be immediately suspended or removed from the corner or his or her contestant may be disqualified.   Further disciplinary or non-disciplinary action may be imposed as the Division deems proper.

 

k)         The referee shall instruct judges to mark their scorecards accordingly when he or she has assessed a foul upon one of the contestants.

 

l)          The referee or Division representative shall deliver the official scorecards to the Division representative.  When picking up the scorecards from the judges, the referee or Division representative shall see to it that the cards are completed and the contestants' and judges' names are recorded.  If not, the judges shall be instructed to complete scorecards correctly.

 

m)        The referee shall ensure that a bout moves to its proper completion.  Delaying or avoiding tactics, or both, should be avoided and the contestant who employs these tactics may be penalized in scoring or disqualified.

 

n)         The referee selected for each bout shall be at the sole discretion of the Division and that determination shall be final.  The promoter is responsible for all compensation for the referee.  The Division shall set the amount of compensation to be provided to the referee.

 

Section 1370.110  Physicians and EMTs

 

a)         Physicians

 

1)         The Division shall appoint at least one physician for all contests.  Additional physicians shall be appointed as determined by the Division.  The physician selected for each contest shall be at the sole discretion of the Division and that determination shall be final.  The promoter is responsible for all compensation for the physician.  The Division shall set the amount of compensation to be provided to the physician.

 

2)         A physician shall perform all physical examinations.

 

3)         The physician shall sit immediately adjacent to the fighting area at every contest with immediate access to the ring or cage.  A contest may not proceed unless the physician is in his or her seat.  The physician shall not leave the venue until after all contestants have left.  If called upon, the physician shall be ready to advise the referee.

 

4)         The physician may enter the fighting area between rounds on his or her own judgment and shall inform the referee about his or her opinion in relation to the physical condition of either contestant.

 

5)         The physician shall coordinate with the EMTs to ensure that the appropriate drugs and medical supplies are available in the event of injury to a contestant.

 

6)         The physician shall report in writing to the Division all injuries received by a contestant immediately following the contest.  The physician shall also report on the fitness of the injured contestants to engage in further competition and determine any medical suspensions.

 

b)         Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs)

 

1)         2 EMTs, one of whom shall be an EMT-P, shall be available to assist the physician and provide emergency medical equipment, including resuscitation equipment.

 

2)         2 EMTs, one of whom shall be an EMT-P, shall be on site, at all times, at each contest, along with a stretcher, oxygen and proper resuscitation equipment.  No contest shall continue without the presence of 2 EMTs, one of whom shall be an EMT-P, and the required equipment.

 

3)         The EMTs are responsible for a comprehensive evacuation plan for the removal of any seriously injured contestant from the contest to a hospital facility where emergency medical care is provided.

 

4)         The EMTs are responsible for knowing the location of the closest hospital emergency facility where adequate neurosurgical care is immediately available for skilled emergency treatment of an injured contestant.

 

5)         The EMTs, at the direction of the physician, must check the vital signs of all contestants prior to their participation in a contest and after contestants complete their bouts.  The EMTs shall record this information on forms provided by the Division.

 

Section 1370.120  Access to Venue

 

The promoter of a contest and officials of the venue shall permit the following persons full access to the site of the contest and the dressing rooms:

 

a)         Any Division employee authorized by the Division;

 

b)         Any authorized firefighters, police officers, security officers and any other authorized individuals assigned to work the event by the Division; and

 

c)         Any referee, judge, timekeeper, physician and medical personnel who are authorized by the Division and are assigned to the event and who present photo identification or an official badge or other credential evidencing that status.

 

Section 1370.130  Safety Requirements and Physical Appearance for Contestants

 

All contestants shall present a clean and tidy appearance and shall comply with the following:

 

a)         Fingernails and toenails shall be sufficiently trimmed to avoid the risk of cutting or scratching an opponent;

 

b)         Hair shall be trimmed or tied back, if possible, or maintained as otherwise directed by the Division representative, so that the hair does not interfere with the vision of the contestant or cover the contestant's eyes.  The Division's representative shall determine whether a contestant's head and facial hair presents any safety hazard to the contestant or his or her opponent or would interfere with the supervision and conduct of the bout;

 

c)         Body grease, gels, balms or lotions applied to any part of a contestant’s body, attire or equipment is prohibited.  Petroleum jelly or other similar petroleum- based product may be applied to the facial area at ring or cage side in the presence of an inspector, referee or person designated by the Division.  The referee or Division representative shall cause any excessive petroleum jelly or other permitted substance or any foreign substance to be removed to his or her satisfaction.  Any contestant applying anything to any part of his or her body, attire or equipment, outside the presence of an inspector, referee or person designated by the Division may be penalized a point or disqualified;

 

d)         No cosmetics shall be worn during a bout;

 

e)         Jewelry or piercing accessories are prohibited;

 

f)         A contestant is prohibited from wearing corrective lenses or contact lenses in the fighting area; and

 

g)         If the head, facial hair or physical appearance of a contestant presents a hazard or will interfere with the supervision and conduct of the contest, the contestant may not compete in the contest unless the circumstances creating the hazard or potential interference are corrected to the satisfaction of the Division or its designee.

 

Section 1370.140  Weigh Ins

 

a)         The weigh-in shall be conducted by an inspector or Division representative at a time and place approved by the Division.

 

b)         Prior to engaging in a contest, all contestants must submit to a weigh-in and a physical examination by the physician at the time and place approved by the Division.

 

1)         The physical examination given to contestants shall include, at a minimum, the following: weight, pulse, blood pressure, examination of the lungs and heart, and general physical condition.

 

2)         Contestants shall disclose all medical history and conditions to the physician during the physical examination.  All female contestants must submit to a pregnancy test at a time and location to be determined by the Division and in the presence of a Division representative.  Any female contestant who tests positive for pregnancy shall be prohibited from fighting.

 

3)         The physician shall conduct examinations and tests necessary to attest to the fitness of the contestants engaged in the contest.  The physician shall certify in writing on a form prescribed by the Division those contestants who are in good physical condition to compete.

 

4)         If, upon physical examination, a contestant is determined by the physician to be unfit for competition, the contestant shall be prohibited from competing during that specific contest.

 

c)         The scale used for the weigh-in shall be provided by the promoter and approved by the Division representative.  The scales must weigh accurately and be capable of weighing up to 10 pounds over the maximum weight of the heaviest contestant scheduled to compete.  The Division may, in its discretion, use the scales furnished by the promoter or use its own scales.  All scales furnished by the promoter shall be thoroughly tested and approved by the representative of the Division prior to being used in connection with any contest.

 

d)         Each contestant shall be weighed in the presence of his or her opponent, unless waived by his or her opponent, a representative of the Division, and an official representing the promoter, on scales approved by the representative of the Division, at any place designated by the Division.  Weigh-ins shall be open to the public.

 

e)         Contestants shall have all weights stripped from their bodies before weigh-in.  Male contestants may wear shorts and socks.  Female contestants may wear shorts, a sports bra and socks.

 

f)         The representative of the Division may require contestants to be weighed more than once for any cause deemed sufficient.

 

g)         Contestants who fail to make the weight for their designated weight class shall be given up to 2 hours to make required weight.  Any contestant who fails to make the weight shall be disqualified unless both contestants consent to participate in the scheduled bout.  The weight differential shall be approved by the Division; bouts may be cancelled per the Division's discretion.

 

h)         At the weigh-in, no contestant may lose more than 3 pounds in less than a 2 hour period.  This rule applies to a second day weigh-in also.  This does not apply to boxing contestants who compete in light heavyweight class and above.

 

i)          For title bouts, contestants may weigh no more than 10 pounds heavier on the day of the bout or contest than their weight at the weigh-in.

 

j)          Contestants who fail to arrive or arrive later than one half hour after the appointed start time of the weigh-in may be disqualified, immediately suspended for no more than 6 months, or both.

 

Section 1370.150  Bouts and Contests

 

a)         All licensed individuals, contestants and organizations associated with the contests shall be deemed to have knowledge of the applicable laws and rules of the State.  Any questions or interpretations shall be referred to the representative of the Division.  If an immediate decision is required, it shall be referred to the Division or its designee who shall make a determination on the matter.  In the event a situation occurs at the contest and there are no regulations in place to cover the situation, the representative of the Division shall make a decision on the matter.  The Division's or its designee's ruling shall be final.  The authority of the Division and the inspectors shall be respected.  No one shall interfere with the inspectors' duties, use foul language towards the inspectors, or make threats of physical harm toward the inspectors.  Any interference, unprofessional conduct, use of foul language, or threats of physical harm towards the inspectors will be cause for disciplinary action.

 

b)         The Division shall approve each bout.

 

c)         No bout shall be advertised or promoted as a championship bout unless it has the specific approval of the Division.

 

d)         Contestants shall at all times abide by the Act and this Part.

 

e)         Contestants shall at all times observe the directions and decisions of all officials.

 

f)         All contestants shall have a pre- and post-bout physical conducted by a physician to attest to the contestant's physical fitness to compete.

 

g)         A minimum of one day prior to the date of the contest, each contestant shall provide to the Division medical test results dated no more than 6 months prior to the date of the contest.  Medical tests shall include, but not be limited to, the following:

 

1)         Complete annual physical examination;

 

2)         A blood test that verifies the applicant is HIV negative (quantitative RNA);

 

3)         A blood test that verifies the applicant is Hepatitis B (HBsAg) negative;

 

4)         A blood test that verifies the applicant is Hepatitis C (HCVAb) negative; and

 

5)         Any other test the Department or event physician may require.

 

h)         The Division may request the contestant provide a CAT scan (CT) with contrast MRI or MRI/MRA examination when a contestant:

 

1)        Has lost 3 bouts in a row by KO or TKO;

 

2)        Has lost five bouts in a row;

 

3)        Has an extensive losing record; or

 

4)        In any other circumstances that lead the Division to determine that the health, safety or welfare of the contestant may be at risk. 

 

i)          Any contestant who has lost his or her last 6 bouts, regardless of the type of loss, shall not compete in a bout without prior review and approval of the Division.

 

j)          All mixed martial arts contestants must have a current national identification number issued by any state, tribal athletic commission, territory, federal agency or county recognized by the Association of Boxing Commissions in order to compete in a contest.  If the contestant has not applied for or does not have a current national identification number, he or she shall apply or re-apply for one and pay the required fee per the issuing state's fee schedule.

 

k)         All boxing contestants must have a federal identification number issued by any state, tribal athletic commission, territory, federal agency or county recognized by the Association of Boxing Commissions in order to compete in a contest. If a contestant has not applied for or does not have a current federal identification number, he or she shall apply or re-apply for one and pay the required fee per the issuing state's fee schedule.

 

l)          A contestant shall not compete in more than one contest within a 15 day period.  The Division may determine that more time between contests is necessary to protect the health and safety of the contestant.

 

m)        Each contestant shall report to the representative of the Division in the dressing rooms at least one hour before the scheduled time of the first bout of the contest. 

Failure to do so may result in the contestant being disallowed to participate in the bout.

 

n)         The administration or use of any drugs or stimulants prohibited by Section 1370.230, either before or during a bout, to or by any contestant is prohibited.  Any contestant violating this subsection shall be subject to disqualification and immediate suspension under Section 1370.190.

 

o)         During a bout or contest, contestants shall only be permitted to drink water.  No other fluids shall be permitted.

 

p)         Before starting a bout, the referee shall ascertain from each contestant the name of his or her chief second who shall be held responsible for the conduct of the assistant seconds during the progress of the bout.  The referee shall call contestants together before each bout for final instructions, at which time each contestant shall be accompanied by the chief second only.

 

q)         The 3 judges shall be stationed at the sides immediately adjacent to the fighting area, each at a separate side.  The judges shall turn scorecards over to the referee  or Division representative after each round.  The referee or Division representative shall then hand the scorecards to the Division or an official it has designated.  A final decision shall be made before the judges may leave the area.  Any erasures or changes on the card shall be approved and initialed by the judge and Division or its designee.

 

r)          After receiving instructions, the contestants may shake hands and retire to their corners.

 

s)         The contestants and the referee shall be the only persons allowed in the fighting area during the progress of a round.  When the referee calls a timeout, he or she may permit the physician to enter the fighting area.

 

t)          Under no circumstances shall a contest be held with fewer than 3 bouts.

 

u)         Contests with Both Professional and Amateur Bouts

 

1)         If amateur bouts and professional bouts are scheduled during the same contest or event, the professional bouts shall be approved and scheduled as determined by the Division.

 

2)         There shall be a minimum of one amateur bout and a minimum of 3 professional bouts.

 

3)         There shall be no less than 15 minutes and no more than 30 minutes, as determined by the Division under the Act and this Part, between the amateur and professional bouts.

 

4)         The Division or its designee shall have sole discretion to reassign officials such as physicians, referees, judges and timekeepers, who have been assigned to the professional bouts, to the amateur bouts scheduled during the same event.  

 

v)         The contest shall commence no later than 30 minutes after the start time stated on the contest permit unless otherwise approved by the Division.

 

w)        Any person who has competed in any professional contest shall not participate in any amateur contest of the same discipline in the State of Illinois.  The Division may discipline a registrant or the license of any contestant, promoter, manager, matchmaker or second who violates, or assists or enables another to violate, the provisions of this subsection.

 

x)         The promoter shall provide an adequate room for the attending physician to conduct physical examinations.  Whenever a contestant, because of illness or injuries, is unable to take part in a contracted bout, the contestant or the manager shall immediately report that fact to the inspector.  The contestant shall then submit to an examination by a physician designated by the Division.

 

y)         Tables immediately surrounding the fighting area shall be no higher than the level of the fighting area platform. 

 

z)         The gong, bell, buzzer, horn or other audible device approved by the Division shall be sufficiently loud so that the officials and contestant can hear it clearly.  The 10 second warning before the start of a round may be by whistle or by gong, bell, buzzer, horn or other audible device approved by the Division for that purpose.

 

aa)       The promoter may provide video screens during any bout or contest that meets the approval of the Division and that allows patrons to view the action inside the fighting area without obstruction.  Video screens may also be provided to officials for use during a bout.

 

bb)       The Division shall not release the names of officials assigned to an event until the day of the event or at another time deemed appropriate by the Division.

 

Section 1370.160  Manager-Contestant Contracts

 

a)         A manager and contestant shall file their contract with the Division.

 

b)         The Division shall recognize the filed document until such time as both parties appear before the Division to cancel the contract, or a court of law notifies the Division that the contract is null and void.

 

Section 1370.170  Tickets and Payment of Taxes

 

a)         The right of admission to view a contest in person shall not be sold or otherwise granted to a person or entity unless that person or entity is provided with a ticket.

 

b)         The Division shall have supervision over the sales of tickets, ticket boxes, entrances and exits for the purpose of checking admission controls.  The Division shall ensure that all tickets are counted and that the final accounting includes the:

 

1)         number of complimentary tickets;

 

2)         face value of each ticket;

 

3)         total number of each ticket price category sold; and

 

4)         gross receipts from all ticket sales.

 

c)         Every ticket shall be printed with the price, the name of the promoter and the date of the contest.  Unless otherwise authorized by the Division, the ticket stub of each ticket shall indicate the price of the ticket.  All complimentary tickets shall be printed as such or reflect a zero dollar value.

 

d)         A promoter shall not issue complimentary tickets for professional or professional and amateur combined contests for more than 4% of the seats in the house.  The promoter shall be responsible to pay the taxes provided for in Section 13 of the Act for all complimentary tickets over and above the 4% cap on complimentary tickets.  If the Division approves the issuance of complimentary tickets over and above the 4% cap, the complimentary tickets that are exempt from the tax shall be based on the lowest value of sold tickets distributed.

 

e)         To facilitate assessment of the taxes required to be paid by the promoter pursuant to Section 13 of the Act, the following procedures shall be followed:

 

1)         Tickets shall be printed in a format approved by the Division.

 

2)         7 days prior to a contest, the promoter shall submit to the Division a notarized printer's manifest for the amount and price of tickets printed for a contest.  General admission tickets shall be consecutively numbered.  When available, an electronic printout is to be given to a Division representative on the day of a contest.  No tickets of admission to that contest shall be sold except tickets declared on the notarized printer's manifest.

 

3)         The total number of tickets printed shall not exceed the total seating capacity of the premises where the contest is to be held.

 

4)         The final accounting of printed tickets shall be completed by the promoter on an official ticket inventory prior to or during the last bout and provided to the Division.  Taxes shall be assessed and collected on all the printed face value of the tickets declared on the official ticket inventory.  Taxes shall also be assessed and collected for all unaccounted tickets.

 

5)         No ticket holder shall pass through the gate without having the ticket separated from the stub or otherwise accounted for.  However, members of the news media assigned to work by their regular employers, as approved by the promoter, policemen and firemen in uniform and on duty, and persons of similar vocation are admitted free and the promoter shall not be liable for any tax for their admission.

 

6)         When it is determined that a promoter has made an incorrect statement of gate receipts, has used tickets not appearing on the inventory, or by any subterfuge purports to reduce the amount of tax due under the law, discipline of the promoter's license, up to and including revocation, and forfeiture of bond may occur.

 

Section 1370.180  Prohibited Contests

 

a)         Any licensee holding or promoting a contest for which no permit has been issued by the Division, or participating in such a contest as a promoter, contestant, second, referee, judge, manager, trainer, announcer or timekeeper, may be subject to discipline pursuant to Section 16 of the Act.

 

b)         The Division shall enter an order to cease and desist to any individual or entity involved in a contest for which no permit has been issued by the Division.  If the individual or entity fails to comply with the order, the Division may send the order to the Attorney General or State's Attorney for civil or criminal enforcement with respect to prohibited contests, or the Division may file a complaint for imposition of civil penalties for violation of the Act.

 

Section 1370.190  Disciplinary Action

 

a)         All licensees may be disciplined for any violation of the Act or this Part.

 

b)         The administration or use of any drugs, alcohol or stimulants, or injections in any part of the body or applied topically to any part of the body, either before or during a bout, to or by any contestant is prohibited.  Any contestant violating this Section shall be subject to disqualification or other disciplinary or non-disciplinary action as the Division may deem proper.

 

c)         The Division or its designee may order the purse withheld from a contestant for failing to perform to the best of his or her ability.  The contestant may request a hearing in writing within 15 days after the contest to determine the amount of the purse, if any, that will be transferred to the contestant.  The purse shall be returned to the promoter 15 days after the contest if no hearing is requested.  The hearing shall be held within 30 days after the date the request is received by the Division.  When a hearing is held, any amount of purse not awarded to the contestant shall be returned to the promoter.

 

d)         If a licensed contestant or contestant that has fought in any event not approved by the Division then competes against an amateur contestant, he or she may be immediately suspended for a period of not more than one year.

 

e)         A contestant who refuses to fight or fails to appear at the weigh-in or in the bout for which he or she signed a bout agreement shall be immediately suspended for not more than 6 months.  The Division may terminate the suspension if the contestant is released from the bout agreement by mutual agreement between the contestant and the promoter.  The promoter shall provide the Department notice of this agreement of release in writing.

 

f)         If, prior to a bout, a contestant files a certificate from a physician stating that the contestant is unable to fulfill a bout agreement because of physical disability, the contestant shall be immediately placed on a medical suspension for 60 days and be reinstated from the suspension in the same manner as provided for in Section 25.1 of the Act.

 

g)         A promoter's license may be immediately suspended for failure to pay taxes as required by Section 13 of the Act.  Any promoter whose license has been suspended shall not promote a contest until he or she has shown the Division proof that any outstanding taxes have been paid in full.  A promoter's license may be subject to further discipline for late payment of taxes.

 

h)         A promoter's license may be immediately suspended until payment of compensation is made to contestants and other participants.  Any promoter whose license has been suspended pursuant to this subsection shall not promote a contest until he or she has satisfied any disciplinary requirements imposed by the Division.  A promoter's license may be subject to further discipline for late payment of compensation.

 

i)          The Division may immediately suspend the license of any licensee who misrepresents or falsifies information, data or documentation for application or other purposes. The Division may immediately report any action taken against a licensee to any keeper of records.

 

j)          Any registrant who misrepresents or falsifies information, data or documentation for registration or other purposes shall void his or her registration. The Division may deny future registration or licensure to that registrant. The Division may immediately report the voiding or denial of that registration to any keeper of records.

 

k)         A promoter, contestant, manager, second or representative of the contestant may not verbally harass, physically abuse, throw any object at, or make illicit gestures toward any person present at the venue, including, but not limited to, officials, inspectors or other Division representatives before, during or after any contest.  Any promoter, contestant, manager, second or any representative of the contestant violating this Part may be immediately suspended or subject to any other disciplinary or non-disciplinary action the Division deems proper.

 

l)          Throwing the mouthpiece into the audience during or after the contest may result in an immediate suspension or subject the offender to any other disciplinary or non-disciplinary action the Division deems proper.

 

m)        No contestant or promoter may play any type of entrance theme that includes music, video or any type of physical display that contains any profane, offensive or derogatory remarks.  Anyone violating this subsection may be immediately suspended or subject to any other disciplinary or non-disciplinary action the Division deems proper.

 

n)         When a bout is cancelled because a contestant fails to make the required weight listed in his or her contestant/promoter contract, the contestant shall be subject to a fine not to exceed 25% of the purse amount and any other disciplinary or non-disciplinary action the Division deems proper.  The contestant may request a hearing in writing within 15 days after the contest to appeal the suspension.  The hearing shall be held within 30 days after the date the request for hearing is received by the Division. 

 

o)         In instances in which the Division immediately suspends or revokes a license, a hearing must be commenced within 30 days after the suspension and completed without appreciable delay.  A license suspended pursuant to this Section may be subject to further discipline for violation of the Act and/or this Part.

 

Section 1370.200  Suspensions and Mandatory Rest Periods

 

a)         The Division shall report all contestants' suspensions and mandatory rest periods to Fight Fax, Mixedmartialarts.com (the official recordkeepers designated by the Association of Boxing Commissions (ABC)) or other recordkeeper designated by the Division.

 

1)         Physician's Suspension

 

A)        A licensee who is determined by the physician to be unfit to compete or officiate shall be immediately suspended until it is shown that he or she is fit for further competition or officiating.

 

B)        Prior to reinstatement, any contestant suspended for his or her medical protection shall satisfactorily pass a medical examination upon the direction of the Division.  The examining physician may require any necessary medical procedures during the examination.

 

C)        Failure to report or comply with the post-contest examination by the physician will result in a minimum suspension of 90 days.

 

2)         Knockout Suspension

In the event of a knockout (KO) by a blow to the head, the contestant shall be immediately suspended for a period of not less than 45 days.  The Division may also suspend a contestant from contact sparring.

 

3)         Technical Knockout Suspension

In the event of a technical knockout (TKO), the contestant shall be immediately suspended for a period of not less than 30 days.  The Division may also suspend a contestant from contact sparring.

 

4)         Disqualification Suspension

In the event a contestant is disqualified for any reason, that contestant shall be suspended for a minimum of 45 days.  The Division may also suspend a contestant from contact sparring.

 

b)         A contestant shall not compete until 15 days have elapsed from his or her last bout.  The 15 day period starts the day following the event in which he or she competed.  The license of any contestant found to be competing during the 15 day rest period shall be immediately suspended.

 

c)         The Division shall honor the suspension of a contestant by any state, tribal athletic commission, territory, federal agency or county that regulates contests in another jurisdiction if the suspension is ordered for:

 

1)         Medical safety;

 

2)         A violation of a law or regulation governing boxing or full-contact martial arts that would constitute a violation of the laws or regulations of this State; or

 

3)         Any other conduct that discredits boxing or full-contact martial arts, as determined by the Division.

 

Section 1370.210  Renewals

 

a)         Every license issued under the Act shall expire on September 30 of each odd numbered year.  The holder of a license may renew the license during the month preceding the expiration date by paying the required fee and completing any required forms.

 

b)         Licensed contestants shall provide with their renewal proof of completion of any required certification courses and a complete physical examination by a physician as specified in Sections 1370.440 and 1370.460 (license application process).  Failure to provide the proof shall result in expiration of the license.  No contestant may participate in any contest while his or her license is expired.

 

c)         A contestant over age 35 who has not competed in a contest within the last 36 months, or other period determined by the Division, may be required to appear before the Board to determine, on a case-by-case basis, his or her fitness to participate in a contest.

 

d)         It is the responsibility of each licensee to notify the Division of any change of address in writing within 30 days after the change becomes effective.  Failure to receive a renewal form from the Division shall not constitute an excuse for failure to renew a license.

 

e)         A licensee who changes his or her name must notify the Division in writing within 30 days after the change becomes effective.  Licensees are required to submit legal documentation proving the name change.

 

Section 1370.220  Administration or Use of Drugs

 

a)         The administration or use of any drugs, alcohol or stimulants, or injections in any part of the body or applied topically to any part of the body, either before or during a bout, to or by any contestant is prohibited.  Any contestant violating this Section shall be subject to disqualification or other disciplinary or non-disciplinary action the Division deems proper.

 

b)         The Division may request, at any time, that a contestant submit to a drug screen at the contestant's expense when the test is ordered for a permitted contest. 

 

c)         A person who applies for or holds a license as a professional contestant and who has at any time had a positive drug test confirmed by any state, tribal athletic commission, territory, federal agency or county that regulates contests in another jurisdiction for any substance described in subsection (c) shall be required as a condition of licensure or renewal to provide a urine specimen. In addition, contestants shall provide a urine specimen for drug testing either before or after the bout, as directed by the Division representative.

 

d)         A positive test for any of the following substances shall be conclusive evidence of a violation of subsection (a):

 

1)         Stimulants

 

2)         Narcotics

 

3)         Cannabinoids (marijuana)

 

4)         Anabolic agents (exogenous and endogenous)

 

5)         Peptide hormones

 

6)         Masking agents

 

7)         Diuretics

 

8)         Glucocorticosteroids

 

9)         Beta-2 agonists (asthma medications) except salbutamol (maximum 1600 micrograms over 24 hours) and salmeterol by inhalation

 

10)        Anti-estrogenic agents

 

11)         Alcohol

 

12)         Any drug identified on the Prohibited List published by the World Anti-Doping Agency (2012), which is hereby incorporated by reference. The most current edition of the Prohibited List may be obtained, free of charge, from the World Anti-Doping Agency, Stock Exchange Tower, 800 Place Victoria, Suite 1700, PO Box 120, Montreal, Quebec, Canada, H4Z 1B7 or at www.wada-ama.org. This incorporation includes no later editions or amendments.

 

Section 1370.230  Therapeutic Use Exemption

 

a)         An applicant, licensee or registrant who believes he or she has a therapeutic reason to use a substance described in Section 1370.220(d) may request a therapeutic use exemption (TUE) to permit continued use of that substance. Such a request may only be granted by the Division. The applicant or licensee shall submit the request in writing to the Division. The request shall be accompanied by supporting medical information sufficient to allow the Division to determine whether to grant the request. In reaching its decision, the Division will, at a minimum, determine whether all of the following criteria have been met:

 

1)         The applicant or licensee would experience a significant impairment to health if the prohibited substance were to be withheld in the course of treating an acute or chronic medical condition;

 

2)         The therapeutic use of the prohibited substance would produce no additional enhancement of performance other than that which might be anticipated by a return to a state of normal health following the treatment of a legitimate medical condition;

 

3)         Either reasonable therapeutic alternatives to the use of the otherwise prohibited substance have been tried or no reasonable alternative exists; and

 

4)         The necessity for the use of the otherwise prohibited substance is not a consequence, wholly or in part, of a prior non-therapeutic use of any substance described in Section 1370.220(d).

 

b)         The Division may, in its sole discretion, either grant or deny the request based on the criteria in subsections (a)(1) through (4).

 

c)         Failure to disclose the use of a substance described in Section 1370.220(d) constitutes a violation of Section 1370.220(a).

 

Section 1370.240  Granting Variances

 

The Director may grant variances from this Part in individual cases when he or she finds that:

 

a)         The provision from which the variance is granted is not statutorily mandated;

 

b)         No party will be injured by the granting of the variance; and

 

c)         The rule from which the variance is granted would, in the particular case, be unreasonable or unnecessarily burdensome.

SUBPART B: APPLICATION FOR PERMIT FOR A PROFESSIONAL CONTEST, AN AMATEUR CONTEST OR COMBINATION OF BOTH

 

Section 1370.300  Application for a Permit

 

a)         Permits shall not be issued for applications listing less than 3 bouts.

 

b)         A promoter shall submit a completed application for a permit to conduct a contest on forms supplied by the Division at least 20 days prior to the scheduled event.  The application shall include:

 

1)         The legal names, addresses, phone numbers, fax numbers (if available) and email addresses (if available) of the promoter and matchmaker;

 

2)         The time, date and location of the contest;

 

3)         The seating capacity of the location where the contest is to be held;

 

4)         A copy of the written agreement for use of the venue by the promoter or proof of ownership of venue by the promoter;

 

5)         The admission charge or charges to be made;

 

6)         Proof of sufficient security in compliance with the Private Detective, Private Alarm, Private Security, Fingerprint Vendor and Locksmith Act of 2004 [225 ILCS 447];

 

7)         The name, address and phone number of the nearest hospital with a neurosurgical unit;

 

8)         A letter or other written statement indicating the weigh-in location, date and time, which shall be subject to the approval of the Division;

 

9)         Proof of contract indicating the requisite registration and sanctioning by a Division approved sanctioning body for any full-contact martial arts contest with scheduled amateur bouts;

 

10)         Organizational or internationally accepted rules, per discipline, for professional or amateur full-contact martial arts contests for which the Division does not provide the rules of competition; and

 

11)        The required fee set forth in Section 1370.30.

 

c)         Permit fees are non-refundable.

 

d)         The promoter may request, in writing, to amend the permit application to hold a professional or amateur contest or combination of both in a location different than the location the original application stated.  The promoter shall obtain prior written approval from the Division for any venue changes for the contest.  Under Section 1370.30, the Division requires additional permit fees for any venue change.

 

e)         The promoter shall obtain a new permit from the Division for any change of date for a previously issued permit.  The original permit shall be deemed null and void once the new permit is issued.

 

f)         A minimum of 10 days prior to the contest, the promoter shall submit the following to the Division:

 

1)         The names of the ringside physicians and their respective license numbers;

 

2)         The names of the contestants and current information from an official recordkeeper designated by the Division such as Fight Fax, Mixedmartialarts.com or any equivalent determined by the Division;

 

3)         A completed ambulance agreement letter;

 

4)         Written notice to the Division indicating the name of the announcer for the contest.  The announcer shall be subject to approval by the Division; and

 

5)         Proof of insurance required by Section 8 of the Act:

 

A)        Contestant's accidental death and dismemberment insurance for not less than $25,000, with any deductible paid by the promoter;

 

B)        Contestant's excess medical insurance for not less than $25,000,  with any deductible paid by the promoter;

 

C)        Public liability insurance, with a $1,000,000 minimum;

 

D)        Property damage insurance, with $25,000 minimum.

 

g)         Five days prior to the contest, the promoter shall submit to the Division a notarized printer's manifest for the amount and price of tickets printed for contest promotions.  General admission tickets shall be consecutively numbered.  When available, an electronic printout is to be given to a Division representative on the day of the show.  All complimentary tickets shall designate that they are complimentary or reflect a zero dollar value.

 

h)         At least one day prior to the contest, the promoter shall submit to the Division

a copy of the contracts, including replacement bout contracts, for the bouts, which shall be signed by the promoter, contestant and manager, if applicable.

 

i)          Within 24 hours prior to the event, the promoter shall provide to the Division the payments for the officials, as required by Section 1370.40(f).

 

j)          The Division will not approve permits for:

 

1)         Bouts between members of the opposite sex;

 

2)         Bouts between professional and amateur contestants;

 

3)         Bouts between human contestants and nonhumans; or

 

4)         Contests with more than 2 contestants competing in the same bout.

 

k)         The Division may, in its discretion, deny an application for a permit or grant a limited, restricted or conditional permit. Instances in which the Division may take these actions include, but are not limited to:

 

1)         instances in which  the Division determines that denying or restricting a permit is in the best interest of the contestants, officials, or public's health, welfare and safety; or

 

2)         when a formal complaint has been filed against the promoter requesting the permit or when a complaint relates to the request to permit the event.

 

l)          No promoter, official or contestant shall serve in any capacity at a contest for which the Division has denied a permit or for which a permit has not been issued.  Participation in non-permitted contests may be grounds for discipline.

 

m)        The promoter must have an approved permit before any advertisement, publicity or other public announcement is issued for the contest unless there is prominently displayed a disclaimer stating that the contest has not yet been approved.  Violation of this provision may be grounds for discipline.

SUBPART C: PROVISIONS FOR BOXING AND FULL-CONTACT MARTIAL ARTS LICENSING

 

Section 1370.400  Application for License as a Promoter

 

a)         Promoters shall be separately licensed for either boxing or full-contact martial arts.

 

b)         Promoters shall be separately licensed as either a promoter of professional contests or a promoter of amateur contests.

 

c)         All promoters must be licensed.

 

d)         An applicant must be at least 18 years of age.

 

e)         An applicant for licensure as a promoter shall file a completed, signed application with the Division, on forms provided by the Division, that includes:

 

1)         A copy of a current government issued photo identification (e.g., driver's license, passport);

 

2)         Proof of a surety bond of no less than $5,000, as required by Section 11 of the Act, to cover financial obligations;

 

3)         a $10,000 performance bond guaranteeing payment of all obligations relating to the promotional activities;

 

4)         Proof of good moral character.  The applicant shall notify the Division of any criminal convictions other than minor traffic violations.  The Division may consider any criminal convictions or discipline in another jurisdiction in which the applicant is licensed when determining if the applicant is qualified for licensure;

 

5)         One passport size photo; and

 

6)         The required fee set forth in Section 1370.30.

 

f)         When the accuracy or sufficiency of any submitted documentation is questioned by the Division or the Board because of lack of information, discrepancies or conflicts in information given or a need for clarification, the applicant seeking licensure may be requested to:

 

1)         Provide the necessary information; and/or

 

2)         Appear for an interview before the Division to clarify information or clear up any discrepancies or conflicts in information.

 

g)         The Division may deny an application for licensure if, without limitation, the applicant fails to meet the qualifications specified in this Section, fails to pass a required examination or certification course, or otherwise fails to complete requirements to the satisfaction of the Division.

 

Section 1370.410  Application for License as a Matchmaker

 

a)         Matchmakers shall be separately licensed for either boxing or full-contact martial arts.

 

b)         All matchmakers must be licensed.

 

c)         An applicant for a license shall complete an application provided by the Division.

 

d)         An applicant must be at least 18 years of age.

 

e)         Licensees shall comply with all applicable federal regulations governing boxing or full-contact martial arts.

 

f)         Applications for licensure as a matchmaker shall include:

 

1)         A copy of a current government issued photo identification (e.g., driver's license, passport);

 

2)         Proof that the applicant has matched contestants in a minimum of 5 amateur or professional contests.  The Division may examine any applicant for licensure as a matchmaker to determine whether the applicant has sufficient knowledge of the sport and is otherwise competent to perform as a matchmaker;

 

3)         Proof of good moral character.  The applicant shall notify the Division of any criminal convictions other than minor traffic violations.  The Division may consider any criminal convictions or discipline in another jurisdiction in which the applicant is licensed when determining if the applicant is qualified for licensure;

 

4)         One passport size photo; and

 

5)         The required fee set forth in Section 1370.30.

 

g)         When the accuracy or sufficiency of any submitted documentation of stated experience is questioned by the Division or the Board because of lack of information, discrepancies or conflicts in information given or a need for clarification, the applicant seeking licensure may be requested to:

 

1)         Provide the necessary information; and/or

 

2)         Appear for an interview before the Division to clarify information or clear up any discrepancies or conflicts in information.

 

h)         The Division may deny an application for licensure if, without limitation, the applicant fails to meet the qualifications specified in this Section, fails to pass a required examination or certification course, or otherwise fails to complete requirements to the satisfaction of the Division.

 

Section 1370.420  Application for License as a Manager

 

a)         Managers shall be separately licensed for either boxing or full-contact martial arts.

 

b)         All managers shall be licensed.

 

c)         An applicant for a license shall complete an application provided by the Division.

 

d)         An applicant must be at least 18 years of age.

 

e)         Licensees shall comply with all applicable federal regulations governing boxing or full-contact martial arts.

 

f)         Proof of good moral character.  The applicant shall notify the Division of any criminal convictions other than minor traffic violations.  The Division may consider any criminal convictions or discipline in another jurisdiction in which the applicant is licensed when determining if the applicant is qualified for licensure.

 

g)         The applications for licensure as a manager shall include, but not be limited to:

 

1)         a copy of current government issued photo identification (e.g., driver's license, passport);

 

2)         One passport size photo; and

 

3)         The required fee set forth in Section 1370.30.

 

h)         When the accuracy or sufficiency of any submitted documentation of stated experience is questioned by the Division or the Board because of lack of information, discrepancies or conflicts in information given or a need for clarification, the applicant seeking licensure may be requested to:

 

1)         Provide the necessary information; and/or

 

2)         Appear for an interview before the Division to clarify information or clear up any discrepancies or conflicts in information.

 

i)          The Division may deny an application for licensure if, without limitation, the applicant fails to meet the qualifications specified in this Section, fails to pass a required examination or certification course, or otherwise fails to complete requirements to the satisfaction of the Division.

 

Section 1370.430  Application for License as a Second

 

a)         Seconds shall be separately licensed for either boxing or full-contact martial arts.

 

b)         All seconds must be licensed.

 

c)         An applicant for a license shall complete an application provided by the Division.

 

d)         An applicant must be at least 18 years of age.

 

e)         Licensees shall comply with all applicable federal regulations governing boxing or full-contact martial arts.

 

f)         The application for licensure as a second shall include:

 

1)         A copy of a current government issued photo identification (e.g., driver's license, passport);

 

2)         Proof of good moral character.  The applicant shall notify the Division of any criminal convictions other than minor traffic violations.  The Division may consider any criminal convictions or discipline in another jurisdiction in which the applicant is licensed when determining if the applicant is qualified for licensure;

 

3)         One passport size photo; and

 

4)         The required fee set forth in Section 1370.30.

 

g)         When the accuracy or sufficiency of any submitted documentation of stated experience is questioned by the Division because of lack of information, discrepancies or conflicts in information given or a need for clarification, the applicant seeking licensure may be requested to:

 

1)         Provide the necessary information; and/or

 

2)         Appear for an interview before the Division to clarify information or clear up any discrepancies or conflicts in information.

 

h)         The Division may deny an application for licensure if, without limitation, the applicant fails to meet the qualifications specified in this Section, fails to pass a required examination or certification course, or otherwise fails to complete requirements to the satisfaction of the Division.

 

Section 1370.440  Application for License as a Boxing Contestant

 

a)         The Division may deny an application for licensure if the applicant fails to meet the qualifications specified in this Section, fails to pass a required examination, or otherwise fails to complete training to the satisfaction of the Division.

 

b)         No contestant shall participate in a contest without being licensed.

 

c)         Contestants shall be separately licensed for either boxing or full-contact martial arts.

 

d)         An applicant for a license shall complete an application provided by the Division.

 

e)         An applicant must be at least 18 years of age.

 

f)         An applicant must show proof of State residency.

 

g)         An applicant shall disclose in writing, on a form provided by the Division, a complete medical history, including any prior or existing medical conditions.

 

h)         All costs involved with medical examinations and/or tests required in this Section shall be the responsibility of the applicant.

 

i)          Licensees shall comply with all applicable federal regulations governing boxing.

 

j)          Proof of good moral character.  The applicant shall notify the Division of any criminal convictions other than minor traffic violations.  The Division may consider any criminal convictions or discipline in another jurisdiction in which the applicant is licensed when determining if the applicant is qualified for licensure.

 

k)         When the accuracy or sufficiency of any submitted documentation of stated experience is questioned by the Division or the Board because of lack of information, discrepancies or conflicts in information given or a need for clarification, the applicant seeking licensure may be requested to:

 

1)         Provide the necessary information; and/or

 

2)         Appear for an interview before the Board to clarify information or clear up any discrepancies or conflicts in information.

 

l)          Applications for licensure as a contestant shall be completed on forms provided by the Division and shall include without limitation:

 

1)         A copy of current government issued photo identification (e.g., driver's license, passport);

 

2)         Proof of age (e.g., driver's license or copy of birth certificate);

 

3)         Social Security Number or tax identification number, as appropriate;

 

4)         Documentation of a minimum of 2 years of boxing experience as an amateur or professional, including the total number of bouts and a breakdown of wins and losses.  The applicant shall have a minimum of 20 bouts or demonstrate exceptional fighting ability, as determined by the Division, based on the applicant's competition and training history;

 

5)         One passport size photo; and

 

6)         The required fee set forth in Section 1370.30.

 

m)        All contestants must submit proof of completion of a complete physical examination by a physician.  All physical examination and laboratory results submitted shall be dated no more than 6 months prior to the date of application.  The examining physician shall conduct examinations and tests necessary to attest to the fitness of the applicant to engage in contests.  Physical examinations of female contestants shall also include a pelvic, abdominal and breast exam.

 

n)         Each applicant shall provide medical test results to the Division, dated no more than 6 months prior to the date of application, that shall include without limitation:

 

1)         Complete physical examination;

 

2)         Any results of an MRI report and cerebral magnetic resonance angiography dated within the last 5 years;

 

3)         A blood test that verifies the applicant is HIV negative (quantitative RNA);

 

4)         A blood test that verifies the applicant is Hepatitis B (HBsAg) negative;

 

5)         A blood test that verifies the applicant is Hepatitis C (HCVAb) negative;

 

6)         An eye examination by an optometrist or a physician licensed to practice medicine in all its branches who specializes in ophthalmology with results of dilated eye exam; and

 

7)          Any other test a physician may require.

 

o)         A contestant over age 35 who has not competed in a contest within the last 36 months, or as otherwise determined by the Division, may be required to appear before the Board to determine his or her fitness to participate in a contest.

 

p)         The Division may deny a contestant a license if the contestant's license to participate or compete as a contestant has been denied, refused or disciplined for a medical condition by another state, tribal athletic commission, territory, federal agency or county. 

 

q)         If an applicant for licensure has suffered a serious head injury, including but not limited to a cerebral hemorrhage, the applicant must have his or her application for licensure or renewal reviewed by the Division before a license is issued or renewed.

 

r)          The Division will not issue or renew a license to an applicant who is found to be blind in one eye or whose vision in one eye is so poor that a physician recommends that the license not be granted or renewed.  This subsection is effective regardless of the acuity of vision the applicant may have in the other eye.

 

Section 1370.450  Application for  License as a Timekeeper, Referee or Judge – Boxing

 

a)         The Division may deny an application for licensure if the applicant fails to meet the qualifications specified in this Section, fails to pass a required examination, or otherwise fails to complete training to the satisfaction of the Division.

 

b)         All timekeepers, referees or judges shall be licensed.

 

c)         Timekeepers, referees and judges shall be separately licensed for either boxing or full-contact martial arts.

 

d)         An applicant for a license shall complete an application provided by the Division.

 

e)         An applicant must be at least 18 years of age.

 

f)         All fees involved with medical examinations and/or tests required in this Section shall be the responsibility of the applicant.

 

g)         Licensees shall comply with all applicable federal regulations governing boxing.

 

h)         Proof of good moral character.  The applicant shall notify the Division of any criminal convictions other than minor traffic violations.  The Division may consider any criminal convictions or discipline in another jurisdiction in which the applicant is licensed when determining if the applicant is qualified for licensure.

 

i)          When the accuracy or sufficiency of any submitted documentation of stated experience is questioned by the Division or the Board because of lack of information, discrepancies or conflicts in information given or a need for clarification, the applicant seeking licensure may be requested to:

 

1)         Provide the necessary information; and/or

 

2)         Appear for an interview before the Board to clarify information or clear up any discrepancies or conflicts in information.

 

j)          The application for licensure as a referee, judge or timekeeper shall be completed on forms provided by the Division and shall include, but not be limited to:

 

1)         A copy of current government issued photo identification (e.g., driver's license, passport);

 

2)         A passport size photo;

 

3)         The required fee set forth in Section 1370.30;

 

4)         An eye examination by an optometrist or physician licensed to practice medicine in all its branches who specializes in ophthalmology, dated no more than 6 months prior to the date of application, reflecting that the applicant has corrected or uncorrected visual acuity of at least 20/40 in both eyes; and

 

5)         Documented experience in boxing as a referee, judge or timekeeper, as appropriate, which shall include but not be limited to:

 

A)        3 of the last 4 years in amateur or professional boxing or a minimum of 300 bouts;

 

B)        experience in amateur or professional, local or national tournaments or contests; or

 

C)        proof of active licensure in another jurisdiction.

 

k)         The Division may also require the applicant to submit to a minimum of one on-site evaluation of his or her working as a judge, referee or timekeeper during an actual bout to complete an applicant’s portfolio of eligibility for licensure.

 

l)          In addition to the other requirements of this Section, applicants for licensure as a referee shall provide proof of a complete physical examination by a physician, dated no more than 6 months prior to the date of application, to determine whether the applicant is in good physical condition and has the speed and reflexes necessary for the protection of both fighters.

 

Section 1370.460  Application for License as a Full-contact Martial Arts Contestant

 

a)         The Division may deny an application for licensure if the applicant fails to meet the qualifications specified in this Section, fails to pass a required examination, or otherwise fails to complete training to the satisfaction of the Division.

 

b)         No contestant shall participate in a contest without being licensed.

 

c)         Contestants shall be separately licensed for either boxing or full-contact martial arts.

 

d)         An applicant for a license shall complete an application provided by the Division, which shall include the fee set forth in Section 1370.30.

 

e)         An applicant must be at least 18 years of age.

 

f)         An applicant must show proof of state residency.

 

g)         Disclose in writing, on a form provided by the Division, a complete medical history, including any prior or existing medical conditions.

 

h)         All costs involved with medical examinations and/or tests required in this Section shall be the responsibility of the applicant.

 

i)          Proof of good moral character.  The applicant shall notify the Division of any criminal convictions other than minor traffic violations.  The Division may consider any criminal convictions or discipline in another jurisdiction in which the applicant is licensed when determining if the applicant is qualified for licensure.

 

j)          When the accuracy or sufficiency of any submitted documentation of stated experience is questioned by the Division or the Board because of lack of information, discrepancies or conflicts in information given or a need for clarification, the applicant seeking licensure may be requested to:

 

1)         Provide the necessary information; and/or

 

2)         Appear for an interview before the Board to clarify information or clear up any discrepancies or conflicts in information.

 

k)         Applicants for licensure as a contestant shall be completed on forms provided by the Division and shall include, without limitation:

 

1)         A copy of current government issued photo identification (e.g., driver's license, passport);

 

2)         Proof of age (e.g., driver's license or copy of birth certificate);

 

3)         Social Security Number or tax identification number, as appropriate;

 

4)         Documentation of one year of mixed martial arts experience as a contestant, including the total number of bouts and a breakdown of wins and losses.  The applicant shall have a minimum of 5 bouts or demonstrate exceptional fighting ability, as shown by the applicant's competition and training history, in combat sports, wrestling, grappling or martial arts, as determined by the Division;

 

5)         A passport size photo; and

 

6)         The required fee set forth in Section 1370.30.

 

l)          All contestants must submit proof of a complete physical examination by a physician.  All physical exams and laboratory results submitted shall be dated no more than 6 months prior to the date of application.  The examining physician shall conduct examinations and tests necessary to attest to the fitness of the applicant to engage in contests.  Physical examinations of female contestants shall also include a pelvic, abdominal and breast exam.

 

m)        Each applicant shall provide medical test results to the Division dated no more than 6 months prior to the date of application, which shall include but not be limited to:

 

1)         Complete physical examination;

 

2)         Any results of an MRI report and cerebral magnetic resonance angiography dated within the last 5 years;

 

3)         A blood test that verifies the applicant is HIV negative (quantitative RNA);

 

4)         A blood test that verifies the applicant is Hepatitis B (HBsAg) negative;

 

5)         A blood test that verifies the applicant is Hepatitis C (HCVAb) negative;

 

6)         An eye examination by an optometrist or a physician licensed to practice medicine in all its branches who specializes in ophthalmology with results of dilated eye exam; and

 

7)          Any other test the Division or event physician may require.

 

n)         A contestant over age 35 who has not competed in a contest within the last 36 months, or as otherwise determined by the Division, may be required to appear before the Board to determine his or her fitness to participate in a contest.

 

o)         The Division may deny a contestant a license if the contestant's license to participate or compete as a contestant has been denied, refused or disciplined for a medical condition by another state, tribal athletic commission, territory, federal agency or county. 

 

p)         If an applicant for licensure has suffered a serious head injury, including but not limited to a cerebral hemorrhage, the applicant must have his or her application for licensure or renewal reviewed by the Division before a license is issued or renewed. 

 

q)         The Division will not issue or renew a license to an applicant who is found to be blind in one eye or whose vision in one eye is so poor that a physician recommends that the license not be granted or renewed.  This subsection is effective regardless of the acuity of vision the applicant may have in the other eye.

 

Section 1370.470  Application for License as a Full-contact Martial Arts Timekeeper, Referee or Judge

 

a)         The Division may deny an application for licensure if the applicant fails to meet the qualifications specified in this Section, fails to pass a required examination, or fails to otherwise complete training to the satisfaction of the Division.

 

b)         All timekeepers, referees or judges shall be licensed.

 

c)         Timekeepers, referees and judges shall be separately licensed for either boxing or full-contact martial arts.

 

d)         An applicant for a license shall complete an application provided by the Division.

 

e)         An applicant must be at least 18 years of age.

 

f)         All fees involved with medical examinations and/or tests required in this Section shall be the responsibility of the applicant.

 

g)         Proof of good moral character.  The applicant shall notify the Division of any criminal convictions other than minor traffic violations.  The Division may consider any criminal convictions or discipline in another jurisdiction in which the applicant is licensed when determining if the applicant is qualified for licensure.

 

h)         When the accuracy or sufficiency of any submitted documentation of stated experience is questioned by the Division or the Board because of lack of information, discrepancies or conflicts in information given or a need for clarification, the applicant seeking licensure may be requested to:

 

1)         Provide the necessary information; and/or

 

2)         Appear for an interview before the Division to clarify information or clear up any discrepancies or conflicts in information.

 

i)          The application for licensure as a referee, judge or timekeeper shall be completed on forms provided by the Division and shall include, without limitation:

 

1)         A copy of current government issued photo identification (e.g., driver's license, passport);

 

2)         An eye examination by an optometrist or physician licensed to practice medicine in all its branches who specializes in ophthalmology, dated no more than 6 months prior to the date of application reflecting that the applicant has corrected or uncorrected visual acuity of at least 20/40 in both eyes;

 

3)         A passport size photo;

 

4)         The required fee set forth in Section 1370.30; and

 

5)         Documented experience in martial arts or full-contact martial arts, which shall include, without limitation:

 

A)        3 of the last 4 years in amateur or professional martial arts or full-contact martial arts contests or a minimum of 100 bouts;

 

B)        exceptional ability as a referee, judge or timekeeper, as determined by the Division based on the applicant's experience; or

 

C)        proof of active licensure in another jurisdiction.

 

j)          The Division may also require the applicant to submit to a minimum of one in-person evaluation of his or her working as a judge, referee or timekeeper during an actual bout to complete an applicant's portfolio of eligibility for licensure. 

 

k)         In addition to the other requirements of this Section, applicants for licensure as a referee shall provide proof of a complete physical examination by a physician, dated no more than 6 months prior to the date of application, to determine whether the applicant is in good physical condition and has the speed and reflexes necessary for the protection of both fighters.

SUBPART D: PROFESSIONAL BOXING

 

Section 1370.500  Classes and Weights of Contestants – Boxing

 

a)         Contestants shall be classified under the following classifications:

 

1)	Light Flyweight	not over 108 pounds
2)	Flyweight	over 108 to 112 pounds
3)	Bantamweight	over 112 to 118 pounds
4)	Super Bantamweight	over 118 to 122 pounds
5)	Featherweight	over 122 to 126 pounds
6)	Super Featherweight	over 126 to 130 pounds
7)	Lightweight	over 130 to 135 pounds
8)	Super Lightweight	over 135 to 140 pounds
9)	Welterweight	over 140 to 147 pounds
10)	Super Welterweight	over 147 to 154 pounds
11)	Middleweight	over 154 to 160 pounds
12)	Super Middleweight	over 160 to 168 pounds
13)	Light Heavyweight	over 168 to 175 pounds
14)	Cruiserweight	over 175 to 200 pounds
15)	Heavyweight	over 200 pounds

b)         Any contestant's change in weight class must be approved by the Division.

 

c)         Contestants shall only fight contestants in their own weight class unless permission is granted by the Division. 

 

Section 1370.510  Attire and Equipment for Contestants – Boxing

 

a)         Attire and Equipment for Contestants

All contestants shall comply with the following:

 

1)         Contestants shall wear athletic shorts that do not extend below the knee, as specified in the bout agreement.

 

2)         Each contestant shall have available for the contest 2 uniforms of contrasting colors, consisting of a body shirt, athletic jersey and shorts.  No leotard or other such costume is permitted.

 

3)         Shirts or gis shall not be worn by a contestant during a bout.

 

4)         Knee pads, elbow pads, chest protectors (for male contestants), and shin guards shall not be allowed.

 

5)         Shoes shall be of soft material and not fitted with spikes, cleats, hard soles or hard heels.

 

6)         All contestants shall wear an individually fitted mouthpiece, which shall be subject to examination and approval by the Division.

 

A)        All contestants shall have available 2 mouthpieces; and

 

B)        A round will not begin until both contestants have their respective mouthpieces in place.

 

7)         Male contestants shall wear a foul-proof groin protector.

 

8)         Female contestants:

 

A)        shall wear a breast protector during the contest with both contestants wearing the same type.  The breast protector shall be subject to examination and approval by the Division; and

 

B)        may wear a pelvic protector at the option of the contestant.

 

9)         A contestant shall be prohibited from wearing any attire or equipment that contains any metal substance.

 

10)         All equipment and attire are subject to approval by the Division.  An inspector or other Division official may direct a contestant to change any attire or equipment that he or she determines gives unfair advantage or is a threat to the health, safety or welfare of the other contestant or the public.

 

b)         Bandages/Handwraps

In all weight classes, seconds must adhere to the following for wrapping hands:

 

1)         Hand bandages shall be restricted to 15 yards of soft gauze bandage not more than 2 inches in width, held in place by not more than 6 feet of surgeon's tape, ½ inch in width, for each hand.  Any deviation must have the approval of the Division official.

 

2)         Bandages shall be evenly distributed across the hand.

 

3)         The binding of surgeon's tape must not be applied within ½ inch of the knuckles of the contestant's hand.

 

4)         Bandages and tape shall be placed on the contestant's hand in the dressing room prior to the bout in the presence of the inspector.  The opposing contestant for a title may also witness the bandaging of the opponent's hands.  This privilege may be waived.

 

5)         The Division official shall approve all bandages and taping prior to gloves being placed on any contestant and after gloves are removed.  Under no circumstances are gloves to be placed on the hands of a contestant before approval by the inspector.

 

c)         Gloves

 

1)         Contestants competing against each other in the same bout shall wear gloves that are of the same weight.

 

2)         The brand of glove used in a contest must be approved by the Division prior to the contest.  Gloves shall be whole, clean and in good condition.  Broken gloves are prohibited during any bout or contest.

 

3)         Gloves that are padded in the palm or fingertip area are prohibited.

 

4)         All gloves shall be inspected and approved by the inspector prior to each bout.  The inspector or a designee of the Division may inspect gloves at any time.

 

5)         All gloves shall be furnished by the promoter.  Webbed gloves with attached thumbs must be worn and must be approved by the Division or its designee.  For all title bouts, gloves shall be new.  Promoters must have extra sets of gloves in each size used during the contest to be used in case gloves are broken or in any way damaged during the course of a bout.  Promoters are prohibited from furnishing gloves provided by a contestant.

 

A)        Gloves shall be appropriate in weight for the contestants and shall be no less than 8 ounces and no more than 12 ounces in weight.

 

B)        Male boxing contestants who are over 147 pounds shall wear gloves that are, at minimum, 10 ounces in weight.

 

C)        Male boxing contestants who are 147 pounds and under shall wear gloves that are, at minimum, 8 ounces in weight.

 

D)        Female contestants shall wear gloves that weigh at least 10 ounces.

 

Section 1370.520  Structure of the Ring for Contests

 

a)         Size of the Ring

 

1)         The ring shall be square shaped.

 

2)         The ring for a contest shall be no less than 16 x 16 feet and no larger than 24 x 24 feet within the ropes.  The ring floor shall be constructed of at least a 1 inch base of wood-based board padded with at least a 1 inch layer of foam rubber or foam rubber equivalents.  There must be a top covering of canvas, duck or similar material tightly stretched and attached to the ring platform.

 

3)         The ring shall have 4 posts not less than 3 inches in diameter that extend from the floor of the ring to a height of no less than 48 inches and no more than 58 inches.  The posts shall be securely anchored and adequately padded.

 

b)         The ring shall have, at minimum, 4 ropes of cotton, hemp, nylon or comparable material, each not less than one inch in diameter.  The ropes shall be padded with a soft material.

 

c)         The floor of the ring shall not be more than 4 feet above the floor on which it is standing, and shall be supplied with steps for the entry and departure of contestants and officials.

 

d)         The platform of the ring must extend beyond the ropes for a distance of at least 2 feet.

 

e)         The ring shall be kept clear of obstructions.

 

Section 1370.530  Intentional and Accidental Fouls and Injuries

 

a)         Fouls

 

1)         If one of the contestants falls to the ring floor, or otherwise indicates an unwillingness to continue because of a claim of a low-blow foul, and the referee does not agree, the contest may be terminated, and the referee may award the contest to the opponent.

 

2)         In the case of a referee determined accidental foul, the referee shall determine whether the contestant who has been fouled can continue.  If the contestant's chances have not been seriously jeopardized as a result of the foul, the referee may order the bout continued after an interval of not more than 5 minutes rest.

 

3)         The following actions in a boxing bout or contest shall be considered fouls:

 

A)        Hitting below the belt;

 

B)        Hitting an opponent who is down;

 

C)        Holding an opponent with one hand while hitting with the other;

 

D)        Holding or clinching after the referee orders the contestants to break or hitting on the break;

 

E)        Wrestling or kicking;

 

F)         Butting with the head or shoulder;

 

G)        Hitting with open gloves, hitting with the butt of the hand, wrist or elbow, and all back hand blows;

 

H)        Roughing on the ropes;

 

I)         Hitting in the back or kidney area;

 

J)         Hitting on the back of the head or neck;

 

K)        Jabbing the opponent's eyes with the thumb of the glove;

 

L)        Hitting after the bell has sounded ending a round; and

 

M)       Conduct that in the opinion of the referee is unsportsmanlike.

 

b)         Injuries

 

1)         The referee, at his or her discretion, may request that the physician examine a contestant during the bout.  Should the examination occur during the course of a round, the clock shall be stopped until the examination is completed.  The physician may recommend that the referee stop the bout, in which case the referee shall render the appropriate decision.

 

2)         In the event of serious cuts or injuries, the referee shall summon the physician who shall advise whether the bout should be stopped.

 

3)         A referee shall consider the decision of the physician.

 

4)         The referee shall be authorized to determine if injuries were produced by a foul, and if the foul was intentional or accidental.

 

c)         Injuries Sustained as a Result of Fouls

 

1)         Intentional Fouls

 

A)        If an intentional foul causes an injury, and the injury is severe enough to terminate the bout immediately, the contestant causing the injury shall lose by disqualification.

 

B)        If an intentional foul causes an injury and the bout is allowed to continue, the referee will notify the Division representative and may deduct points from the contestant who caused the foul.  Point deductions for intentional fouls will be mandatory.

 

C)        If an intentional foul causes an injury and the injury results in the bout being stopped in a later round, the injured contestant will win by technical decision if he or she is ahead on the score cards, or the bout will result in a technical draw if the injured boxing contestant is behind or even on the score cards.

 

D)        If a contestant injures himself or herself while attempting to intentionally foul his or her opponent, the referee will not take any action in his or her favor, and this injury will be the same as one produced by a fair blow.

 

E)        If the referee believes that a contestant has conducted himself or herself in an unsportsmanlike manner, the referee may stop the bout and disqualify the contestant.

 

2)         Accidental Fouls

 

A)        If an accidental foul causes an injury severe enough for the referee to stop the bout immediately, the bout will result in a no decision if stopped before 4 completed rounds.  Four rounds are complete when the bell rings signifying the end of the fourth round.

 

B)        After four rounds have occurred, if an accidental foul causes an injury severe enough for the referee to stop the bout immediately, the bout will result in a technical decision, awarded to the contestant who is ahead on the score cards at the time the bout is stopped.

 

C)        Partial or incomplete rounds will be scored.  If no action has occurred, the round should be scored as an even round.  This is at the discretion of the judges.

 

3)         A contestant who is hit with an accidental low blow must continue after a reasonable amount of time, but no more than 5 minutes, or he or she will lose the fight.

 

d)         Loss of mouthpiece.  When a mouthpiece is knocked out of a contestant's mouth, the referee may call time when he or she deems that there is a lull in action (not in the heat of battle).  The referee may have the second replace the mouthpiece.  The referee may call a time out based on loss of a mouthpiece one time per contestant during the bout without points being deducted from the contestant whose mouthpiece came out, at the discretion of the referee

 

Section 1370.540  Rounds

 

a)         Non-Title Bouts.  Each non-title bout shall be no fewer than 4 rounds and no more than 12 rounds of 3 minutes duration, with a one minute rest period between rounds.

 

b)         Title Bouts.  Each title bout shall be no fewer than 8 rounds and no more than 12 rounds of 3 minutes duration, with a one minute rest period between rounds.

 

c)         Women's boxing bouts shall have 2 minute rounds, with a one minute rest period between rounds.

 

Section 1370.550  Types of Bout Results

 

a)         A contestant shall be considered by the referee to be knocked down when any part of his or her body other than the feet is on the fighting area floor, or if the contestant is hanging over the ropes and unable to defend himself or herself.

 

b)         A contestant hanging over the ropes is not officially "down" until so pronounced by the referee.

 

c)         When a contestant is knocked down, the referee shall order the opponent to retire to the farther neutral corner of the ring, pointing to the corner, and immediately pick up the count from the timekeeper and continue counting over the contestant who is down.

 

d)         The referee shall announce the passing of the seconds, audibly, accompanying the count with motions of his or her arm, the downward motion indicating the end of each second.

 

e)         There shall be a mandatory 8-count.  Any contestant who is knocked down shall not be allowed to resume boxing until after the referee has finished counting 8.  The contestant may take this count either on the floor or standing.

 

f)         Three knockdowns in one round shall be regarded as justifiable reason for the referee to halt a contest.  The referee may allow a fight to continue after a contestant has been knocked down 3 times if, in his or her judgment, the contestant is able to continue.

 

g)         If the contestant taking the count is still down when the referee calls the count of 10, the referee shall wave both arms to indicate that the contestant has been knocked out and has lost the bout.

 

h)         Should the opponent fail to stay in the neutral corner, the referee shall cease counting until  the opponent has returned to it;  the referee will then go on with the count from the point at which it was interrupted.

 

i)          Contestants who have been knocked out shall be kept lying down until they have recovered.  When a contestant is knocked out, no one shall touch him or her, except that the referee shall remove the contestant's mouthpiece, until the ringside physician enters the ring and personally attends to the contestant and issues necessary instructions to the contestant's seconds.

 

j)          The bell does not save the contestant in any round.

 

k)         If any contestant fails or refuses to resume fighting when the bell sounds starting the next round, the referee may award a technical knockout to the opponent as of the last completed round plus one second of the current round.

 

l)          Cessation of contest because of unexpected reasons.  Should unexpected or accidental reasons determine the cessation of a contest before completion of the scheduled rounds, a technical decision shall be awarded to the contestant who is ahead in points on the scorecard of judges and the determination of the referee, provided that at least 4 rounds have been completed when the cessation occurs.  If the cessation occurs before 4 rounds have been completed, the decision will be a technical draw.

 

m)        No manager or second shall bring about the termination of a contest by tossing in a towel.  The manager or second shall notify the physician or referee that the bout needs to be stopped.  Seconds cannot walk into the ring.  The chief second may mount the apron of the fighting area and attract the referee's attention, indicating the retirement of the contestant.

 

Section 1370.560  State of Illinois Boxing Championships

 

a)         All title bouts will be 8, 10 or 12 rounds, each of which is 2 or 3 minutes, with one minute of rest between rounds.

 

b)         Scoring will be the 10-point must system as described in Section 1370.570.  The scoring will be done by 3 judges.  The referee will be a non-scoring official.

 

c)         In the event a contestant is knocked down, there will be a mandatory 8-count.  There is no standing 8-count.

 

d)         The bout will be stopped any time the referee or physician considers it necessary for the safety of either contestant.

 

e)         The weigh-in will be set by the Division.  The champion and challenger will have 2 hours after the initial weigh-in to make weight; if either fails to make weight, no title will be at stake.

 

f)         A champion must keep his or her contestant license up to date.  He or she will have 30 days after the expiration date, as set forth in Section 1370.210, to renew his or her license.  If the license is not renewed, the contestant's title will be vacated.

 

g)         A champion must defend or have a contract to defend his or her title every 6 months or his or her title will be vacated.

 

h)         If a champion is convicted of any felony, his or her title will be declared vacant.

 

i)          If a champion wins a major title, such as International Boxing Federation (IBF), World Boxing Organization (WBO), World Boxing Council (WBC), World Boxing Association (WBA), North American Boxing Federation (NABF), North American Boxing Organization (NABO), or United States Boxing Association (USBA), he or she must relinquish his or her State title.

 

j)          All championship bouts must be approved by the Division.

 

k)         A 10% fee above the normal scale will be paid to the officials who work the championship bout.

 

l)          The championship belt must be provided by the promoter for a new champion.

 

m)        It is the responsibility of the champion's manager to contact a promoter for the defense of the champion's title.

 

n)         There will be no permit fee for the championship bout.

 

o)         Gloves

 

1)         Male contestants who are over 147 pounds shall wear thumb web gloves that are, at minimum, 10 ounces in weight.

 

2)         Male contestants who are 147 pounds and under shall wear thumb web gloves that are, at minimum, 8 ounces in weight.

 

3)         Female contestants shall wear gloves that weigh at least 10 ounces.

 

p)         A contestant must be licensed in Illinois and residing in Illinois or an adjacent state, as demonstrated by providing a driver's license, a utility bill or a lease in the contestant's name, or similar documentation, before he or she is eligible to be rated.  He or she must also have at least one fight every 6 months.

 

Section 1370.570  Scoring – Boxing

 

a)         Scoring shall be by 3 licensed judges in attendance to score each bout, stationed on different sides of the ring, and the referee.  The judges shall watch every phase of the bout and make a decision if the contest lasts the full number of rounds scheduled.  They shall be ready at all times, if requested by the referee, to assist in deciding whether fouls have been committed.

 

b)         The following shall be considered by judges while scoring:

 

1)         Clean blows, not otherwise prohibited by this Part, in proportion to their damaging effects.

 

2)         Aggressiveness.

 

3)         Defensive maneuvers for avoiding or blocking a blow.

 

4)         Conspicuous command of the fighting area, which includes such factors as the ability to take advantage of an opportunity; to cope with, foresee and neutralize an opponent's attack; or to force an opponent to adopt a style of fighting at which he or she is not skillful.

 

c)         System for Scoring a Contest

 

1)         The scoring of the contest by the judges will be by the 10-point must system.

 

2)         Under the 10-point must system, the winner of each round receives 10 points and the loser a proportionately lower number.

 

3)         If the round is even, each contestant receives the full number of points.  No fractions of points are to be used.

 

4)         If a round is stopped by a referee due to an accidental foul, the round shall be scored.

 

5)         The winner of the round shall be awarded 10 points and the loser of the round shall be awarded 9 or fewer points, except for rare instances of an even round for which each contestant shall be awarded 10 points.

SUBPART E: PROFESSIONAL MIXED MARTIAL ARTS

 

Section 1370.600  Classes and Weights of Contestants

 

a)         In full-contact martial arts contests, contestants shall be classified under the following classifications:

 

Weight Class		Weights	Allowances
1)	Straw Weight	up to 115 pounds	3 pounds
2)	Flyweight	over 115 to 125 pounds	3 pounds
3)	Bantamweight	over 125 to 135 pounds	3 pounds
4)	Featherweight	over 135 to 145 pounds	5 pounds
5)	Lightweight	over 145 to 155 pounds	5 pounds
6)	Welterweight	over 155 to 170 pounds	5 pounds
7)	Middleweight	over 170 to 185 pounds	7 pounds
8)	Light Heavyweight	over 185 to 205 pounds	7 pounds
9)	Heavyweight	over 205 to 265 pounds	7 pounds
10)	Super Heavyweight	over 265 pounds

b)         Any contestant's change in weight class must be approved by the Division.

 

c)         Contestants shall only fight contestants in their own weight class unless permission is granted by the Division. With permission of the Division, a contestant can compete against a competitor in his or her own weight class or in one of the 2 higher or 2 lower weight classes.

 

Section 1370.610  Attire and Equipment

 

a)         Attire and Equipment for Contestants

All contestants shall comply with the following:

 

1)         Contestants shall wear athletic shorts that do not extend below the knee, such as mixed martial arts shorts, grappling or fighting shorts, boxing shorts or kickboxing shorts, or as specified in the bout agreement.

 

2)         Each contestant shall have available for the contest 2 uniforms of contrasting colors, consisting of athletic shorts as described in this subsection.  No leotard or other such costume is permitted.

 

3)         Shirts or gis shall not be worn by a contestant during a bout, unless approved by the Division.

 

4)         Knee pads, elbow pads, chest protectors (for male contestants), shin guards, headgear, or closed toe shoes shall not be allowed.

 

5)         All contestants shall wear an individually fitted mouthpiece, which shall be subject to examination and approval by the Division.

 

A)        All contestants shall have available 2 mouthpieces; and

 

B)        A round will not begin until both contestants have their respective mouthpieces in place.

 

6)         Male contestants shall wear a foul-proof groin protector.

 

7)         Female contestants:

 

A)        shall wear a breast protector during the contest with both contestants wearing the same type.  The breast protector shall be subject to examination and approval by the Division; and

 

B)        may wear a pelvic protector at the option of the contestant.

 

8)         Taping of hands, wrists and ankles is subject to approval by the Division.

 

9)         A contestant shall be prohibited from wearing any attire or equipment that contains any abrasive material, metal substance, or other hard material such as plastic or buckles.

 

10)         All equipment and attire, such as neoprene ankle or knee sleeves, or other emerging market materials that comprise equipment and attire, are subject to approval by the Division.  An inspector or other Division representative may direct a contestant to change any attire or equipment that he or she determines gives unfair advantage or is a threat to the health, safety or welfare of the other contestant or the public or could be deemed a detriment to the sport.

 

b)         Bandages/Handwraps

In all weight classes, seconds must adhere to the following for wrapping hands:

 

1)         The bandages/handwraps shall consist of soft gauze type cloth that is no more than 15 yards in length and not more than 2 inches in width and held in place by no more than 10 feet or one winding of surgeon's tape not over 2 inches wide.  Up to one 20 yard roll of bandage may be used to complete the wrappings for each hand;

 

2)         The surgeon's tape shall be placed directly on each hand for protection near the wrist.  The tape may cross the back of the hand twice but may not extend within three-fourths of an inch of the knuckles when the hand is clenched to make a fist;

 

3)         Bandages shall be evenly distributed across the hand;

 

4)         Bandages and tape shall be placed on the contestant's hand in the dressing room prior to the bout in the presence of the inspector.  The opposing contestant for a title may also witness the bandaging of the opponent's hands.  This privilege may be waived; and

 

5)         The Division official shall approve all bandages and taping prior to gloves being placed on any contestant and after gloves are removed.  Under no circumstances are gloves to be placed on the hands of a contestant before approval by the inspector.

 

c)         Gloves for Contestants

 

1)         Contestants competing against each other in the same bout shall wear the same weighted gloves.  Gloves shall be clearly marked or have sewn into the lining a tag with the official weights by the manufacturer.  When gloves are manufactured with a size mark or tag (e.g., Small, Medium, Large or Extra Large) rather than the official weight of the glove, the promoter must provide the glove manufacturer's documentation reflecting the size to weight ratio of the gloves. 

 

2)         Gloves shall be whole, clean and in good condition.  Broken gloves are prohibited during any bout or contest.

 

3)         Gloves that are padded in the palm or fingertip area are prohibited.

 

4)         All gloves shall be inspected and approved by the inspector prior to each bout.  The inspector or a designee of the Division may inspect gloves at any time.

 

5)         All gloves shall be furnished by the promoter.  For all title bouts gloves shall be new.  Promoters must have extra sets of gloves in each size used during the contest to be used in case gloves are broken or in any way damaged during the course of a bout.  Promoters are prohibited from furnishing gloves to the Division that were provided by a contestant.

 

6)         Gloves shall be appropriate in size for the contestant and shall be no less than 4 ounces and no more than 8 ounces in weight.

 

Section 1370.620  Structure of the Fighting Area for Contests

 

a)         Contests shall be held in a ring, cage or a fenced area.

 

b)         The fighting area shall be approved by the Division, including all padding or enclosures.  Fighting areas that are not approved by the Division shall not be used.  The fighting area shall meet the following requirements:

 

1)         The fighting area:

 

A)        shall be constructed in a manner that does not pose a substantial risk to the safety or health of any person.  The fighting area must be circular or have as many as 8 equal sides for a contest.  The fighting area shall be no smaller than 16 feet wide and no larger than 32 feet wide within the ropes, cage or fenced area;

 

B)        shall have a corner with a blue designation and the corner directly across shall have a red designation;

 

C)        floor shall extend at least 24 inches beyond the ropes or other barrier.  The floor must be of a canvas, duck or similar material that shall be padded with at least a one inch layer of foam padding that shall extend over the edge of the platform of the fighting area.  Vinyl or other plastic rubberized covering is prohibited.  Materials that may gather in lumps or ridges during the bout or contest are prohibited;

 

D)        platform shall be  a minimum of one foot and no more than 4 feet above the floor on which it is standing and must have suitable steps or ramps for use by officials and the contestants;

 

E)        shall have 5 fighting area ropes, when fighting area ropes are used, not less than one inch in diameter and wrapped in soft material.  The lowest rope must be no higher than 12 inches from the fighting area floor; and

 

F)         must not be obstructed by any object, including, without limitation, a triangular border, on any part of the fighting area floor.

 

2)         When fighting area ropes are used, the post:

 

A)        must be made of metal no less 3 inches and not more than 6 inches in diameter, and must be properly padded in a manner approved by the Division; and

 

B)        must be 18 inches away from the fighting area ropes.

 

3)         The fence or cage specifications for martial arts and mixed martial arts are:

 

A)        the fence or cage shall be made of material that will prevent a contestant from falling out or breaking through the fighting area onto the floor beneath the fighting area or onto spectators.  The enclosure may be composed of vinyl-coated chain link fencing or other similar material;

 

B)        any exposed metal on the interior of the fenced or caged area must be covered and padded in a manner approved by the inspector or Division representative.  The covering shall not be abrasive to the contestants;

 

C)        any metal parts used to reinforce the fenced or caged area enclosure shall not interfere with the safety of the contestants;

 

D)        unless otherwise approved by the Division, the enclosure shall provide 2 separate entries onto the fighting area canvas that are sufficient to allow easy access to the fighting area by officials and emergency personnel.  The entrances must be padded or covered so that there is no exposed metal on the interior of the fence or caged area;

 

E)        The enclosure shall not obstruct or limit the supervision and regulation of the bout by officials or Division representatives; and

 

F)         The enclosure shall not inhibit the judging of the bout in any manner.

 

Section 1370.630  Intentional and Accidental Fouls and Injuries

 

a)         The following actions in a bout or contest shall be considered fouls:

 

1)         Butting with the head;

 

2)         Eye gouging of any kind;

 

3)         Biting;

 

4)         Hair pulling;

 

5)         Fishhooking;

 

6)         Groin attacks of any kind;

 

7)         Putting a finger into any orifice or into any cut or laceration of an opponent;

 

8)         Small joint manipulation;

 

9)         Striking to the spine or the back of the head;

 

10)         Striking downward, "sky to earth", using the point of the elbow;

 

11)         Throat strikes of any kind, including, without limitation, grabbing the trachea;

 

12)         Clawing, pinching or twisting the flesh;

 

13)         Grabbing the clavicle;

 

14)         Kicking the head of a grounded opponent;

 

15)         Kneeing the head of a grounded opponent;

 

16)         Stomping a grounded opponent;

 

17)         Kicking to the kidney with the heel;

 

18)         Spiking an opponent to the canvas on his head or neck;

 

19)         Throwing an opponent out of the ring or fenced area;

 

20)         Holding the shorts or gloves of an opponent;

 

21)         Spitting at an opponent;

 

22)         Engaging in any unsportsmanlike conduct that causes injury to an opponent;

 

23)         Holding the ropes or the fence;

 

24)         Using abusive language in the ring or fenced area;

 

25)         Attacking an opponent during the break;

 

26)         Attacking an opponent who is under the care of the referee;

 

27)         Attacking an opponent after the bell has sounded the end of the period of unarmed combat;

 

28)         Flagrantly disregarding the instructions of the referee;

 

29)         Timidity, including, without limitation, avoiding contact with an opponent, intentionally or consistently dropping the mouthpiece or faking an injury;

 

30)         Interference by the corner from anyone working a contestant's corner, including leaving the corner's designated area;

 

31)         Any act that, in the judgment of the referee, is detrimental and places an opponent at a disadvantage or risk, such as applying a foreign substance to one's hair, body, clothing or gloves prior to or during a contest; and

 

32)         Throwing in the towel during competition.

 

b)         Injuries

 

1)         The referee, at his or her discretion, may request that the physician examine a contestant during the bout.  Should the examination occur during the course of a round, the clock shall be stopped until the examination is completed.  The physician may recommend that the referee stop the bout, in which case the referee shall render the appropriate decision.

 

2)         In the event of serious cuts or injuries, the referee shall summon the physician who shall advise whether the bout should be stopped.

 

3)         A referee may consider the decision of the physician.

 

4)         The referee shall be authorized to determine if injuries were produced by a foul, and if the foul was intentional or accidental.

 

c)         Injuries Sustained by Fair Blows and Fouls

 

1)         Fair Blows

If an injury is severe enough to terminate a contest, the injured contestant loses by technical knockout (TKO).

 

2)         Fouls

 

A)        Intentional

 

i)          If an intentional foul causes an injury, and the injury is severe enough to terminate a bout immediately, the contestant causing the injury shall lose by disqualification.

 

ii)         If an intentional foul causes an injury and the bout is allowed to continue, the referee may notify the Division representative and may deduct points from the contestant who caused the foul.

 

iii)        If an intentional foul causes an injury and the injury results in the bout being stopped in a later round, the injured contestant shall win by technical decision if he or she is ahead on the scorecards, or the bout shall result in a technical draw if the injured contestant is behind or even on the scorecards.

 

iv)        If a contestant injures himself or herself while attempting to intentionally foul his or her opponent, the referee shall not take any action in his or her favor, and this injury shall be the same as one produced by a fair blow.

 

v)         If the referee believes that a contestant has conducted himself or herself in an unsportsmanlike manner, the referee may stop the bout and disqualify the contestant.

 

B)        Accidental

 

i)          If the referee determines, either from his or her own observation or on the advise of the physician, that the bout should not continue because of the injury from the accidental foul, the bout will be declared a no contest if the foul occurred:

 

·           during the first 2 rounds of a non-championship bout; or

 

·           during the first 3 rounds of a championship bout.

 

ii)         If the referee determines, either from his or her own observation or on the advise of the physician, that the bout should not continue because of the injury from the accidental foul, the bout will be determined by scoring the completed rounds and the round in which the referee stops the bout if the foul occurred:

 

·           after the completion of the second round in a non-championship bout; or

 

·           after the completion of the third round in a championship bout.

 

iii)        A contestant who is hit with an accidental low-blow must continue after a reasonable amount of time, but no more than 5 minutes, or he or she may lose the bout by technical knockout.

 

iv)        If an injury from an accidental foul later becomes aggravated by fair blows and the referee orders the bout stopped because of the injury, the outcome must be determined by scoring the completed rounds and the round in which the referee stops the contest.

 

3)         In assessing fouls, the referee shall weigh the cause, as well as the effect.  If the referee has seen an unauthorized blow, strike or attack delivered that has a damaging effect, the referee may permit a rest period to the victim not to exceed 5 minutes.  During the rest period, seconds may not assist or coach the injured contestant.  The offending contestant shall go to a neutral corner and shall not be coached during the period.

 

4)         At the discretion of the referee, the referee may give an official warning or penalty to the offending contestant for the unauthorized blow, strike or attack, and then may give the command to continue after the end of the rest period if the contestant who received the unauthorized blow, strike or attack indicates ability to continue the bout.  If the injured contestant refuses to continue after a 5 minute rest period, the opponent shall be named the winner.

 

5)         Repeated unauthorized blows, strikes or attacks shall be penalized with deduction of points from the offending contestant or disqualification of the offending contestant.

 

6)         A contestant cannot be named the winner of a bout as the result of receiving an unauthorized blow, strike or attack, or low blow unless, in the opinion of the referee, the unauthorized blow, strike or attack was delivered deliberately and with enough force to seriously incapacitate the injured contestant so that he or she could not continue the bout.  Under this condition, the offender shall be dis­qualified immediately.

 

7)         A fouled contestant has up to 5 minutes to recuperate.

 

8)         Only the referee can assess a foul and any point deductions.  If the referee does not call the foul, judges shall not make that assessment on their own.

 

9)         If a foul is committed:

 

A)        The referee shall call time.

 

B)        The referee shall check the fouled contestant's condition and safety.

 

C)        The referee shall then assess the foul to the offending contestant, deduct points and notify the seconds, judges and official scorekeeper.

 

10)         If a bottom contestant commits a foul, unless the top contestant is injured, the contest will continue.

 

A)        The referee will verbally notify the bottom contestant of the foul.

 

B)        When the round is over, the referee will assess the foul and notify both corners, the judges and the official scorekeeper.

 

C)        The referee may terminate a bout based on the severity of a foul.  If the referee terminates a bout under such circumstances, the contestant committing the foul shall lose by disqualification.

 

11)        When any injury is severe enough for the referee to stop the contest immediately after 2 rounds of a 3 round contest, or after 3 rounds of a 5 round contest, are complete, the results of the bout shall be determined as if the bout were completed.

 

12)        Disqualification occurs after any combination of 3 fouls or if the referee determines the foul to be intentional.

 

13)        Except as provided in this Section, any contestant guilty of committing a foul in a round shall be given an immediate warning and points may be deducted from the contestant's total score as determined by the referee.  The use of foul tactics may also result in the disqualification of the contestant.

 

Section 1370.640  Rounds

 

a)         Non-championship/non-title bouts.  Each non-championship/non-title bout shall be no fewer than 3 rounds of 5 minutes in length, with a one minute rest period between rounds and with a 10 second warning signal.

 

b)         Main or championship bouts.  Each main or championship bout shall be no more than 5 rounds and no fewer than 3 rounds of 5 minutes in length, with a one minute rest period between rounds and with a 10 second warning signal.

 

c)         Women's bouts shall be no fewer than 3 rounds of 2 to 5 minutes in length, with up to a 1½ minute rest period between rounds.

 

Section 1370.650  Types of Bout Results

 

A bout may end under the following results:

 

a)         Submission:

 

1)         Tap out:  when a contestant physically uses his or her hands to indicate that he or she no longer wishes to continue.

 

2)         Verbal tap out:  when a contestant verbally announces to the referee that he or she does not wish to continue.

 

b)         Knockout (KO):  Failure to rise from canvas.

 

c)         Technical Knockout (TKO):

 

1)         Referee stops bout because contestant can no longer defend himself or herself;

 

2)         Physician advises referee to stop the bout and the referee does so; or

 

3)         An injury as a result of a legal maneuver is severe enough to terminate the bout.

 

d)         Decision Via Scorecards:

 

1)         Unanimous decision:  when all 3 judges score the bout for the same contestant.

 

2)         Split decision:  when 2 judges score the bout for one contestant and one judge scores for the opponent.

 

3)         Majority decision:  when 2 judges score the bout for the same contestant and one judge scores the bout a draw.

 

e)         Draws:

 

1)         Unanimous:  when all 3 judges score the bout a draw.

 

2)         Majority:  when 2 judges score the bout a draw.

 

3)         Split:  when all 3 judges score it differently and the score total results in a draw.

 

f)         Disqualification:  When a contestant has intentionally fouled his or her opponent severely enough to terminate the contest or engages in other unsportsmanlike conduct.

 

g)         Forfeit:  When a contestant fails to begin competition or prematurely ends the contest for reasons other than injury or indicating a tap out.

 

h)         Technical Draw: When an injury sustained during competition as a result of an intentional foul causes the injured contestant to be unable to continue and the injured contestant is even or behind on the scorecards at the time of the stoppage.

 

i)          Technical Decision:  When the bout is prematurely stopped due to an injury and a contestant is leading on the scorecards.

 

j)          No Contest:  When a contestant is prematurely stopped due to accidental injury and a sufficient number of rounds have not been completed to render a decision via scorecards.

 

Section 1370.660  Scoring

 

a)         Scoring shall be by 3 licensed judges in attendance to score each bout, stationed on different sides of the ring, and the referee.  The judges shall watch every phase of the bout and make a decision if the contest lasts the full number of rounds scheduled.  They shall be ready at all times, if requested by the referee, to assist in deciding whether fouls have been committed.

 

b)         Judges shall evaluate each contestant's mixed martial arts technique using the following criteria for scoring:

 

1)         Effective and efficient striking – determining the total number of legal strikes landed.

 

2)         Effective grappling – considering the amount of successful executions of legal takedowns and reversals.  Factors to consider are takedowns from the standing position to a mount position, passing the guard to the mount position, and bottom position fighters using an active threatening guard.

 

3)         Effective control – which contestant is dictating the pace, location and position of the bout.  Factors to be considered are countering a grappler's attempt at a takedown by remaining standing and legally striking, taking an opponent down to force a ground fight, creating threatening submission attempts, passing the guard to achieve a mount and creating striking opportunities.

 

4)         Effective aggressiveness – moving forward and landing legal strikes.

 

5)         Effective defense – avoiding being struck by one's opponent, takedowns or reversals while countering with offensive strikes.

 

c)         System for Scoring a Contest

 

1)         The scoring of the contest by the judges will be by the 10-point must system.

 

2)         Under the 10-point must system, the winner of the round shall be awarded 10 points and the loser of the round shall be awarded 9 or fewer points, except for rare instances of an even round for which each contestant shall be awarded 10 points. 

 

3)         If the round is even, each contestant receives the full number of points.  No fractions of points are to be used unless otherwise directed by the Division for a particular contest.

 

4)         If a round is stopped by a referee due to an accidental foul, the round shall be scored.

SUBPART F: AMATEUR MIXED MARTIAL ARTS

 

Section 1370.700  Sanctioning Bodies – Amateur

 

a)         In determining whether an amateur sanctioning body shall be approved pursuant to Section 7 of the Act, the Division shall consider, but is not limited to, the following factors:

 

1)         the sanctioning body is exclusively or primarily dedicated to advancing the sport;

 

2)         the sanctioning body limits participation in its events to its registered members;

 

3)         the sanctioning body has a record of enforcing the rules governing a contest or exhibition;

 

4)         the record for safety of the sanctioning body; and

 

5)         Whether the rules for the sanctioning body provide substantially similar protections for the health, safety and welfare of the contestants as the Act and this Part. 

 

b)         In seeking approval under this Section, the sanctioning body shall submit this information, and other information the sanctioning body believes relevant, to the Division.  The Division may request additional information, including an appearance before the Board, to clarify information or clear up any discrepancies.  The Division may discipline up to and including revocation of approval of a sanctioning body if the sanctioning body fails to effect or enforce those representations made to the Division in obtaining approval or anytime during the course of a sanctioned event.  Unless otherwise provided for in Sections 6 and 7 of the Act, amateur events not sponsored by an approved sanctioning body are not exempt events.

 

c)         There shall be a non-refundable application processing fee of $250.  The approval shall be valid until September 30 of each odd numbered year.  The sanctioning body shall re-apply for approval on forms provided by the Division and pay a non-refundable application processing fee of $250.

 

Section 1370.710  Registration

 

a)         No contestant shall participate in a contest without being registered.

 

b)         A registrant shall complete an application provided by the Division.

 

c)         A registrant must be at least 18 years of age.

 

d)         A registrant shall disclose in writing, on a form provided by the Division, a complete medical history, including any prior or existing medical conditions.

 

e)         Amateur contestants must register with the Division, on forms provided by the Division, and shall include, without limitation: 

 

1)         A copy of current government issued photo identification (e.g., driver's license, passport);

 

2)         Proof of age (e.g., driver's license or copy of birth certificate);

 

3)         Social Security Number or tax identification number, as appropriate; and

 

4)         A passport size photo.

 

Section 1370.720  Classes and Weights of Contestants

 

a)         In mixed martial arts contests, contestants shall be classified under the following classifications:

 

Weight Class		Weights	Allowances
1)	Straw Weight	up to 115 pounds	3 pounds
2)	Flyweight	over 115 to 125 pounds	3 pounds
3)	Bantamweight	over 125 to 135 pounds	3 pounds
4)	Featherweight	over 135 to 145 pounds	5 pounds
5)	Lightweight	over 145 to 155 pounds	5 pounds
6)	Welterweight	over 155 to 170 pounds	5 pounds
7)	Middleweight	over 170 to 185 pounds	7 pounds
8)	Light Heavyweight	over 185 to 205 pounds	7 pounds
9)	Heavyweight	over 205 to 265 pounds	7 pounds
10)	Super Heavyweight	over 265 pounds

 

b)         Any contestant's change in weight class must be approved by the Division or sanctioning body.

 

c)         Contestants shall only fight contestants in their own weight class.

 

Section 1370.730  Attire and Equipment

 

a)                  Attire and Equipment for Contestants

All contestants shall comply with the following:

 

1)         Contestants shall wear athletic shorts that do not extend below the knee, such as mixed martial arts shorts, grappling or fighting shorts, boxing shorts or kickboxing shorts, or as specified in the bout agreement.

 

2)         Each contestant shall have available for the contest 2 uniforms of contrasting colors, consisting of athletic shorts as described in subsection (a)(1).  No leotard or other such costume is permitted.

 

3)         Shirts or gis shall not be worn by a contestant during a bout, unless approved by the Division.

 

4)         Knee pads, elbow pads, chest protectors (for male contestants), shin guards, headgear, or closed toe shoes shall not be allowed.

 

5)         All contestants shall wear an individually fitted mouthpiece, which shall be subject to examination and approval by the Division.

 

A)        All contestants shall have available 2 mouthpieces; and

 

B)        A round will not begin until both contestants have their respective mouthpieces in place.

 

6)         Male contestants shall wear a foul-proof groin protector.

 

7)         Female contestants:

 

A)        shall wear a breast protector during the contest with both contestants wearing the same type.  The breast protector shall be subject to examination and approval by the Division; and

 

B)        may wear a pelvic protector at the option of the contestant.

 

8)         Taping of hands, wrists and ankles will be subject to approval by the Division. 

 

9)         A contestant shall be prohibited from wearing any attire or equipment that contains any abrasive material, metal substance, or other hard material such as plastic or buckles.

 

10)         All equipment and attire, such as neoprene ankle or knee sleeves, or other emerging market materials that comprise equipment and attire, are subject to approval by the Division.  An inspector or other Division representative may direct a contestant to change any attire or equipment that he or she determines gives unfair advantage or is a threat to the health, safety or welfare of the other contestant or the public or could be deemed a detriment to the sport.

 

b)         Bandages/Handwraps

In all weight classes, seconds must adhere to the following for wrapping hands:

 

1)         The bandages/handwraps shall consist of soft gauze type cloth that is no more than 15 yards in length and not more than 2 inches in width and held in place by no more than 10 feet or one winding of surgeon's tape not over 2 inches wide.  Up to one 20 yard roll of bandage may be used to complete the wrappings for each hand;

 

2)         The surgeon's tape shall be placed directly on each hand for protection near the wrist.  The tape may cross the back of the hand twice but may not extend within three-fourths of an inch of the knuckles when the hand is clenched to make a fist;

 

3)         Bandages shall be evenly distributed across the hand;

 

4)         Bandages and tape shall be placed on the contestant's hand in the dressing room prior to the bout in the presence of the inspector.  The opposing contestant for a title may also witness the bandaging of the opponent's hands.  This privilege may be waived; and

 

5)         The Division official shall approve all bandages and taping prior to gloves being placed on any contestant and after gloves are removed.  Under no circumstances are gloves to be placed on the hands of a contestant before approval by the inspector.

 

c)         Gloves for Contestants

 

1)         Contestants competing against each other in the same bout shall wear the same weighted gloves.  Gloves shall be clearly marked or have sewn into the lining stating the official weights by the manufacturer.  When gloves are manufactured with a size mark or tag (e.g. Small, Medium, Large or Extra Large) rather than the official weight of the glove, the promoter must provide the glove manufacturer's documentation reflecting the size to weight ratio of the gloves. 

 

2)         Gloves shall be whole, clean and in good condition.  Broken gloves are prohibited during any bout or contest.

 

3)         Gloves that are padded in the palm or fingertip area are prohibited.

 

4)         All gloves shall be inspected and approved by the Division or sanctioning body prior to each bout.  The designee of the Division may inspect gloves at any time.

 

5)         Promoters must have extra sets of gloves in each size used during the contest to be used in case gloves are broken or in any way damaged during the course of a bout.  Promoters are prohibited from furnishing gloves to the Division that were provided by a contestant.

 

6)         Gloves shall be appropriate in size for the contestant and shall be no less than 6 ounces and no more than 8 ounces in weight.

 

Section 1370.740  Structure of the Fighting Area for Contests

 

a)         Contests shall be held in a ring, cage or a fenced area.

 

b)         The fighting area shall be approved by the Division, including all padding or enclosures.  Fighting areas that are not approved by the Division shall not be used.  The fighting area shall meet the following requirements:

 

1)         The fighting area:

 

A)        shall be constructed in a manner that does not pose a substantial risk to the safety or health of any person.  The fighting area must be circular or have as many as eight equal sides for a contest.  The fighting area shall be no smaller than 16 feet wide and no larger than 32 feet wide within the ropes, cage or fenced area;

 

B)        shall have a corner with a blue designation and the corner directly across shall have a red designation;

 

C)        floor shall extend at least 24 inches beyond the ropes or other barrier.  The floor must be of a canvas, duck or similar material that shall be padded with at least a one inch layer of foam padding that shall extend over the edge of the platform of the fighting area.  Vinyl or other plastic rubberized covering is prohibited.  Materials that may gather in lumps or ridges during the bout or contest are prohibited;

 

D)        platform shall be  a minimum of one foot and no more than 4 feet above the floor on which it is standing and must have suitable steps or ramps for use by officials and the contestants;

 

E)        shall have 5 fighting area ropes, when fighting area ropes are used, not less than one inch in diameter and wrapped in soft material.  The lowest rope must be no higher than 12 inches from the fighting area floor; and

 

F)         must not be obstructed by any object, including, without limitation, a triangular border, on any part of the fighting area floor.

 

2)         When fighting area ropes are used, the post:

 

A)        must be made of metal no less 3 inches and not more than 6 inches in diameter, and must be properly padded in a manner approved by the Division; and

 

B)        must be 18 inches away from the fighting area ropes.

 

3)         The fence or cage specifications for martial arts and mixed martial arts are:

 

A)        the fence or cage shall be made of material that will prevent a contestant from falling out or breaking through the fighting area onto the floor beneath the fighting area or onto spectators.  The enclosure may be composed of vinyl-coated chain link fencing or other similar material;

 

B)        any exposed metal on the interior of the fenced or caged area must be covered and padded in a manner approved by the inspector or Division representative.  The covering shall not be abrasive to the contestants;

 

C)        any metal parts used to reinforce the fenced or caged area enclosure shall not interfere with the safety of the contestants;

 

D)        the enclosure shall provide 2 separate entries onto the fighting area canvas that are sufficient to allow easy access to the fighting area by officials and emergency personnel, unless otherwise approved by the Division.  The entrances must be padded or covered so that there is no exposed metal on the interior of the fence or caged area;

 

E)        the enclosure shall not obstruct or limit the supervision and regulation of the bout by officials or Division representatives; and

 

F)         the enclosure shall not inhibit the judging of the bout in any manner.

 

Section 1370.750  Intentional and Accidental Fouls and Injuries

 

a)         The following actions in a bout or contest shall be considered fouls:

 

1)         Butting with the head;

 

2)         Eye gouging of any kind;

 

3)         Biting;

 

4)         Hair pulling;

 

5)         Fishhooking;

 

6)         Groin attacks of any kind;

 

7)         Putting a finger into any orifice or into any cut or laceration of an opponent;

 

8)         Small joint manipulation;

 

9)         Striking to the spine or the back of the head;

 

10)         Striking with the elbow;

 

11)         Knee strikes to the head;

 

12)         Heel hooks or angled leg locks;

 

13)         Spine locks;

 

14)         Neck cranks;

 

15)         Excessive slamming;

 

16)         Throws against a joint;

 

17)         Twisting leg submissions;

 

18)         Throat strikes of any kind, including, without limitation, grabbing the trachea;

 

19)         Clawing, pinching or twisting the flesh;

 

20)         Grabbing the clavicle;

 

21)         Kicking the head of a grounded opponent;

 

22)         Kneeing the head of a grounded opponent;

 

23)         Stomping a grounded opponent;

 

24)         Kicking to the kidney with the heel;

 

25)         Spiking an opponent to the canvas on his head or neck;

 

26)         Throwing an opponent out of the ring or fenced area;

 

27)         Holding the shorts or gloves of an opponent;

 

28)         Spitting at an opponent;

 

29)         Engaging in any unsportsmanlike conduct that causes injury to an opponent;

 

30)         Holding the ropes or the fence;

 

31)         Using abusive language in the ring or fenced area;

 

32)         Attacking an opponent during the break;

 

33)         Attacking an opponent who is under the care of the referee;

 

34)         Attacking an opponent after the bell has sounded the end of the period;

 

35)         Flagrantly disregarding the instructions of the referee;

 

36)         Timidity, including, without limitation, avoiding contact with an opponent, intentionally or consistently dropping the mouthpiece or faking an injury;

 

37)         Interference by the corner from anyone working a contestant's corner, including leaving the corner's designated area;

 

38)         Any act in the judgment of the referee that is detrimental and places an opponent at a disadvantage or risk, such as applying a foreign substance to one's hair, body, clothing or gloves prior to or during a contest; and

 

39)         Throwing in the towel during competition.

 

b)         Injuries

 

1)         The referee, at his or her discretion, may request that the physician examine a contestant during the bout.  Should the examination occur during the course of a round, the clock shall be stopped until the examination is completed.  The physician may recommend that the referee stop the bout, in which case the referee shall render the appropriate decision.

 

2)         In the event of serious cuts or injuries, the referee shall summon the physician who shall advise whether the bout should be stopped.

 

3)         A referee may consider the decision of the physician.

 

4)         The referee shall be authorized to determine if injuries were produced by a foul, and if the foul was intentional or accidental.

 

c)         Injuries Sustained by Fair Blows and Fouls

 

1)         Fair Blows

If injury is severe enough to terminate a contest, the injured contestant loses by technical knockout (TKO).

 

2)         Fouls

 

A)        Intentional

 

i)          If an intentional foul causes an injury, and the injury is severe enough to terminate a bout immediately, the contestant causing the injury shall lose by disqualification.

 

ii)         If an intentional foul causes an injury and the bout is allowed to continue, the referee may notify the Division representative and may deduct points from the contestant who caused the foul.

 

iii)        If an intentional foul causes an injury and the injury results in the bout being stopped in a later round, the injured contestant shall win by technical decision if he or she is ahead on the scorecards, or the bout shall result in a technical draw if the injured contestant is behind or even on the scorecards.

 

iv)        If a contestant injures himself or herself while attempting to intentionally foul his or her opponent, the referee shall not take any action in his or her favor, and this injury shall be the same as one produced by a fair blow.

 

v)         If the referee believes that a contestant has conducted himself or herself in an unsportsmanlike manner, the referee may stop the bout and disqualify the contestant.

 

B)        Accidental

 

i)          If the referee determines, either from his or her own observation or on the advise of the physician, that the bout may not continue because of the injury from the accidental foul, the bout will be declared a no contest if the foul occurred:

 

·           during the first 2 rounds of a non-championship bout; or

 

·           during the first 3 rounds of a championship bout.

 

ii)         If the referee determines, either from his or her own observation or on the advise of the physician, that the bout may not continue because of the injury from the accidental foul, the bout will be determined by scoring the completed rounds and the round in which the referee stops the bout if the foul occurred:

 

·           after the completion of the second round in a non-championship bout; or

 

·           after the completion of the third round in a championship bout.

 

iii)        A contestant who is hit with an accidental low-blow must continue after a reasonable amount of time, but no more than 5 minutes, or he or she may lose the bout by technical knockout.

 

iv)        If an injury from an accidental foul later becomes aggravated by fair blows and the referee orders the bout stopped because of the injury, the outcome must be determined by scoring the completed rounds and the round in which the referee stops the contest.

 

3)         In assessing fouls, the referee shall weigh the cause, as well as the effect.  If the referee has seen an unauthorized blow, strike or attack delivered that has a damaging effect, the referee may permit a rest period to the victim not to exceed 5 minutes.  During the rest period, seconds may not assist or coach the injured contestant.  The offending contestant shall go to a neutral corner and shall not be coached during the period.

 

4)         At the discretion of the referee, the referee may give an official warning or penalty to the offending contestant for the unauthorized blow, strike or attack, and then may give the command to continue after the end of the rest period if the contestant who received the unauthorized blow, strike or attack indicates ability to continue the bout.  If the injured contestant refuses to continue after a 5 minute rest period, the opponent shall be named the winner.

 

5)         Repeated unauthorized blows, strikes or attacks shall be penalized with deduction of points from the offending contestant or disqualification of the offending contestant.

 

6)         A contestant cannot be named the winner of a bout as the result of receiving an unauthorized blow, strike or attack, or low blow unless, in the opinion of the referee, the unauthorized blow, strike or attack was delivered deliberately and with enough force to seriously incapacitate the injured contestant so that he or she could not continue the bout.  Under this condition, the offender shall be dis­qualified immediately.

 

7)         A fouled contestant has up to 5 minutes to recuperate.

 

8)         Only the referee can assess a foul and any point deductions.  If the referee does not call the foul, judges shall not make that assessment on their own.

 

9)         If a foul is committed:

 

A)        The referee shall call time.

 

B)        The referee shall check the fouled contestant's condition and safety.

 

C)        The referee shall then assess the foul to the offending contestant, deduct points and notify the seconds, judges and official scorekeeper.

 

10)         If a bottom contestant commits a foul, unless the top contestant is injured, the contest will continue.

 

A)        The referee will verbally notify the bottom contestant of the foul.

 

B)        When the round is over, the referee will assess the foul and notify both corners, the judges and the official scorekeeper.

 

C)        The referee may terminate a bout based on the severity of a foul.  If the referee terminates a bout under such circumstances, the contestant committing the foul shall lose by disqualification.

 

11)        When any injury is severe enough for the referee to stop the contest immediately after 2 rounds of a 3 round contest, or after 3 rounds of a 5 round contest, are complete, the results of the bout shall be determined as if the bout was completed.

 

12)        Disqualification occurs after any combination of 3 fouls or if the referee determines the foul to be intentional.

 

13)        Except as provided in this Section, any contestant guilty of committing a foul in a round shall be given an immediate warning and points may be deducted from the contestant's total score as determined by the referee.  The use of foul tactics may also result in the disqualification of the contestant.

 

Section 1370.760  Rounds

 

a)         Non-championship/non-title bouts.  Each non-championship/non-title bout shall be no fewer than 3 rounds of 3 minutes in length, with up to a 1½ minute rest period between rounds, with up to a 15 second warning signal.

 

b)         Championship/title bouts.  Each championship/title bout shall be no more than 5 rounds and no fewer than 3 rounds of 3 minutes in length, with a one minute rest period between rounds, with up to a 15 second warning signal.

 

c)         Women's bouts shall be no more than 3 rounds of 2 minutes in length up to 3 minutes in length, with up to a 1½ minute rest period between rounds, with up to a 15 second warning signal.

 

Section 1370.770  Types of Bout Results

 

A bout may end under the following results:

 

a)         Submission:

 

1)         Tap out:  when a contestant physically uses his or her hands to indicate that he or she no longer wishes to continue.

 

2)         Verbal tap out:  when a contestant verbally announces to the referee that he or she does not wish to continue.

 

b)         Knockout (KO):  Failure to rise from canvas.

 

c)         Technical Knockout (TKO):

 

1)         Referee stops bout because contestant can no longer defend himself or herself;

 

2)         Physician advises referee to stop the bout and the referee does so; or

 

3)         An injury as a result of a legal maneuver is severe enough to terminate the bout.

 

d)         Decision Via Scorecards:

 

1)         Unanimous decision:  when all 3 judges score the bout for the same contestant.

 

2)         Split decision:  when 2 judges score the bout for one contestant and one judge scores for the opponent.

 

3)         Majority decision:  when 2 judges score the bout for the same contestant and one judge scores the bout a draw.

 

e)         Draws:

 

1)         Unanimous:  when all 3 judges score the bout a draw.

 

2)         Majority:  when 2 judges score the bout a draw.

 

3)         Split:  when all 3 judges score it differently and the score total results in a draw.

 

f)         Disqualification:  when a contestant has intentionally fouled his or her opponent severely enough to terminate the contest or engages in other unsportsmanlike conduct.

 

g)         Forfeit:  when a contestant fails to begin competition or prematurely ends the contest for reasons other than injury or indicating a tap out.

 

h)         Technical Draw:  when an injury sustained during competition as a result of an intentional foul causes the injured contestant to be unable to continue and the injured contestant is even or behind on the scorecards at the time of the stoppage.

 

i)          Technical Decision:  when the bout is prematurely stopped due to an injury and a contestant is leading on the scorecards.

 

j)          No Contest:  when a contest is prematurely stopped due to accidental injury and a sufficient number of rounds have not been completed to render a decision via scorecards.

 

Section 1370.780  Scoring

 

a)         Scoring shall be by 3 judges in attendance to score each bout, stationed on different sides of the ring, and the referee.  The judges shall watch every phase of the bout and make a decision if the contest lasts the full number of rounds scheduled.  They shall be ready at all times, if requested by the referee, to assist in deciding whether fouls have been committed.

 

b)         Judges shall evaluate each contestant's mixed martial art technique using the following criteria for scoring:

 

1)         Effective and efficient striking – determining the total number of legal strikes landed.

 

2)         Effective grappling – considering the amount of successful executions of legal takedowns and reversals.  Factors to consider are takedowns from the standing position to a mount position, passing the guard to the mount position, and bottom position fighters using an active threatening guard.

 

3)         Effective control – which contestant is dictating the pace, location and position of the bout.  Factors to be considered are countering a grappler's attempt at a takedown by remaining standing and legally striking, taking an opponent down to force a ground fight, creating threatening submission attempts, passing the guard to achieve a mount, and creating striking opportunities.

 

4)         Effective aggressiveness – moving forward and landing legal strikes.

 

5)         Effective defense – avoiding being struck by one's opponent, takedowns or reversals while countering with offensive strikes.

 

c)         System for Scoring a Contest

 

1)         The scoring of the contest by the judges will be by the 10-point must system.

 

2)         Under the 10-point must system, the winner of the round shall be awarded 10 points and the loser of the round shall be awarded 9 or fewer points, except for rare instances of an even round for which each contestant shall be awarded 10 points. 

 

3)         If the round is even, each contestant receives the full number of points.  No fractions of points are to be used unless otherwise directed by the Division for a particular contest.

 

4)         If a round is stopped by a referee due to an accidental foul, the round shall be scored.