Boxing Scoring Rules
In boxing, the scoring is based on the 10-point must system. Here are the key rules for scoring in boxing:
- 10-Point Must System: The winner of each round receives 10 points, and the opponent usually receives a lower score, which can be 9 or fewer points.
- Dominance: The boxer who demonstrates more skill, effective aggression, defense, and overall control in a round is typically awarded 10 points for that round.
- Even Rounds: If the round is closely contested, both boxers may receive 10 points, resulting in a 10-10 round.
- Knockdowns: If a boxer scores a knockdown, the opponent usually loses a point, resulting in a 10-8 round for the boxer who scored the knockdown. If a boxer scores multiple knockdowns in a round, it may be scored as a 10-7 round.
- Point Deductions: Referees can deduct points for various rule violations, such as low blows, holding, or unsportsmanlike conduct. The score for the round will reflect the deduction, such as 10-9 if one point is deducted.
- Technical Knockout (TKO): If a boxer is unable to continue the fight due to injury or other reasons, the bout may be stopped, and the opposing boxer is usually declared the winner by TKO.
- Judges' Decision: If the fight goes the distance (all scheduled rounds are completed), the judges' scorecards determine the winner. The boxer with the higher total score across all judges is declared the winner.