Title 09 — Subtitle 14. State Athletic Commission

Chapter 01. General Provisions

Regulation .01 Definitions.Link Copy Citation

In these regulations, the following terms have the meanings indicated.

Terms Defined.

(1)

“Commission” means the State Athletic Commission of Maryland.

(2)

Contest.

(a)

“Contest” means any boxing, kickboxing, or wrestling:

(i)

Competition;

(ii)

Exhibition;

(iii)

Match;

(iv)

Performance; or

(v)

Show.

(b)

“Contest” includes a mixed martial arts:

(i)

Competition;

(ii)

Match;

(iii)

Performance; or

(iv)

Show.

(c)

“Contest” does not include a mixed martial arts exhibition.

(3)

“Contestant” means a boxer, kickboxer, or mixed martial arts contestant who participates against an opponent in a contest.

(4)

“Kickboxing” means a contest or exhibition in which blows are delivered with the hand or leg, including the foot.

(5)

Manager.

(a)

“Manager” means a person who, under contract, agreement, or other arrangement, undertakes to control or administer, directly or indirectly, a contest-related matter on behalf of a contestant.

(b)

“Manager” includes, but is not limited to:

(i)

A booking agent; and

(ii)

An advisor.

(6)

“Mixed martial arts” means a competition in which contestants use interdisciplinary forms of fighting, including various forms of martial arts, involving:

(a)

Striking with the hands, feet, knees, or elbows; and

(b)

Grappling by take-downs, throws, submissions, or choke holds.

(7)

“Mixed Martial Arts Exhibition” means a mixed martial arts event in which:

(a)

Contact to the body is permitted in only a restrained manner;

(b)

Contact to the head is not permitted; and

(c)

No contact is permitted that may result, or is intended to result, in physical harm to an opponent.

(8)

“Official record” means the cumulative results of those boxing, kickboxing, or mixed martial arts contests, sanctioned by a regulatory agency, in which a contestant has participated.

(9)

“Physician” means an individual currently licensed to practice medicine in this State or any state where the individual resides.

(10)

“Promoter” means any individual, partnership, corporation, club, association, or other organization that gives, holds, or otherwise conducts a contest within the State.

(11)

“Regulatory agency” means a commission, board, or other entity of a state, commonwealth, territory, or country, created by law or executive order, which regulates boxing, kickboxing, wrestling, or mixed martial arts.

(12)

“Second” means an individual who assists a boxer, kickboxer, mixed martial arts contestant, or wrestler during a contest.

Regulation .02 Meetings.Link Copy Citation

The Commission shall meet regularly on a date and time as published on the Commission’s website, pursuant to General Provisions Article, §3-302(c), Annotated Code of Maryland.

In an emergency, the Commission may also meet specially at any time upon the request of the Chairman.

Regulation .03 Affiliations.Link Copy Citation

The Commission may affiliate with or obtain membership in national or international boxing or wrestling organizations.

The Commission may adopt any of the regulations of the affiliate organizations.

Regulation .04 Charitable Events.Link Copy Citation

A promoter holding a contest to raise funds for a charitable purpose shall file, before the contest, the following information:

(1)

The name of the charity the contest benefits;

(2)

The amount or percentage of the gross receipts from the contest to be paid to the charity; and

(3)

A certificate of registration from the Secretary of State.

The Commission shall advise the Secretary of State that a charity contest is scheduled and the names of the principal parties.

Regulation .05 Chairman.Link Copy Citation

At its last meeting preceding each fiscal year, the Commission shall elect a member to be chairman.

The term of a chairman shall be 1 year.

A member may serve as chairman for an unlimited number of consecutive terms.

Chapter 02. Applications and Licensing

Regulation .01 License Required.Link Copy Citation

A person or organization required to be licensed by the Commission under Business Regulation Article, Title 4, Subtitle 3, Annotated Code of Maryland, shall file an application on forms approved by the Commission.

Persons requiring a license include:

(1)

Boxer;

(2)

Manager;

(3)

Matchmaker;

(4)

Promoter;

(5)

Second;

(6)

Wrestler;

(7)

Referee;

(8)

Kickboxer;

(9)

Judge; and

(10)

Mixed martial arts contestant.

Requirements stated in this regulation are in addition to the requirements of Business Regulation Article, §§4-301—4-322, Annotated Code of Maryland.

The licensing period for referees and judges is from July 1 to June 30 of each year.

Regulation .02 Contestants.Link Copy Citation

An applicant for a license as a contestant shall be:

(1)

At least 18 years old;

(2)

Not more than 36 years old unless special permission is granted by the Commission upon a review of the applicant's experience and physical fitness.

An applicant shall submit medical reports required by COMAR 09.14.04.

An applicant shall have a licensed manager, licensed second, or qualified licensee certify to the Commission that the applicant is physically competent as a contestant and possesses the skill of a trained contestant in the sport for which the applicant is seeking a license, including:

(1)

Competence in the elements of offense and defense;

(2)

Clean hitting;

(3)

Ring generalship; and

(4)

Physical stamina to participate in:

(a)

At least four 3-minute rounds of boxing or kickboxing, if the application is for a boxer or kickboxer license; or

(b)

At least three 5-minute rounds of mixed martial arts, if the application is for a mixed martial arts contestant license.

Proof of amateur experience will be required for a contestant’s first professional bout verified through USA Boxing.

An applicant shall submit two recent passport-size color photographs with an application.

Regulation .03 Managers.Link Copy Citation

An applicant shall provide the Commission with a complete list of all Maryland contestants under the applicant's control.

A licensed manager may act as second without obtaining a second's license.

A licensed manager is responsible for the conduct of the contestants under the manager's control.

Regulation .03-1 Second.Link Copy Citation

An individual younger than 18 years old may not be licensed as a second.

Regulation .04 Matchmaker.Link Copy Citation

An individual, partnership, corporation, or other organization arranging the match-up for a contest shall be licensed as a matchmaker.

A licensed matchmaker may not:

(1)

Be a licensed manager;

(2)

Directly or indirectly manage a contestant; or

(3)

Have a financial interest in a contestant who is participating in a contest that is part of the boxing, kickboxing, or mixed martial arts show in which the matchmaker is acting.

Regulation .05 Promoters.Link Copy Citation

An applicant shall submit with an application a financial statement that has been notarized or certified by a certified public accountant and contains the following:

(1)

Assets separately itemized;

(2)

Liabilities separately itemized; and

(3)

Other financial information that may be requested by the Commission.

In addition to the requirements of §A, of this regulation, a corporate applicant shall submit:

(1)

A list of its articles of incorporation;

(2)

A list of officers; and

(3)

The name of the chief executive official designated to be responsible for all matters pertaining to the corporation.

Upon request of the Commission, an applicant shall provide additional evidence to demonstrate that the applicant has evidence concerning the financial ability to pay the taxes, purses, arena rental, personnel, advertising, and other expenses related to the contest.

An applicant for an original license shall appear in person at the offices of the Commission.

A licensed promoter may not delegate its duties and responsibilities to another party.

A surety bond, as required by Business Regulation Article, §4-306, Annotated Code of Maryland, to be executed by a promoter, shall be issued by a company which is an authorized insurer in this State and which is recognized by a national rating agency as having a rating of B or higher.

Regulation .06 Wrestlers.Link Copy Citation

An individual under 18 years old may not be licensed.

An applicant who does not have professional or amateur wrestling experience, upon request, shall demonstrate to the Commission or its authorized representative that the applicant is properly trained in the art of wrestling.

Regulation .06-1 Referees.Link Copy Citation

Except as otherwise provided in this regulation, an applicant for an original license to act as a referee in a contest shall:

(1)

Be at least 18 years old;

(2)

Complete a course of training, approved by the Commission, which encompasses the elements of officiating in the sport in which the applicant seeks to officiate; and

(3)

Receive certification by the Association of Boxing Commissions (ABC), the World Boxing Council (WBC),the World Boxing Association (WBA), the World Boxing Organization (WBO), or the International Boxing Federation (IBF).

The Commission may require an applicant for license renewal to be recertified under the requirements of §A of this regulation.

The Commission may waive the requirements of §A of this regulation for a nonresident applicant in a contest if the applicant submits a certification from another regulatory agency verifying that the applicant is qualified to act as a referee in the sport in which the applicant seeks to officiate.

Regulation .06-2 Judges.Link Copy Citation

Except as otherwise provided in this regulation, an applicant for an original license to act as a judge in a boxing, kickboxing, or mixed martial arts contest shall:

(1)

Be at least 18 years old;

(2)

Complete a course of training, approved by the Commission, which encompasses the elements of officiating in the sport in which the applicant seeks to officiate; and

(3)

Receive certification by the Association of Boxing Commissions (ABC), the World Boxing Council (WBC), the World Boxing Association (WBA), the World Boxing Organization (WBO), or the International Boxing Federation (IBF).

The Commission may require an applicant for license renewal to be recertified under the requirements of §A of this regulation.

The Commission may waive the requirements of §A of this regulation for a nonresident applicant in a boxing, kickboxing, or mixed martial arts contest if the applicant submits a certification from another regulatory agency verifying that the applicant is qualified to act as a judge in the sport in which the applicant seeks to officiate.

Regulation .07 License Denial, Suspension, Fines, and Revocation.Link Copy Citation

The Commission may deny a license to any applicant or revoke a license if the applicant or licensee:

(1)

Has been convicted of a felony or a crime involving moral turpitude;

(2)

Has violated a regulation or order of the Commission;

(3)

Has violated a directive of the Commission or its representatives;

(4)

Has failed to demonstrate to the satisfaction of the Commission the physical competence to participate as a contestant;

(5)

Has failed to comply with any safety and health standards in COMAR 09.14.04;

(6)

Fraudulently or deceptively obtains or attempts to obtain a license for the applicant or for another;

(7)

Fraudulently or deceptively uses a license; or

(8)

Has failed to properly supervise the activities of an official or employee of the licensee.

In addition to or instead of a period of suspension, the Commission may impose a monetary fine not to exceed $2,000 per violation.

If a license application is denied, an applicant may not reapply for a license for at least 1 year from the date of the denial.

If a license is revoked, the Commission may provide for a minimum period of time before receiving a new application.

Regulation .08 Failure to Respond.Link Copy Citation

If an applicant or licensee receives from the Commission a written communication requesting a response, the applicant or licensee shall respond within 30 days of the date of the mailing.

The Commission shall send a written communication by first-class mail to the last address furnished to the Commission by an applicant or licensee.

It is a responsibility of an applicant or licensee to notify the Commission in writing if there has been a change in applicant’s or licensee’s address.

Failure to respond as required by this regulation may be considered by the Commission to be a violation of Business Regulation Article, §4-310(a)(1)(iii) or (iv), Annotated Code of Maryland.

Chapter 03. Contracts and Sanctions

Regulation .01 Contract Between Manager and Contestant.Link Copy Citation

Except as otherwise indicated, a contract between a contestant and a manager shall be:

(1)

Notarized; and

(2)

Filed with the Commission 5 business days before the contestant first participates in a contest in this State.

Provisions of Contract.

(1)

An executed original contract between a manager and a contestant shall be filed with the Commission.

(2)

A contract shall include the following provisions:

(a)

That there is no financial interest in the earnings of the contestant by any person other than the manager or managers of the contestant;

(b)

That a manager or managers will receive not more than 33-1/3 percent of the gross earnings of the contestant;

(c)

That the contract has a duration of not more than 5 years;

(d)

That the contract may not be extended beyond its initial term; and

(e)

That the contestant shall comply with all laws, regulations, and directives of the Commission.

An assignment of interest in a contract filed with the Commission may not be valid unless it is approved by the Commission.

A manager may not sign a promoter-contestant contract on behalf of a contestant which obligates the contestant to compete in an event scheduled to take place after the expiration of the contract between the manager and contestant.

A contestant may not sign a contract with any other manager during the term of an existing contract the contestant may have with a manager.

Regulation .02 Contract Between Promoter and Contestant.Link Copy Citation

A contract between a promoter and a contestant shall include the following provisions:

(1)

The amount of guarantee or percentage promised by the promoter to the contestant;

(2)

The number and time limit of rounds;

(3)

The time and location that the contestants are scheduled to appear;

(4)

Weight specifications of the contestants;

(5)

A prohibition against the contestant engaging in a contest at least 14 days before the contest stated in the contract;

(6)

Legal rights and obligations of the contracting parties;

(7)

A provision stating that:

(a)

Drug testing is mandatory in boxing, kickboxing, and mixed martial arts contests sanctioned by the State Athletic Commission;

(b)

Signing the contract is consent to submit to drug testing supervised by the Commission;

(c)

Refusing to submit to the urine test subjects a contestant to disciplinary action by the Commission; and

(d)

Testing positive for prohibited drugs:

(i)

Is cause for a contestant to forfeit the purse set; and

(ii)

Subjects a contestant to disciplinary action by the Commission; and

(8)

The contestant agrees to comply with all laws, regulations, and directives of the Commission.

Unless the Commission otherwise approves, contracts for main event contestants shall be filed with the Commission with the request for sanction.

Unless the Commission otherwise approves, contracts for other contestants in a contest shall be submitted to the Commission not later than 5 business days before the date of the contest.

A promoter may not pay a purse specified in the contract until the Commission gives written approval to the promoter.

Unless the Commission otherwise approves, a contestant, or a manager on behalf of a contestant, may not obligate a contestant to participate in any boxing, kickboxing, or mixed martial arts contest within 14 days before or after a date on which the contestant participates or is contracted to participate in another contest.

For the purposes of this regulation, the promoter-contestant contract received first in time by the Commission prevails over any other promoter-contestant contract.

Failure to Appear.

(1)

Except as provided below, if a contestant absents himself from a contest for which the contestant is contractually obligated to participate, the contestant and the manager of the contestant are subject to disciplinary action.

(2)

If a contestant is unable to fulfill a contract due to a physical disability, the contestant shall be placed on medical suspension until the Commission receives documentation of the contestant's physical disability signed by a licensed physician. Upon the expiration of the suspension, the contestant shall fulfill the contract against the same opponent or similar opponent within a reasonable amount of time as set by the Commission, unless the contestant obtains a written release from the contract by the promoter.

(3)

If a contestant presents a valid written excuse for not fulfilling the contract, the contestant shall, when the reasons necessitating the excuse no longer apply, fulfill the contract against the same opponent or a similar opponent within a reasonable period of time.

Regulation .03 Commission Sanction Required.Link Copy Citation

A contest may not take place unless sanctioned by the Commission.

Promoters shall file a written request for a sanction with the Commission at least 30 days before a boxing, kickboxing, or mixed martial arts contest containing the following information:

(1)

The names of the main event contestants;

(2)

The time, date, and location of the contest;

(3)

A plan for the employment of uniformed security at the contest; and

(4)

Other information as may be required by the Commission.

Before a contest is sanctioned by the Commission, a promoter may not:

(1)

Advertise or give notice through any medium that the contest is to take place; or

(2)

Sell or distribute any tickets to the contest.

Substitution of Contestants.

(1)

If either of the contestants in the main event contest is unable to appear on the night of the contest, a substitute contestant may not participate unless a new sanction is obtained from the Commission.

(2)

If a substitution occurs under §D(1), of this regulation, the price of admission printed on tickets shall be refunded upon request to each spectator at the box office in accordance with COMAR 09.14.09.

Each contestant shall be insured through a group insurance policy provided by the Commission as follows:

(1)

Minimum medical expense coverage of $10,000; and

(2)

Minimum coverage of $10,000 for death, dismemberment, or loss of sight.

The terms and conditions of the coverage in §E of this regulation shall be governed by the insurance policy between the Commission and its insurance carrier.

Nothing in this regulation shall preclude a promoter from providing coverage in excess of the coverage stated in §E of this regulation.

If the promoter provides insurance coverage, a copy of the policy shall be given to the Commission not later than the final physical and shall list the Commission as an additional insured.

The Commission may cancel a sanction obtained through fraud or misrepresentation.

A contest may be cancelled at the exclusive discretion of the Commission.

Chapter 04. Safety and Health Standards for Contestants

Regulation .01 Medical Examinations.Link Copy Citation

A contestant applying for a license or license renewal shall have a comprehensive physical examination by the applicant's personal physician performed within 30 days before the application is submitted to the Commission.

The findings from a physical examination under §A of this regulation shall be reported by the applicant to the Commission at least 5 business days before the date of the contest.

Regulation .02 Ophthalmological Evaluation.Link Copy Citation

In this regulation, “ophthalmological evaluation” means an examination by an ophthalmologist to detect abnormalities of a person's vision and includes, but is not limited to:

(1)

Assessment of the cornea, lens, macula, and retina of the eye;

(2)

Visual acuity; and

(3)

Peripheral vision.

A contestant applying for a license or license renewal shall submit to the Commission an ophthalmological evaluation completed by an ophthalmologist licensed by or eligible for certification by the American Board of Ophthalmology, performed within 30 days before the date of filing the application.

The evaluation under §B shall include an official report of the indirect ophthalmoscopy and slit lamp.

The findings from the evaluation under §§B and C of this regulation shall be reported to the Commission at least 5 business days before the date of the contest.

In order to participate in a contest, a contestant shall pass an ophthalmological evaluation and:

(1)

Have visual acuity:

(a)

Of at least 20/80 in both eyes, or

(b)

Between 20/80 and 20/200, with special permission of the Commission; and

(2)

Have 100 percent peripheral vision in both eyes.

Regulation .03 Neurological Testing.Link Copy Citation

In this regulation “neurological test” means an examination by a physician to detect abnormalities of the nervous system and includes, but is not limited to:

(1)

Assessment of mental status, cranial nerves, motor function including power, tone, and bulk, cerebellar function, deep tendon reflexes, and plantar responses;

(2)

Physical examination;

(3)

Laboratory procedure; and

(4)

Other specialized testing.

A contestant shall be examined by a neurologist or neurosurgeon appointed by the Commission before the contestant's first bout in Maryland each licensed period and annually after that.

The Commission shall require a contestant to be reexamined by a neurologist or neurosurgeon, appointed by the Commission, before participating in a contest:

(1)

If the contestant has participated in more than 12 contests in or outside the State;

(2)

If the contestant has been knocked out or receives a technical knockout as a result of neurological injury in two consecutive contests; or

(3)

Upon recommendation of a ringside physician.

The Commission may require a contestant to undergo additional neurological testing and evaluation as prescribed by the examining neurosurgeon or neurologist.

A neurologist or neurosurgeon, appointed by the Commission, shall be licensed in Maryland and be certified by the American Board of Neurological Surgery or the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.

A contestant may not be licensed or permitted to participate in a contest if the neurological examination demonstrates abnormalities suggestive of acute, subacute, or chronic nervous system abnormalities.

Regulation .04 Precontest Examinations.Link Copy Citation

A contestant and any substitute contestant shall undergo a final physical examination by a physician at a location, and on a date and time, approved by the Commission.

A contestant may not engage in a contest if any of the following physical conditions are determined by the Commission’s physician:

(1)

A significant hernia or varicocele;

(2)

Organic heart murmurs or dysrhythmia;

(3)

Active pulmonary lesions;

(4)

Vision that fails to meet the requirements of Regulation .02E of this chapter;

(5)

Oral temperature over 100°F;

(6)

Systolic pressure or diastolic pressure outside of acceptable limits;

(7)

Infectious skin lesions, such as boils or infected wounds;

(8)

Wounds, especially on face and ears, that are incompletely or poorly healed;

(9)

Hand injuries and fractures less than 6 weeks old that would be detrimental to the contestant's showing or to subsequent healing;

(10)

Use of narcotics, stimulants, depressants, or strong analgesics; or

(11)

Detached retina, retinal tear, or macular hole in one or both eyes.

Upon certification by a contestant's ophthalmologist who performed the operation, and upon review and approval of the Commission's senior physician, a repaired retinal abnormality may not automatically disqualify a contestant from participation in a contest. Documentation shall be submitted to the Commission 1 month in advance.

The Commission may cancel a boxing contest if either contestant in a contest fails to appear for the final physical by 12 p.m. on the day of the contest.

Within 1 hour before the first contest, the Commission's physician may, at any time, conduct a brief examination to determine if a contestant's physical condition has changed since the final physical.

A referee shall be given a physical examination before officiating a contest.

A contestant under contract who is injured or becomes ill before a contest shall submit to the Commission, before the date of the contest, a notarized medical report by a physician detailing the nature of the injury or illness and the prognosis for recovery.

On the date of the contest, a contestant shall declare use of any medication on the final physical examination form including the name, the dosage, and the time of the last injection or ingestion of any prescription or non-prescription drug.

The Commission shall provide the contestant with a written statement which explains the contestant's rights and responsibilities under these regulations at the pre-fight examination on the date of the contest.

Regulation .05 Physician at Contest.Link Copy Citation

The Commission shall appoint at least two physicians to insure the safety and health of all contestants in a contest.

One of the physicians appointed under §A of this regulation, may be a neurosurgeon or a neurologist.

The Commission shall designate a senior physician.

A senior physician has the following authority to:

(1)

Interrupt a contest at any time to examine a contestant;

(2)

Terminate a contest at any time after determining that serious injury has occurred or is immediately likely to occur to either contestant, or when a contestant is bleeding sufficiently to provide a health hazard to spectators and personnel;

(3)

Admit a contestant to a medical facility; and

(4)

Require a contestant to submit to a blood test or urinalysis.

The Commission shall designate ringside physicians.

The senior physician and ringside physician may render emergency treatment to a contestant on-site or while traveling to a hospital.

Regulation .06 Ringside Medical Equipment and Materials.Link Copy Citation

The following items shall be available in good working order before each contest begins:

(1)

A stretcher;

(2)

A portable resuscitator or Ambubag with oxygen equipment;

(3)

A hard cervical collar;

(4)

Endotracheal tubes with laryngoscope;

(5)

A portable defibrillator; and

(6)

Advanced life-support medications.

Only the following materials shall be allowed in a contestant's corner:

(1)

Ice;

(2)

Water;

(3)

Cotton swabs;

(4)

Gauze pads;

(5)

Clean towels;

(6)

Aventine;

(7)

Adrenaline (one part per thousand solution);

(8)

Medical diachylon tape;

(9)

Enswell;

(10)

Petroleum jelly;

(11)

Safety scissors; and

(12)

Disposable latex examination gloves.

Regulation .07 Protection Materials.Link Copy Citation

A contestant shall use a custom fitted mouthpiece with palate and a professional protection cup during the contest.

Regulation .08 Proximity of Contest to Emergency Medical Facilities.Link Copy Citation

The location of a contest may not be more than 15 minutes by ambulance from a hospital providing neurosurgical evaluation and treatment facilities, with a neurosurgeon on call.

The medical facility in §A of this regulation, shall be notified by the State Athletic Commission 24 hours before a contest of the time and location of the contest, with a request for a neurosurgeon to be on call.

Regulation .09 Post-Fight Examinations.Link Copy Citation

A contestant shall be given a brief post-fight physical examination by the ringside physician.

The ringside physician shall complete a post-fight medical recommendation form and give copies of the form to the contestant and the contestant's manager.

The following individuals shall remain in the arena and be available for medical evaluation until released by the senior physician:

(1)

A contestant suffering a knockout or technical knockout; or

(2)

A contestant who requires observation in the opinion of the ringside physician.

Regulation .10 Medical Suspensions.Link Copy Citation

Medical suspensions may be issued at the discretion of the physician appointed by the Commission.

The following shall constitute mandatory grounds for medical suspension and minimum duration:

(1)

Laceration ... 30 days;

(2)

Technical knockout ... 30 days;

(3)

Knockout or technical knockout with loss of consciousness (first occurrence) ... 60 days;

(4)

Knockout or technical knockout with loss of consciousness (second consecutive occurrence):

(a)

Not less than 70 days from the date of the second occurrence, and

(b)

Not less than 120 days from the date of the first occurrence;

(5)

Knockout or technical knockout with loss of consciousness (third consecutive occurrence) ... indefinite;

(6)

Poorly conditioned ... 42 days;

(7)

Physically demanding contest or excessive blows to the head ... 30 to 60 days.

A contestant suspended indefinitely shall remain suspended until a medical examination specified by the Commission has been completed and the Commission has determined that the contestant has satisfactorily recovered.

Unless the Commission otherwise approves, a contestant may not participate in another contest:

(1)

For at least 14 days after a contest of four to eight rounds duration; and

(2)

For at least 28 days after a contest of more than eight rounds duration.

A contestant whose urine test results are positive shall be suspended pending a hearing.

Knockout occurrences in other states, suspensions, and durations of contests shall be used in determining the length of medical suspensions and the fitness of a contestant to compete.

Regulation .11 Duties of Promoter.Link Copy Citation

A promoter shall furnish the following for a boxing, kickboxing, or mixed martial arts contest:

(1)

Sanitary dressing rooms for contestants that contain a restroom, rest table, and facilities for Commission physicians to examine contestants before and after a contest;

(2)

Emergency procedures at least 7 days before the date of the contest to the Commission for removing an injured contestant to a hospital pursuant to Regulation .08 of this chapter;

(3)

A ring conforming with the specifications of the Commission;

(4)

An ambulance to transport an injured contestant to a medical facility as required in Regulation .08A of this chapter; and

(5)

An ambulance crew consisting of:

(a)

One emergency medical technician—paramedic (EMT-P); and

(b)

One emergency medical technician—basic (EMT-B).

A promoter shall instruct contestants, managers, and individuals in charge of the arena in the safety standards of the Commission.

A promoter shall follow all safety standards required by the Commission and shall take all reasonable precautions to insure the safety and health of contestants, officials, and spectators.

Regulation .12 Female Contestant.Link Copy Citation

A contest between female contestants shall be subject to all the requirements of this chapter.

The following requirements for a female contestant are in addition to the requirements under §A of this regulation:

(1)

A female contestant may not contract for, or engage in, a contest with a male contestant;

(2)

Contests shall be limited as follows:

(a)

Not more than eight rounds of 2-minute duration with a 1-minute rest period between rounds, depending on the skills of the contestants competing; and

(b)

Eight rounds of 2-minute duration with a 1-minute rest period between rounds for a championship contest;

(3)

An abdominal guard shall be worn and a breast protector shall be used as a binder;

(4)

Hair shall be secured in a manner that it does not interfere with the vision or safety of either contestant;

(5)

A boxer who is pregnant may not engage in a contest;

(6)

Promoters shall provide adequate, separate dressing rooms;

(7)

Cosmetic use shall be prohibited;

(8)

An examination under Regulation .01 of this chapter shall include a pelvic examination;

(9)

An examination under Regulation .04 of this chapter shall include an abdominal and breast examination with notations of any masses; and

(10)

Gloves used in the contest shall be:

(a)

8 ounces for weight classifications less than 148 pounds; and

(b)

10 ounces for weight classifications 148 pounds or greater.

A female contestant shall:

(1)

Take a HCG serum pregnancy test within 5 days before each contest; and

(2)

Submit the results of the test to the Commission at the final physical.

Failure of a female contestant to comply with §C of this regulation shall result in the immediate disqualification of the female contestant for a contest.

Regulation .13 Blood Tests.Link Copy Citation

In compliance with the blood testing requirements of Business Regulation Article, §4-304.1, Annotated Code of Maryland, a blood sample from an individual desiring to participate in a boxing, kickboxing, or mixed martial arts contest shall be:

(1)

Taken by a physician, phlebotomist, or other qualified health care provider chosen by the individual; and

(2)

Analyzed by a medical laboratory, certified in accordance with the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act, 42 U.S.C. §263(a), for the presence of:

(a)

Antibodies to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and

(b)

The antigen of virus hepatitis B.

Only blood tests with negative results shall be submitted to the Commission.

The required negative blood tests:

(1)

Shall be submitted to the Commission by an applicant for licensure as a contestant, a contestant, or an authorized representative of the applicant or contestant; and

(2)

May not be submitted by the person taking the blood sample, the medical laboratory testing the blood sample, or any other person.

The required negative blood tests shall:

(1)

Have been performed within 30 days of the individual's application for a license; and

(2)

Except as provided in §E of this regulation, be submitted to the Commission:

(a)

At the time the application is submitted to the Commission, or

(b)

Not later than the weigh-in for the first contest in which the contestant is to participate following the submittal of the application.

The Commission, in its discretion, may extend the time for the submittal of the required negative blood tests to a time immediately before the contestant's first contest following the issuance of a license.

To constitute documentary evidence satisfactory to the Commission, the negative test results from the medical laboratory shall be:

(1)

On the medical laboratory's letterhead; and

(2)

Signed by an authorized representative of the medical laboratory.

In addition to submitting the required negative blood tests before a contestant's first contest following the submittal of an application for licensure, a contestant is required to submit the required negative blood tests if:

(1)

The contestant previously tested positive for the antibodies to HIV or the antigens of virus hepatitis B; or

(2)

The Commission has reasonable cause to believe that the testing of the contestant's blood may not result in a negative test for the presence of the antibodies to HIV or the antigens of virus hepatitis B.

Chapter 05. Boxing and Kickboxing Facilities and Equipment

Regulation .01 Boxing or Kickboxing Ring.Link Copy Citation

A boxing or kickboxing ring shall meet the following requirements:

(1)

The boxing or kickboxing ring may not be less than 16 feet square or more than 24 feet square within the ring ropes;

(2)

The platform shall extend beyond the ropes for a distance of at least 2 feet;

(3)

The ring posts shall be at least 18 inches away from the ring ropes;

(4)

The ring floor, both within and outside the ropes, shall be padded with a minimum of 1 inch thick unicellular safety foam;

(5)

The platform shall have a top covering of canvas, duck, or equivalent material tightly stretched and laced to the platform;

(6)

The platform shall be a maximum height of 4 feet above the floor of the building and shall be provided with suitable steps for use by the boxers; and

(7)

The mat and coverings shall be kept clean and free of odors at all times.

Ring posts shall meet the following requirements:

(1)

Constructed of metal with a maximum diameter of 3 inches;

(2)

Extend to the floor of the ring with a maximum height of 58 inches; and

(3)

Properly padded.

Ring ropes shall meet the following requirements:

(1)

Four in number with a minimum diameter of 1 inch;

(2)

The lower rope shall be 18 inches above the ring floor;

(3)

The top rope shall be 54 inches above the ring floor;

(4)

The remaining two ropes shall be evenly spaced between the lower and top ropes;

(5)

The ropes shall be covered with a smooth plastic or other smooth, soft material;

(6)

The ropes shall be adjustable and shall be kept at the correct tautness; and

(7)

The ring ropes shall be tied in the center of the ropes on all four sides.

Regulation .02 Ring Equipment.Link Copy Citation

The promoter shall provide all necessary equipment for use by seconds, boxers, and kickboxers at all events, subject to approval by the Commission.

A bell or gong shall be provided by the Commission and shall be positioned at the ring not higher than the floor level of the ring.

Regulation .03 Gloves.Link Copy Citation

General.

(1)

Gloves shall conform to specifications as determined by the Commission.

(2)

Gloves shall be examined before a contest by a Commission representative and the referee.

(3)

If the padding is misplaced or lumpy, or if the gloves are otherwise defective, the gloves shall be changed before the contest starts.

(4)

Breaking, roughing, or twisting of gloves is not permitted.

(5)

Glove weights shall be:

(a)

8 ounces for weight classifications less than 148 pounds; and

(b)

10 ounces for weight classifications 148 pounds or greater.

(6)

The laces shall be knotted on the back of the wrist and tape shall be applied where the laces are knotted.

(7)

The gloves shall be thumb-attached.

Reserved.

Gloves — Main Event.

(1)

The promoter shall furnish approved new gloves designed to fit the hands of the contestants in a main event contest.

(2)

The promoter shall deliver the gloves to the Commission at the time of the final physical for approval by the main event boxers.

(3)

Upon approval, the Commission shall keep the gloves until the time of the main event contest.

Gloves — Preliminaries.

(1)

Used gloves for preliminary contests shall be whole, clean, in sanitary condition, and subject to inspection by the referee or Commission representative.

(2)

Unfit gloves shall be immediately discarded and replaced with gloves approved by the referee or Commission representative.

Gloves — Extra Set.

(1)

All promoters shall have at each contest an extra set of 8-ounce gloves and 10-ounce gloves.

(2)

Extra gloves may be used if the set of gloves currently in use are broken or damaged during the course of a contest.

Regulation .04 Sanitation.Link Copy Citation

Promoters shall be responsible for any violation of Commission regulations or applicable local health department requirements concerning sanitary conditions of dressing rooms, showers, water bottles, towels, or other equipment.

Promoters shall provide at least one receptacle for medical waste, and properly dispose of the waste.

Promoters shall immediately correct any violation of the duties imposed by §A of this regulation.

Regulation .05 Round Cards.Link Copy Citation

The promoter shall provide a sufficient supply of round cards to designate the upcoming round.

These cards shall be white and numbered on each side from 1 to 12.

Cards shall be displayed to be visible to all spectators.

Chapter 06. Conduct of Boxing Contests

Regulation .01 Weights and Classes.Link Copy Citation

The Commission recognizes the following weights and classes:

(1)

Flyweight ----------------------112 pounds or less;

(2)

Bantamweight -------------- over 112 to 118 pounds;

(3)

Featherweight ----------------over 118 to 126 pounds;

(4)

Junior lightweight ------------over 126 to 130 pounds;

(5)

Lightweight -------------------over 130 to 135 pounds;

(6)

Junior welterweight ---------over 135 to 140 pounds;

(7)

Welterweight -----------------over 140 to 147 pounds;

(8)

Junior middleweight ------- over 147 to 154 pounds;

(9)

Middleweight -----------------over 154 to 160 pounds;

(10)

Junior light heavyweight - over 160 to 168 pounds;

(11)

Light heavyweight -------- over 168 to 175 pounds;

(12)

Cruiserweight ------------ over 175 to 190 pounds;

(13)

Heavyweight ------------------------- over 190 pounds.

If a boxer's weight is greater than the weight specified in the contract, the contest may not take place without special permission of the Commission.

A contest may not be allowed in which the weight difference between the boxers in the contest is greater than the following:

(1)

Flyweight -----------------------------3 pounds;

(2)

Bantamweight ------------------------4 pounds;

(3)

Featherweight -------------------------5 pounds;

(4)

Junior lightweight --------------------6 pounds;

(5)

Lightweight ---------------------------7 pounds;

(6)

Junior welterweight ------------------8 pounds;

(7)

Welterweight -------------------------10 pounds;

(8)

Junior middleweight -----------------11 pounds;

(9)

Middleweight -------------------------12 pounds;

(10)

Junior light heavyweight ----------13 pounds;

(11)

Light heavyweight -----------------15 pounds;

(12)

Cruiserweight -----------------------15 pounds;

(13)

Heavyweight -------------------------No limit.

Weighing In.

(1)

Weighing of boxers for events shall take place not later than 12 noon on the day of the contest.

(2)

The boxer's weight shall be determined by a member of the Commission in the presence of the matchmaker, promoter, or manager of the boxers scheduled in a contest.

(3)

Opponents shall be weighed in the presence of each other.

(4)

A boxer shall be weighed wearing not more than trunks and socks.

(5)

Members of the press may be permitted to attend the weighing in.

(6)

Scales used for the weighing in shall be approved annually by the Division of Weights and Measures.

Regulation .02 Scheduling of a Main Event Contest.Link Copy Citation

A main event contest shall begin not later than 10 p.m.

The Commission may grant special permission to begin a main event contest later than permitted by §A of this regulation.

Regulation .03 Substitute Contestants.Link Copy Citation

Substitute contestants may not engage in a contest unless approved by the Commission.

The Commission may approve a substitute contestant not later than 12 noon on the date of the contest if the substitute contestant:

(1)

Passes the final physical; and

(2)

Meets the requirements of COMAR 09.14.03.02 and COMAR 09.14.04.

The requirements of this regulation shall be in addition to COMAR 09.14.03.03D.

Regulation .04 Boxer's Appearance.Link Copy Citation

The Commission or its representative shall inspect each boxer to determine if facial hair or length of hair presents a potential hazard to the boxer, the boxer's opponent, or the referee's ability to supervise the match.

A boxer may not use excessive amounts of grease, any substance that constitutes an irritant, or any other foreign substance not allowed in a boxer's corner as described in COMAR 09.14.04.06B.

A boxer in violation of §A or B of this regulation may be ordered by the referee or a Commission representative to alter or remove any substances.

Managers shall be responsible to insure compliance with the provisions of this regulation.

Regulation .05 Boxer's Equipment.Link Copy Citation

A boxer's equipment shall be firmly adjusted before entering the ring.

The belt of the trunks may not extend above the waistline.

Boxers may not enter the ring with trunks of the same color.

A boxer may not wear any apparel not provided for in these regulations.

Bandage.

(1)

In all classes up to and including middleweights, bandages on the hands of a boxer shall be restricted to soft cloth not more than 10 yards in length and 2 inches in width that is held in place by not more than 4 feet of surgeon's tape for each hand.

(2)

In all other classes of boxer, bandages on the hands of a boxer shall meet the following requirements:

(a)

Not more than 12 yards in length and 2 inches in width that is held in place by not more than 8 feet of surgeon's tape for each hand shall be allowed; and

(b)

Not more than 6 inches of adhesive tape that is not more than 1 inch in width applied across the back of each hand after bandaging shall be allowed, provided that the tape is not put across the knuckles.

(3)

Bandages shall be adjusted in the dressing room in the presence of a Commission representative and both boxers.

Shoes.

(1)

Shoes shall be of soft material.

(2)

Shoes may not be fitted with spikes, cleats, hard soles, or hard heels.

Regulation .06 Boxers' Report Time.Link Copy Citation

Boxers shall report to the Commission representative in charge of the dressing rooms at least 2 hours before the scheduled starting time of the first contest.

Regulation .07 Fouls.Link Copy Citation

A boxer who flagrantly or repeatedly commits a foul may be:

(1)

Disqualified in a contest by the referee; and

(2)

Subject to disciplinary action under COMAR 09.14.02.07.

A foul includes:

(1)

Hitting below the belt;

(2)

Hitting an opponent who is down or getting up after being down;

(3)

Holding;

(4)

Wrestling or kicking;

(5)

Striking an opponent who is helpless as a result of blows and supported by the ropes so that the opponent does not fall;

(6)

Butting with the head or shoulder or using the knee;

(7)

Hitting with the open glove, or with the butt of the hand, the wrist, or the elbow, and all backhand blows;

(8)

Going down without being hit;

(9)

Striking at that part of the body over the kidney;

(10)

The rabbit punch;

(11)

Jabbing the opponent's eye with the thumb of the glove;

(12)

Using abusive language in the ring;

(13)

Using an unsportsmanlike trick or action causing injury to an opponent;

(14)

Hitting on the break;

(15)

Hitting after the bell has sounded ending the round;

(16)

Roughing at the ropes;

(17)

Pushing an opponent about the ring or into the ropes; and

(18)

Biting.

Regulation .08 Accidental Foul.Link Copy Citation

If an accidental foul occurs and the injured boxer is unable to continue:

(1)

The contest shall be declared a technical draw if the accidental foul occurs before the completion of half of the scheduled rounds; and

(2)

A technical decision shall be awarded to the boxer who is ahead on points if the accidental foul occurs after the completion of half of the scheduled rounds.

If an accidental foul occurs and the injured boxer is able to continue, the referee shall notify both corners, the judges, and the Commission table of the accidental foul not later than the end of the round in which the accidental foul took place.

If the injury to the boxer resulting from an accidental foul worsens, causing the injured boxer to be unable to continue:

(1)

The contest shall be declared a technical draw if the bout is stopped before the completion of half of the scheduled rounds; and

(2)

A technical decision shall be awarded to the boxer who is ahead on points if the bout is stopped after the completion of half of the scheduled rounds.

Under §§A(2) and C(2) of this regulation, only completed rounds shall be scored.

If a majority cannot be established under §§A(2) and C(2) of this regulation, the contest shall be declared a technical draw.

Regulation .09 Assessment of Penalty Points.Link Copy Citation

A referee may, in the referee's discretion, penalize a boxer who fouls an opponent during a contest by charging the boxer with the loss of points for an intentional or unintentional foul.

A referee shall assess the penalty points after the occurrence of each foul based on the severity of the foul and the effect of the foul on the boxer's opponent.

The referee shall:

(1)

Indicate on the official scorecard the number of points deducted from a boxer in any round a boxer is penalized; and

(2)

Notify the judges and both boxers of the number of points to be deducted at the conclusion of each round.

Points may only be deducted for fouls that occur in the round for which points are assessed.

Regulation .10 Low-Blow Foul.Link Copy Citation

A contest may not be awarded by reason of a low-blow foul.

A boxer suffering a low-blow foul shall be given a rest period not exceeding 5 minutes.

If, after being granted a rest period under §B, of this regulation, the boxer is incapable of continuing, the senior physician shall examine the boxer.

If the senior physician determines that the boxer cannot continue, the contest shall be ruled a no contest.

Regulation .11 Knockdown.Link Copy Citation

A boxer shall be considered to have suffered a knockdown if a:

(1)

Part of the body other than the feet is on the ring floor;

(2)

Boxer is hanging helplessly over the ropes;

(3)

Boxer is rising from a down position; or

(4)

Boxer is knocked through the ropes.

A boxer may only suffer a knockdown by a punch.

The following procedures shall apply to a knockdown count:

(1)

The referee shall order the opponent to retire to the farthest corner of the ring by pointing to the corner and immediately begin the count over the boxer who is down;

(2)

The referee shall audibly announce the passing of the seconds by accompanying the count with motions of the arm with the downward motion indicating the end of each second;

(3)

A boxer who has suffered a knockdown may not resume boxing until the referee has finished a mandatory eight count;

(4)

A boxer may take the count either on the floor or standing;

(5)

The knockdown timekeeper, by effective signaling, shall give the referee the correct 1-second interval for the count; and

(6)

The referee's count shall be the official count.

The following events may interrupt a knockdown count:

(1)

If the boxer's opponent fails to stay in the farthest corner, the count may not continue until the opponent has returned to the proper corner;

(2)

If the boxer suffering the knockdown count rises during the count, the referee may stop the count to determine if the boxer is fit to continue; or

(3)

If the referee determines that the boxer can continue, the referee shall cease the count and order both boxers to continue the contest.

A boxer not rising from a knockdown before the count of ten shall be declared knocked out by the referee's waving both arms, and the boxer's opponent shall be declared the winner of the contest.

If both boxers suffer a knockdown, the referee shall continue the knockdown count as long as one boxer remains in the condition described in §A of this regulation.

If neither boxer in §F of this regulation is able to rise before the count of ten, the contest shall be declared to be a technical draw.

The following procedures shall apply for all rounds in a contest:

(1)

A referee's knockdown count may not be interrupted by the conclusion of the round; and

(2)

If the referee's knockdown count extends beyond the conclusion of the round, but the boxer suffering the knockdown rises before the count of ten and the referee determines that the boxer can continue, the referee shall give the command to box and the gong shall then be rung immediately to end the round.

A boxer who suffers a knockdown and fails to rise before the count of ten shall be considered to have been knocked out in the round in which the boxer suffered the ten-count knockdown.

If a boxer rises after suffering a knockdown and immediately assumes a position described in §A of this regulation, without being struck, the referee shall resume the count from when it was interrupted.

Regulation .12 Termination of a Contest.Link Copy Citation

A referee may terminate a contest if the referee determines, in his discretion, that a boxer is unable to continue the contest.

The senior physician may terminate a contest at any time if, in the physician's opinion, the health of either boxer is in serious jeopardy.

A boxer giving up a contest during a rest period between rounds shall be determined to lose the contest by a technical knockout in the preceding round.

A boxer failing to respond to the gong signaling the beginning of a new round shall be considered to have suffered a technical knockout in the round begun by the gong.

Regulation .13 Judging and Scoring.Link Copy Citation

Judges shall score all contests and determine the winner through the use of the “ten-point must system”.

The “ten-point must system” shall be applied as follows:

(1)

The winner of each round receives ten points and the opponent a proportionately less number;

(2)

If a round is even, each boxer shall receive ten points; and

(3)

Fractions of points may not be awarded.

The awarding of a round or the match shall be based on the following factors to be scored in the order listed:

(1)

Knockdown;

(2)

Clean hits;

(3)

Effective aggressiveness;

(4)

Defense;

(5)

Ring generalship; and

(6)

Other relevant considerations.

In addition to the factors in §C of this regulation, a boxer may be given credit for the following:

(1)

Sportsmanlike actions in the ring;

(2)

Close adherence to the spirit as well as the letter of the regulations; and

(3)

Refraining from taking technical advantage of situations unfair to an opponent.

Deductions of points may result from the following:

(1)

Persistent delays of a boxer by clinching; and

(2)

Lack of aggressiveness.

The following guidelines shall govern the awarding of points and the decision:

(1)

Each knockdown shall have a value of one point;

(2)

Points for each round shall be awarded immediately after the termination of the round;

(3)

Each judge shall:

(a)

Award the decision to the boxer who has the highest point total at the end of the contest, and

(b)

Write the decision on the scorecard;

(4)

The announcer shall collect the scorecards from the judges and deliver the scorecards to the Commission's representative for review;

(5)

The Commission's representative shall advise the announcer of the decision who shall, in turn, announce the decision to the audience;

(6)

A boxer receiving the decision from a majority of the judges shall be declared the winner of the contest; and

(7)

If neither boxer is granted the decision by a majority of the judges, the contest shall be declared to be a draw.

Regulation .14 Seconds.Link Copy Citation

Chief Second.

(1)

Before starting a contest, the referee shall ascertain from each boxer the name of the chief second.

(2)

The chief second shall be responsible for the conduct of the assistant seconds during the progress of the contest.

Number of Seconds. Each boxer may have at least one and not more than three seconds.

The following guidelines shall control the conduct of seconds:

(1)

Seconds shall conduct themselves in a sportsmanlike manner throughout the contest;

(2)

Seconds shall remain seated during a round and may not assist a boxer in any manner during the round;

(3)

Seconds may not enter the ring until the timekeeper signals the conclusion of the round;

(4)

Seconds are prohibited from spraying or throwing water on a boxer at any time;

(5)

Seconds shall leave the ring enclosure upon the appropriate signal sounding 10 seconds before the beginning of each round; and

(6)

Seconds shall leave the ring platform promptly, removing all obstructions such as buckets and stools, when the gong signals the beginning of each round.

Violations by Seconds.

(1)

Violations of §C of this regulation, shall result in the ejection of a second from the boxer's corner.

(2)

Violations of §C of this regulation, may result in the disqualification of a boxer at the referee's discretion.

Regulation .15 Referee's Instructions.Link Copy Citation

The referee shall call the boxers together for final instructions before the beginning of each contest.

At the instructions, a boxer may only be accompanied by the boxer's manager or chief second.

Before the instructions, the referee shall inspect the gloves and bodies of each boxer for foreign substances.

Regulation .16 Rounds.Link Copy Citation

A round shall consist of 3 minutes separated by a 1-minute rest period.

A contest may not exceed 12 rounds.

Unless special permission has been granted by the Commission, a promoter may not schedule less than five matches in any one event and shall schedule:

(1)

A minimum of 26 rounds of boxing; or

(2)

A maximum of 40 rounds of boxing.

Except as provided in this regulation, exhibition bouts may not be used to meet the requirements of §C of this regulation.

The Commission may grant a promoter permission to hold a pro-am boxing event, encompassing both professional contests and amateur contests, if:

(1)

The event includes a minimum of three professional matches, one of which consists of eight rounds or more;

(2)

The event includes a minimum of 20 rounds of professional boxing;

(3)

The event includes a minimum of eight rounds of amateur boxing;

(4)

The amateur contests all precede the professional contests, with the professional contests and amateur contests being separated by a 15-minute intermission; and

(5)

The promoter indicates on event tickets, as well as in advertisements pertaining to the event, that the event is a pro-am boxing event including both professional contests and amateur contests.

Regulation .17 Public Access to Dressing Room.Link Copy Citation

The public may not be allowed into the dressing room of a boxer.

Only the following persons may be allowed into the dressing room of a boxer:

(1)

The boxer;

(2)

The boxer's manager;

(3)

The boxer's seconds; and

(4)

The Commission's representative.

Regulation .18 Reserve Boxers.Link Copy Citation

A promoter may contract for extra contests in reserve for each event.

Reserve boxers shall meet all requirements for substitute contestants as specified in COMAR 09.14.04.

An extra contest may only be used if a scheduled contest is cancelled.

Chapter 07. Ring Officials

Regulation .01 Authority of Commission.Link Copy Citation

The Commission shall determine the qualifications of all ring officials.

The Commission shall control and direct the activities of the following individuals:

(1)

Referee;

(2)

Timekeepers;

(3)

Physicians;

(4)

Announcer;

(5)

Ring inspectors;

(6)

Judges; and

(7)

Scorekeeper.

Regulation .02 Assignments of Officials.Link Copy Citation

The Commission shall assign all officials in a boxing, kickboxing, or mixed martial arts contest.

The following persons shall be assigned as officials for each boxing, kickboxing, or mixed martial arts contest:

(1)

One referee;

(2)

Three judges;

(3)

One timekeeper;

(4)

One announcer;

(5)

At least two physicians;

(6)

Inspectors; and

(7)

Scorekeeper.

Regulation .03 Referee.Link Copy Citation

General. The referee shall have the authority to:

(1)

Supervise, generally, a boxing, kickboxing, or mixed martial arts contest;

(2)

Decide all matters arising during a boxing, kickboxing, or mixed martial arts contest that are not specified in these regulations.

Referee's Authority.

(1)

The referee may stop a boxing, kickboxing, or mixed martial arts contest during or between rounds for any of the following reasons:

(a)

Injury to a contestant;

(b)

Poor physical conditioning of a contestant;

(c)

Disqualification of a contestant for not participating in earnest; or

(d)

Unsafe ring or fenced area conditions.

(2)

The referee shall give a contestant sufficient time to recuperate when the contestant is incapacitated by a low blow or other fouling tactic.

Referee's Duties.

(1)

A referee may touch a contestant only if the contestant fails to obey a command to break.

(2)

In addition to the knockdown procedure described in COMAR 09.14.06.11, the referee shall:

(a)

Begin a knockdown count for any contestant who leaves the ring or fenced area during the 1-minute rest period between rounds and does not resume participation when the bell signals the beginning of a round;

(b)

Begin a knockdown count for any contestant who is knocked out or falls out of the ring or fenced area during a round and fails to return immediately to the ring or fenced area; and

(c)

Remove the mouthpiece of a contestant after the knockdown count.

(3)

A referee shall warn a contestant and the contestant's manager or chief second in a clear and distinct manner that persistent fouling will result in a penalty before a referee assesses a penalty point.

Medical Standards for Referees.

(1)

A referee annually shall submit to the Commission certification of the following medical examinations:

(a)

A comprehensive physical;

(b)

An ophthalmological evaluation as defined in COMAR 09.14.04.02A; and

(c)

A neurological test as defined in COMAR 09.14.04.03A which is performed by a neurologist or neurosurgeon.

(2)

The Senior Physician shall determine the appropriate medical documentation for nonresident applicant referees.

(3)

A referee may not officiate in a contest if any of the following physical conditions are found:

(a)

Conditions specified in COMAR 09.14.04.04B(1)—(8) and (10)—(11);

(b)

Uncorrected visual acuity that is less than 20/40;

(c)

Peripheral vision that is less than 100 percent; or

(d)

Abnormalities suggestive of acute, subacute, or chronic nervous system abnormalities.

Regulation .04 Physicians.Link Copy Citation

Senior Physician. The senior physician is responsible for the health and safety of all participants during a contest and shall have the authority specified in COMAR 09.14.04.05.

Ringside Physician. The examining physician shall exercise the duties specified in COMAR 09.14.04.05 including:

(1)

The pre-fight examination;

(2)

Examining contestants at the request of the referee; and

(3)

The post-fight examination.

Regulation .05 Judges.Link Copy Citation

The judges appointed by the Commission shall be stationed in locations designated by the Commission.

Judges may bring any matter to the attention of the referee at the end of a round.

Judges shall render their scoring at the conclusion of each round.

A judge annually shall submit to the Commission the results of an ophthalmological evaluation as defined in COMAR 09.14.04.02A.

An individual may not judge a contest if the individual's corrected vision is less than 20/40.

The Senior Physician shall determine the appropriate medical documentation for nonresident applicant judges.

Regulation .06 Timekeepers.Link Copy Citation

The timekeeper shall:

Be provided with a whistle and accurate stopwatch;

Be seated outside the ring, or fenced area, close to the bell and shall indicate the beginning and ending of each round by striking the bell with a metal hammer;

Give an appropriate signal to the contestants' seconds 10 seconds before the beginning of each round;

Inform the announcer of the exact duration of a contest that is terminated before the completion of the scheduled number of rounds;

Keep the time for a contestant suffering a knockdown; and

After a knockdown, rise and start counting with the stopwatch until the count of ten is reached.

Regulation .07 Announcer.Link Copy Citation

The announcer shall state the following:

(1)

The name of the contestants;

(2)

The correct weight of the contestants; and

(3)

The decision of the referee and judges.

The announcer may announce other matters as directed by the Commission.

Regulation .08 Inspectors.Link Copy Citation

The Commission shall assign ringside inspectors to the corners, and may also assign inspectors to dressing rooms or any other part of the arena to ensure compliance with the regulations.

Inspectors shall remain in their assigned positions until relieved by the supervisor of the contests.

Chapter 08. Wrestling Regulations

Regulation .01 Applicability.Link Copy Citation

These regulations apply to persons conducting wrestling matches, including persons licensed by the Commission in the following capacities:

(1)

Wrestlers;

(2)

Managers;

(3)

Promoters; and

(4)

Matchmakers.

Persons described in §A of this regulation, shall also be subject to all other appropriate regulations of the Commission.

Regulation .02 Contestants and Substitutions.Link Copy Citation

The promoter shall provide the Commission with a list of wrestlers scheduled to appear in a contest at least 21 days before the date of the wrestling contest.

Substitutions shall receive prior approval of the Commission.

A main event substitution shall be reported immediately to the Commission with an accompanying explanation for the substitution.

The wrestling card shall specify the number of falls required for each contest.

Regulation .03 Conduct of Wrestling Contest.Link Copy Citation

A wrestling contest shall be determined by:

(1)

One fall; or

(2)

Two out of three falls.

A one-fall contest shall be determined as follows:

(1)

The wrestler scoring a fall within the time limit shall be declared the winner of the contest; or

(2)

If neither wrestler scores a fall within the time limit, the referee shall:

(a)

Award the decision to one of the contestants, or

(b)

Call the contest a draw.

A two-fall contest shall be determined as follows:

(1)

The wrestler scoring two falls within the time limit shall be declared the winner of the contest;

(2)

If only one fall is scored within the time limit, the wrestler scoring the one fall shall be declared the winner of the contest; or

(3)

If no wrestler has scored a fall or if both wrestlers have each scored one fall, the referee shall:

(a)

Award the decision to one of the contestants, or

(b)

Call the contest a draw.

Scoring a Fall.

(1)

A fall is scored by a wrestler when the wrestler's opponent has both shoulders touching the mat for a count of three.

(2)

The referee shall signal the wrestler scoring a fall by immediately slapping the wrestler's back or shoulder.

Time Limits.

(1)

A wrestler shall be allowed 5 minutes between falls in a contest that provides for two out of three falls.

(2)

A wrestling match shall have a maximum time limit of 60 minutes.

(3)

The Commission may authorize any other time limit.

Prohibited Activities.

(1)

The following actions are prohibited:

(a)

Striking an opponent with a fist or using the knuckles;

(b)

Scratching or gouging the opponent;

(c)

Butting the opponent;

(d)

Slamming an opponent into a ring post;

(e)

Striking an opponent with a foreign object;

(f)

Kicking an opponent unless a recognized wrestling move;

(g)

Stranglehold;

(h)

Pulling hair;

(i)

Inhibiting breathing by covering the nose and mouth at the same time;

(j)

Jumping from the ring ropes onto an opponent;

(k)

Deliberately leaving the ring enclosure during a contest;

(l)

Unsportsmanlike or physically dangerous conduct; and

(m)

Deliberately lacerating oneself or one's opponent, or, by any other means, introducing human or animal blood into the ring.

(2)

A wrestler continuing to engage in prohibited activities after sufficient warning may be disqualified by the referee.

Breaking. A wrestler:

(1)

Shall break a hold when instructed by the referee;

(2)

Failing to break upon instruction shall be given a count of four to release the hold;

(3)

Failing to release the hold after the count of four shall be disqualified and the opponent shall be awarded the match by the referee.

Wrestlers Out of the Ring.

(1)

If a wrestler is out of the ring during the contest, the opponent shall immediately retire to the opposite side of the ring and remain until the wrestler has returned within the ring and the referee has instructed them to begin wrestling.

(2)

If a wrestler leaves the ring and remains on the ring apron, the referee and timekeeper shall begin a count of ten.

(3)

A wrestler failing to return to the ring under §H(2) by the count of ten shall lose the match to the wrestler's opponent if the opponent is in the ring before the count of ten is concluded.

(4)

If both wrestlers leave the ring and remain on the ring apron through a count of ten, then the contest shall be ended with no winner declared.

(5)

If a wrestler leaves the ring and is on the floor outside of the ring, the referee and timekeeper shall begin a count of 20.

(6)

A wrestler failing to return to the ring under §H(5) by the count of 20 shall lose the match to the wrestler's opponent if the opponent is in the ring before the count of 20 is concluded.

(7)

If both wrestlers leave the ring and remain on the floor outside of the ring through a count of 20, then the contest shall be ended with no winner declared.

Refusal or Inability to Continue. If a wrestler refuses or is physically unable to continue a match, the match shall be ended and the decision awarded to the wrestler's opponent.

A wrestler may not touch or otherwise interfere with the referee.

Tag Team Wrestling.

(1)

“Tag team wrestling” means a contest between two teams each composed of two or more wrestlers.

(2)

The time limit for this type of contest shall be 60 minutes.

(3)

A team shall be awarded a fall when a member of the team scores a fall against a member of the opposing team.

(4)

A 2-minute rest period shall be permitted between falls.

(5)

A tag team contest shall be conducted as follows:

(a)

The contest shall begin with one wrestler from each team inside the ring while the respective partners remain outside the ring on the apron;

(b)

The wrestler outside the ring may not enter the ring unless a fall is scored or his partner has tagged his hand;

(c)

In order to be eligible to receive a tag, the wrestler's partner shall be outside the ring on the apron in the proper corner with both feet on the ring apron and only receive the tag over the top ring rope;

(d)

When the tag is made, the wrestler making the tag shall leave the ring as the partner enters the ring;

(e)

Only two wrestlers from opposing teams shall be permitted to be in the ring at any one time;

(f)

After the scoring of a fall a wrestler may relieve the partner;

(g)

If a wrestler is unable to continue, the wrestler's partner shall continue the contest alone;

(h)

The referee may call time after an injury to permit the injured wrestler to be removed from the ring; and

(i)

The decision in the match shall be governed under the guidelines in Regulation .03.

(6)

In addition to the prohibited activities in §F, a wrestler may not:

(a)

Assist the partner or interfere in any manner with the opponents while outside the ring enclosure; or

(b)

Release the rope provided in the team corner until officially tagged by the partner.

(7)

The referee shall warn a team of any prohibited conduct and may disqualify a team for persisting in prohibited conduct after a warning.

Timekeeping. A timekeeper:

(1)

Appointed by the Commission shall time all wrestling contests;

(2)

Shall begin the beginning of the time limit of a contest upon the referee's signal and shall sound the gong at the referee's command.

Reporting Time.

(1)

Wrestlers shall appear at least 1 hour before the scheduled contest begins.

(2)

Failure to comply with §M(1) shall be cause for disciplinary action.

Time of Contest.

(1)

Wrestling contests shall begin not later than 8:30 p.m. and conclude before 11 p.m.

(2)

The Commission may authorize different starting and concluding times.

Seconds.

(1)

A wrestler may have a second who:

(a)

Shall remain in the wrestler's corner outside the ring enclosure; and

(b)

May not interfere in any manner with the progress of the contest.

(2)

The referee may immediately eject from the ring area any second failing to comply with §O(1).

Referee.

(1)

The referee shall have the authority to conduct the contest and enforce the regulations of the Commission.

(2)

The referee's decision on any matter, whether arising under these regulations or not, shall be final.

(3)

Referees assigned to officiate a contest shall:

(a)

Be properly attired 30 minutes before the scheduled time of the opening contest; and

(b)

Remain attired and available until all matches have been concluded.

Wrestler's Equipment.

(1)

A wrestler shall be clothed in clean apparel with trunks and tights that are well-fitted and whole.

(2)

Two pairs of trunks, one over the other, may be worn.

(3)

If a wrestler wears shoes, they shall be fitted with soft tops, soft smooth soles, soft laces, and equipped with eyelets only.

(4)

A wrestler may not have any grease, lotion, or foreign substances on the body.

Ring.

(1)

The ring shall have a minimum of three ropes with the:

(a)

Lower rope 18 inches above the ring floor;

(b)

Upper rope 52 inches above the ring floor; and

(c)

Middle rope equidistant between the lower and upper ropes.

(2)

Except as provided in §R(1), the ring shall meet the same requirements set forth in COMAR 09.14.05.01.

Ring Barrier.

(1)

A ring shall be enclosed within a barrier which shall be erected between the ring and the seating area in the arena.

(2)

The barrier shall be at least:

(a)

6 feet away from the ring; and

(b)

4 feet away from the first row of the seating area.

(3)

The ring barrier shall conform to the following requirements:

(a)

Be constructed of metal or other shatterproof material;

(b)

Be designed to prevent wrestlers from exiting through the barrier into the seating area during a contest;

(c)

Be built to a height of at least 42 inches from the floor of the arena; and

(d)

Be stable.

(4)

The ring barrier shall be approved by the Commission or the Commission's representative before its use during a contest.

“Ring enclosure” means the area within the ring barrier.

Contests between a male and a female wrestler are prohibited, unless special permission is granted by the Commission after a review of the wrestlers' experience and physical fitness.

Regulation .04 Physical Examinations.Link Copy Citation

A wrestler shall be given a physical by a physician approved by the Commission before engaging in a contest.

A referee shall be given a physical before officiating a contest.

An inspector may permit a wrestler not examined under §A of this regulation, to engage in a contest if the wrestler has been examined by a licensed physician within 15 days of the scheduled contest.

A wrestler shall submit, on a form provided by the Commission, the results of a physical examination performed within 21 days of the application for a license.

The examining physician may disqualify a contestant or referee for:

(1)

Blood pressure elevation, systolic pressure or diastolic pressure outside of acceptable limits as determined by the examining physician;

(2)

An unhealed fracture or dislocation requiring splinting or casting; or

(3)

Any other medical condition that, in the physician's opinion, renders the contestant unfit to compete, or a referee to officiate a contest.

The ringside physician may remain at the contest after completing the physical examinations.

Regulation .05 Records.Link Copy Citation

Licensees shall maintain true and accurate books of accounts showing receipts and distributions of funds in connection with a wrestling contest.

The records required under §A of this regulation shall be made available upon request of the Commission's representative for inspection and audit.

Regulation .06 Responsibility of Promoter.Link Copy Citation

A promoter shall be responsible to the Commission for the conduct of its representatives and employees.

The promoter shall be responsible for conducting wrestling contests in a safe, peaceable, and orderly fashion.

Violation of the Commission's regulations by a representative or employee of the promoter may be grounds for disciplinary action against the promoter.

Regulation .07 Insurance Coverage.Link Copy Citation

Each contestant shall be insured through a group insurance policy provided by the Commission as follows:

(1)

Minimum medical expense coverage of $5,000; and

(2)

Minimum coverage for death, dismemberment, or loss of sight of $5,000.

The terms and conditions of the coverage in §A of this regulation shall be governed by the insurance policy between the Commission and its insurance carrier.

Nothing in this regulation shall preclude a promoter from providing coverage in excess of the coverage stated in §A of this regulation.

If the promoter provides insurance coverage, a copy of the policy shall:

(1)

Be given to the Commission not later than the final physical; and

(2)

List the Commission as an additional insured.

Chapter 09. Control and Taxing of Tickets

Regulation .01 Approval by Commission.Link Copy Citation

Tickets may only be sold to contests approved by the Commission.

Tickets may not be sold for a contest before the Commission has issued a sanction for the contest.

Regulation .02 Printing of Tickets.Link Copy Citation

Each ticket shall bear the following information:

(1)

The price;

(2)

The name of the club or promoter; and

(3)

The date and location of the contest.

The number of tickets printed may not exceed the actual seating capacity of the arena where the event is being held.

Tickets for different prices may be printed on a paper stock of different colors.

Each ticket in each ticket category shall bear a serial or seat location number.

Regulation .03 Ticket Manifest.Link Copy Citation

The promoter shall immediately provide to the Commission a notarized manifest from the printer of the tickets.

The manifest shall list the total number of tickets printed and number of tickets in each price category.

Regulation .04 Reduced Price Tickets.Link Copy Citation

Tickets sold for less than the printed price shall be plainly overstamped with the actual price charged on the printed face of the ticket, including the stub that is retained by the ticket holder.

Regulation .05 Complimentary Tickets.Link Copy Citation

The total number of complimentary tickets, excluding press tickets, shall be:

(1)

Not more than 100 for professional boxing, kickboxing, and mixed martial arts events in venues with under 3,000 total seats;

(2)

Not more than 300 for professional boxing, kickboxing, and mixed martial arts events in venues with 3,000 total seats or more;

(3)

Not more than 100 for professional wrestling events in venues with under 3,000 total seats; and

(4)

Unlimited for professional wrestling events in venues with 3,000 seats or more.

Complimentary tickets shall be stamped “complimentary” or punched.

Regulation .06 Press Passes.Link Copy Citation

Members of the press assigned to report on a contest by their employers shall be issued a pass to attend a contest.

Members of the press shall be issued credentials that clearly designate them as working press.

Regulation .07 Commission Tickets.Link Copy Citation

Two opposing rows of ringside seats designated as Commission rows shall be reserved for use by the Commission at each contest.

The tickets in §A of this regulation shall be stamped with the word “Commission” or punched.

Regulation .08 Commission Employee Passes.Link Copy Citation

Employees of the Commission who are assigned to work at an event shall be issued identification badges.

The Commission shall provide a list of employees who are assigned to work at a particular contest.

Only those employees who are listed and present their identification at the pass gate shall be admitted without a ticket.

Regulation .09 Refunds.Link Copy Citation

The promoter shall issue a refund to a purchaser, upon request of the purchaser, if the advertised main event or specially added attraction does not take place at the time and date shown on the ticket.

If any of the contestants featured in the main event or specially added attraction are not present in the arena or are determined to be unable to participate in the event at the time immediately preceding the first contest, the promoter shall promptly inform the Commission.

The Commission's senior official shall instruct the announcer to announce the absence and inform the audience of its right to receive a refund as provided for in §D of this regulation.

Refunds may not be granted more than 1 hour after the refund announcement is made.

Regulation .10 Accounting for Tickets.Link Copy Citation

Representatives of the promoters, ticket agent, and Commission shall meet after the ticket windows have closed to account for all tickets sold for the contest.

The promoter and ticket agent shall then submit to the Commission representative a financial report on a form provided by the Commission indicating:

(1)

The amount of tax; and

(2)

Other charges due as specified by the Commission.

The promoter shall submit a check in the amount due to the Commission within 72 hours after the contest.

Chapter 10. Prohibited Practices

Regulation .01 Interest in Club.Link Copy Citation

Officers or stockholders of any club, corporation, or association, interested in the promoting of contests under these regulations may not officiate in any capacity at contests sponsored by the organization.

An individual may not have an interest as stockholder or otherwise in more than one club.

Regulation .02 Payment for Service.Link Copy Citation

A contestant may not be paid for services until the contestant has complied with COMAR 09.14.13.03.

Regulation .03 Unruly Conduct and Betting.Link Copy Citation

Words or conduct that may incite individuals to disturb the peace shall be prohibited and shall be reported to the appropriate law enforcement agencies.

Betting, gambling, or wagering in any form is prohibited and shall be reported to any law enforcement agency.

The Commission shall consider the conduct under §§A and B of this regulation in determining whether to sanction future events for an applicant or licensee.

Regulation .04 Unsanctioned Contests.Link Copy Citation

A licensee may not compete in or be associated with any contest held in this State that has not been sanctioned by the Commission.

Violation of §A of this regulation may result in disciplinary action against any licensees connected with the contest.

Regulation .05 Misrepresentation.Link Copy Citation

An applicant or licensee may not misrepresent information or otherwise mislead the Commission concerning the applicant's or licensee's medical or personal history which is required to be furnished to the Commission.

An applicant or licensee who knowingly misleads the Commission will be subject to disciplinary action by the Commission.

Regulation .06 Interference with a Commission Official.Link Copy Citation

A licensee may not interfere with a Commission official in the performance of the official's duties.

Regulation .06-1 Publishing, Announcing, or Advertising a Contestant's Record.Link Copy Citation

A person may not publish or advertise a contestant's record other than the official record.

Regulation .07 Disciplinary Action.Link Copy Citation

An applicant or licensee shall be subject to disciplinary action by the Commission for negligently, willfully, or knowingly violating the provisions of this chapter.

Chapter 11. Hearing Regulations

Repealed

Chapter 12. Amateur Boxing Regulations

Regulation .01 Applicability.Link Copy Citation

These regulations apply to persons participating in an amateur boxing event in the following capacities:

(1)

Boxers;

(2)

Coaches;

(3)

Officials;

(4)

Physicians;

(5)

Seconds;

(6)

Referees;

(7)

Judges.

Persons described in §A of this regulation shall also be subject to all other appropriate regulations of the Commission.

These regulations do not apply to the following:

(1)

Intercollegiate boxing held or given on the campus of or under the auspices of any college or university within this State;

(2)

Interscholastic boxing held or given on the campus of any high school within this State.

Regulation .02 Administration.Link Copy Citation

Amateur boxing events of any kind, when athletes compete in amateur boxing, shall be approved by the local boxing committee of the United States of America Amateur Boxing Federation, Inc.

Each local boxing committee which conducts amateur boxing within Maryland shall meet the following requirements:

(1)

Submit promoter and matchmaker license applications to the Commission annually;

(2)

Submit a bond in the amount of $2,000 to cover expenses incurred by the amateur boxing events to the Commission annually;

(3)

Submit a list of boxers, judges, referees, and other officials registered with the United States of America Amateur Boxing Federation, Inc. local boxing committee on a regular basis;

(4)

Advise the Commission as to when amateur boxing events are to take place.

Organizers and participants of amateur boxing events sanctioned by the United States of America Amateur Boxing Federation, Inc. or its local boxing committee may not be required to pay any license fees.

Regulation .03 Technical Rules.Link Copy Citation

Amateur boxing shall be governed by the "1985-86 Official Rules — USA Amateur Boxing Federation", which is incorporated by reference.

Chapter 13. Prohibited Substances

Regulation .01 Definition.Link Copy Citation

In this chapter, the following term has the meaning indicated.

Term Defined. “Prohibited substance” means any controlled dangerous substance listed in Criminal Law Article, §5-101, Annotated Code of Maryland.

Regulation .02 Urine Test Required.Link Copy Citation

A contestant who signs a contract to participate in a contest sanctioned by the State Athletic Commission shall submit to a urine test.

Regulation .03 Urine Specimen Collection Procedures.Link Copy Citation

The Commission shall designate an inspector and observer who shall be responsible for the collection of the urine sample from each contestant.

The contestant shall report to the designated inspector at a time and location designated by the Commission.

The contestant shall designate an individual to act as the contestant's witness to monitor the urine sampling procedure.

The inspector shall log the time the contestant reports to the testing area and shall, upon request, explain to the contestant instructions of the contestant's rights and responsibilities under these regulations.

The Commission shall provide a supply of sealed test kits. Each kit shall contain two clean specimen bottles.

The contestant shall randomly select a test kit and provide at least 30 milliliters of urine in each bottle.

The Commission inspector and observer, and the witness designated by the contestant, shall accompany the contestant continuously from the time a test kit is selected until the time the specimen bottles are filled and the required identification documents are completed.

The specimen bottles shall be sealed with a tamper-resistant seal by the Commission inspector or observer in the presence of the contestant and the contestant's witness.

The contestant, the contestant's witness, and the Commission's inspector and observer shall sign two affidavits. One affidavit shall be affixed to each bottle, which will certify that the urine sample was collected in accordance with Maryland law and these regulations and that there were no irregularities in the sampling process.

Evidence Bag.

(1)

The inspector or observer shall place the bottles in an evidence bag and seal the evidence bag in a manner which resists tampering.

(2)

The placement of the bottles into the evidence bag shall be witnessed by the contestant and the contestant's witness.

(3)

The inspector, the observer, the contestant, and the contestant's witness shall certify, on a form provided by the Commission, the following:

(a)

That at no time during the sample collection process, did any one tamper with or alter the labels, the bottles, or the urine sample;

(b)

That certification labels, correctly identifying the urine sample as belonging to the contestant, were affixed to both bottles;

(c)

That the inspector immediately sealed the bottles with tamper resistant tape upon receipt from the contestant and then placed the bottles in the evidence bag; and

(d)

The date and time the sample bottles were placed in the evidence bag.

Certification.

(1)

Any perceived irregularity shall be described and recorded on the affidavit form, before the signatures are placed on the affidavit form.

(2)

Irregularity in the specimen collection process shall be defined as tampering by any party with the sample kits, specimen bottles, labels, or urine specimen.

(3)

The contestant shall receive a copy of the affidavit.

All sealed and certified bottles shall be secured in a State Athletic Commission transportation case which shall also include a manifest of all samples collected at the event and a sample of any liquids given to the contestant to stimulate the production of urine.

Following the collection of the final sample, the inspector and the Commission appointed courier shall inventory all the urine samples and the inspector shall release the urine samples to the custody of the courier.

The courier shall affix a tamper resistant seal bearing the following information:

(1)

Date and time the transportation case was sealed;

(2)

Signature of the inspector; and

(3)

Signature of the courier.

Regulation .04 Testing of Samples.Link Copy Citation

Testing of the urine samples specified above shall be conducted by the Laboratories Administration of the Maryland Department of Health.

Regulation .05 Chain of Custody.Link Copy Citation

The Commission courier shall deliver the transportation case to the Laboratories Administration of the Maryland Department of Health not later than the end of the next business day after the boxing contest.

The Laboratories Administration shall designate an individual who will sign the manifest certifying that the transportation case has been received with the official seal intact.

Regulation .06 Testing Procedures.Link Copy Citation

The Laboratories Administration of the Maryland Department of Health shall perform the analyses on urine samples received from the Commission.

The preliminary urinalysis screen shall be performed by enzyme immunoassay or thin layer chromatography to detect the presence of controlled dangerous substances.

A urine sample which tests positive for the presence of controlled dangerous substances as defined in Regulation .01B(2) of this chapter shall be retested by a confirmatory test to confirm the presence of the controlled dangerous substance.

The confirmatory test shall be made by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry.

Regulation .07 Notification to the Commission of Urine Test Results.Link Copy Citation

The results of the urinalysis shall be reported to the Commission not later than 21 days after receipt of the specimens for testing.

Regulation .08 Notification of the Contestant.Link Copy Citation

A contestant whose urine test was positive shall be advised in writing of the following:

The test results;

The contestant's license is under a medical suspension; and

The date for a proposed hearing in accordance with COMAR 09.01.02.

Regulation .09 Penalties.Link Copy Citation

After a hearing, as provided in COMAR 09.01.02, the Commission shall impose the following penalties upon a contestant found to have a controlled dangerous substance in the contestant's urine sample:

Suspension or revocation of license;

Forfeiture of purse;

If the contestant was the winner of a Commission sanctioned contest, the contestant shall be disqualified and the decision of the contest shall be changed to “No Contest”;

If the contestant was the loser of the contest, the result shall remain unchanged.

Regulation .10 Reinstatement of License.Link Copy Citation

A licensee whose license was revoked under these regulations may apply for reinstatement after 1 year.

Chapter 14. Kickboxing Regulations

Regulation .01 Applicable Boxing Regulations.Link Copy Citation

Unless otherwise indicated the regulations in COMAR Subtitle 14 pertaining to the sport of boxing shall apply to the sport of kickboxing.

Regulation .02 Weight and Classes.Link Copy Citation

The Commission recognizes the following weights and classes:

(1)

Atomweight — 112.9 pounds and under (51.3 kilograms and below);

(2)

Flyweight — 113 to 118 pounds (51.4—54.0 kilograms);

(3)

Bantamweight — 119 to 125.9 pounds (54.1—57.2 kilograms);

(4)

Featherweight — 126 to 132.9 pounds (57.3—60.4 kilograms);

(5)

Lightweight — 133 to 139.9 pounds (60.4—63.6 kilograms);

(6)

Light welterweight — 140 to 147.9 pounds (63.6—67.2 kilograms);

(7)

Welterweight — 148 to 155.9 pounds (67.3—70.8 kilograms);

(8)

Light middleweight — 156 to 163.9 pounds (70.9—74.5 kilograms);

(9)

Middleweight — 164 to 171.9 pounds (74.6—78.1 kilograms);

(10)

Light heavyweight — 172 to 179.9 pounds (78.2—81.4 kilograms);

(11)

Heavyweight — 180 to 194.9 pounds (81.5—88.3 kilograms);

(12)

Super Heavyweight — Over 195 pounds (over 88.3 kilograms).

The following weight spreads are permissible for matchmaking within each weight division. Any situation in which fighters from two different weight divisions are matched shall be approved by the Commission and the weight spread used will be that of the weight division of the lighter weight. Any weight spread greater than those listed below requires the advance approval of the Commission:

(1)

Atom and featherweight — Not more than 4 pounds (1.8 kilograms);

(2)

Bantamweight — Not more than 5 pounds (2.27 kilograms);

(3)

Featherweight — Not more than 6 pounds (2.72 kilograms);

(4)

Lightweight — Not more than 7 pounds (3.17 kilograms);

(5)

Light welterweight — Not more than 8 pounds (3.62 kilograms);

(6)

Welterweight — Not more than 9 pounds (4.08 kilograms);

(7)

Light middleweight — Not more than 10 pounds (4.53 kilograms);

(8)

Heavyweight — Not more than 12 pounds (5.44 kilograms);

(9)

Superweight — Not more than 14 pounds (6.34 kilograms).

Regulation .03 Rounds.Link Copy Citation

Matches may not exceed nine 2-minute rounds with a 1-minute rest period between rounds.

The Commission may permit an additional three rounds for the purpose of championship events.

Regulation .04 Contestants' Safety Equipment.Link Copy Citation

Male contestants shall wear:

(1)

A foul-proof groin protector;

(2)

Abdominal guard;

(3)

Footpads; and

(4)

Shin guards.

Female contestants shall wear:

(1)

Foul-proof breast protectors; and

(2)

A pelvic protective girdle which covers the pubic area, ovaries, coccyx, and side of hips.

Contestants shall meet the requirements of COMAR 09.14.04.07.

Regulation .05 Methods of Judging.Link Copy Citation

Judges shall score all contests and determine the winner through the use of the 10-point must system.

The 10-point must system shall be applied as follows:

(1)

The winner of each round receives 10 points and the opponent a proportionally less number;

(2)

If a round is even, each boxer shall receive 10 points; and

(3)

Fractions of points may not be awarded.

During each round the referee shall instruct the master scorekeeper of points assigned to any foul as it is committed.

Following each round and at the termination of the contest, the referee shall collect the signed ballots of the judges and deliver them to the master scorekeeper, who shall tally each contestant's score and deduct any penalty points.

The contestant receiving the decision from a majority of the judges shall be declared the winner of the contest.

If neither boxer is granted the decision by a majority of the judges, the contest shall be declared a draw.

Regulation .06 Minimum Kicking Requirement.Link Copy Citation

Each contestant shall execute a minimum of eight kicks during the course of each round.

If either contestant does not execute the minimum number of kicks, a penalty of one point per kick less than the eight-kick minimum shall be assessed.

If both contestants fail to execute the minimum number of kicks, the round shall be declared a draw.

A contestant who fails in a contest of nine or more rounds to execute the minimum number of kicks in three rounds shall be disqualified.

A contestant who fails to execute five kicks per round shall be disqualified.

Regulation .07 Fouls.Link Copy Citation

The following tactics are fouls and are forbidden:

(1)

Headbutts, elbow strikes, clubbing, kicks, or punches or any other strikes to the groin, attack with the knees, openhand attacks to the eyes or throat, and striking at the part of the body over the kidney or spine, or chopping the back of the neck or head;

(2)

Spitting, biting, or, in the referee's discretion, slapping;

(3)

Palm heel strikes (using the heel of the palm of the hand to deliver a blow to the face);

(4)

Arm bars (grabbing one arm with the other and pressing the grabbed arm against the opponent's throat);

(5)

Grabbing or holding onto an opponent's leg or foot, and grabbing or holding onto any part of the body;

(6)

Punching or kicking a contestant when he is down, when any part of his body, other than his feet, touches the floor; however, the opponent may continue to attack until the contestant has touched the floor with any part of the body other than the feet;

(7)

Leg checking (extending the leg to check an opponent's leg or to prevent him from kicking);

(8)

Purposely going down without being hit;

(9)

The use of abusive language in the ring;

(10)

Any unsportsmanlike trick or action causing an injury to an opponent;

(11)

Attacking on the break;

(12)

Attacking after the bell or gong has sounded ending the round, or when the opponent is out of the ring;

(13)

Intentionally pushing, shoving, or wrestling an opponent out of the ring with any part of the body;

(14)

Kicking, striking, or kicksweeping below the belt, except blows to the side and back of thighs in a kung fu contest;

(15)

Failure to make eight kicks per round;

(16)

Any use of throws or any takedown not executed boot-to-boot;

(17)

Continuous dropping of mouthpiece;

(18)

Holding and hitting;

(19)

Intentional evasion of contact;

(20)

Hitting or flicking with an open glove.

Use of the tactics listed in §A(1)—(20) of this regulation shall result in a warning and a loss of points as determined by the referee.

A contestant guilty of foul tactics in a contest may be disqualified.

Regulation .08 Termination of a Contest.Link Copy Citation

A kickboxer suffering three knockdowns in any one round shall provide sufficient grounds to terminate a contest.

A referee may terminate the contest if:

(1)

Either boxer fails to execute five kicks per round;

(2)

Either boxer fails to execute the minimum number of required kicks in three rounds; or

(3)

In the referee's opinion, the kickboxer is unable to continue the contest.

The senior physician may terminate a contest if, in his opinion, the health of either kickboxer is in serious jeopardy.

A kickboxer giving up a contest during a rest period between rounds shall be determined to lose the contest by technical knockout in the preceding round.

A kickboxer failing to respond to the bell or gong signaling the beginning of a round shall be determined to lose the contest by a technical knockout in the round begun by the bell or gong.

Chapter 15. State Championships

Regulation .01 Designation.Link Copy Citation

The Commission may designate a contest as one in which the winner is declared the State champion for the weight class in which the contest takes place.

A contest may not be promoted as being for a State championship contest without the prior consent of the Commission.

Regulation .02 Eligibility.Link Copy Citation

To be eligible to participate in a State championship contest, a contestant shall:

(1)

Reside in Maryland for at least 1 year preceding the State championship contest; or

(2)

Participate in at least two contests in Maryland within a 24-month period preceding the State championship contest.

In determining the eligibility of a contestant to participate in a State championship contest, the Commission shall consider the contestant's:

(1)

Official record;

(2)

Experience; and

(3)

Fitness to compete in a contest pursuant to COMAR 09.14.04.

Regulation .03 Challenging for a State Championship.Link Copy Citation

To challenge for a State championship, a contestant shall submit a written challenge to the Commission.

Upon determining that a contestant is eligible as provided in Regulation .02 of this chapter, the Commission, within 10 days after its determination, shall notify the existing State champion in the pertinent weight class, if any, of the:

(1)

Filing of the challenge; and

(2)

Date by which a title defense shall be made.

Regulation .04 Defense of a State Championship.Link Copy Citation

If a proper challenge is made, a State champion shall defend the State championship within 6 months from the date of winning or retaining a State championship.

The Commission may extend the time within which a State championship is to be defended if:

(1)

A determination by the Commission that a contestant is an eligible challenger is made within 30 days of the time within which the State championship is to be defended; or

(2)

The State champion is suffering from an injury or ailment, certified by the Commission's medical staff, that renders the State champion unfit to participate in a contest.

Regulation .05 Loss of State Championship.Link Copy Citation

The Commission may void a State championship held by a contestant for any of the following reasons:

A loss in the ring in a State championship contest;

A forfeit in a State championship contest;

The inability to make weight for a State championship contest;

The failure to defend a State championship as required by Regulation .04 of this chapter;

The winning of a regional, continental, or world championship title;

A violation of Business Regulation Article, Title 4, Annotated Code of Maryland, or any regulation of the Commission; and

A violation of any federal or state law other than minor traffic violations.

Regulation .06 Determination of Champion Status.Link Copy Citation

A contestant is considered a State champion only by winning a State championship contest, and a contestant may not be considered a State champion by way of default.

Regulation .07 Length and Time of Rounds.Link Copy Citation

A contest to determine a State champion consists of:

Ten 3-minute rounds in a boxing or kickboxing contest; and

Five 5-minute rounds in a mixed martial arts contest.

Regulation .08 Promotional Activities.Link Copy Citation

A person may not promote or advertise a contestant as a State champion or challenger for a State championship in a false or misleading manner.

Regulation .09 Championship Belt.Link Copy Citation

The promoter of a State championship contest is responsible for the cost of a State championship belt.

The design of a State championship belt is subject to the approval of the Commission.

Chapter 16. Mixed Martial Arts—Professional

Regulation .01 Applicable Boxing Regulations.Link Copy Citation

Unless otherwise indicated, the regulations in this subtitle pertaining to the sport of boxing shall apply to the sport of professional mixed martial arts.

Regulation .02 Weights and Classes.Link Copy Citation

The Commission recognizes the following weights and classes in professional mixed martial arts:

(1)

Flyweight—up to 125 pounds;

(2)

Bantamweight—over 125 pounds to 135 pounds;

(3)

Featherweight—over 135 pounds to 145 pounds;

(4)

Lightweight—over 145 pounds to 155 pounds;

(5)

Welterweight—over 155 pounds to 170 pounds;

(6)

Middleweight—over 170 pounds to 185 pounds;

(7)

Light heavyweight—over 185 pounds to 205 pounds;

(8)

Heavyweight—over 205 pounds to 265 pounds; and

(9)

Super heavyweight—all over 265 pounds.

If a mixed martial arts contestant's weight is greater than the weight specified in the promoter-contestant contract, the contest may not take place without special permission of the Commission.

Regulation .03 Mixed Martial Arts Contestant Equipment.Link Copy Citation

General. Each mixed martial arts contestant shall use the equipment, and in the manner, specified in this regulation.

Hand Wraps. For all weight classes, the hand wraps shall be:

(1)

Soft gauze cloth not more than 13 yards long and 2 inches wide, distributed evenly across the hand;

(2)

Held in place by not more than 10 feet of surgeon's tape, 1 inch wide, for each hand, which shall:

(a)

Be placed directly on each hand for protection near the wrist; and

(b)

Cross the back of the hand twice and extend to cover and protect the knuckles when the hand is clenched to make a fist;

(3)

Placed on a mixed martial arts contestant's hands in the dressing room in the presence of the chief second of the mixed martial arts contestant's opponent; and

(4)

Be inspected and approved by the Commission prior to the gloves being placed on the hands of the mixed martial arts contestant.

Gloves. Gloves worn by each mixed martial arts contestant during a contest shall:

(1)

Be open-fingered;

(2)

Conform to specifications as determined by the Commission;

(3)

Weigh between 4 and 7.5 ounces; and

(4)

Be examined before the contest by a Commission representative and the referee.

A mouth guard shall be approved by the Commission.

Groin protection shall be approved by the Commission.

Regulation .04 Proper Attire and Appearance.Link Copy Citation

A mixed martial arts contestant, during a contest:

(1)

Shall wear shorts approved by the Commission;

(2)

May wear one or more neoprene sleeves without taping;

(3)

May not be taped on any part of the body other than in a hand-wrap as described in Regulation .03B of this chapter; and

(4)

May not wear shoes or any padding on the feet.

A mixed martial arts contestant shall have properly trimmed fingernails and toenails.

Regulation .05 Fighting Area.Link Copy Citation

A mixed martial arts contest shall be held in a ring or in a fenced area.

A ring used for a contest of mixed martial arts shall meet the following requirements:

(1)

The ring may not be smaller than 20 feet square and may not be larger than 32 feet square within the ropes;

(2)

The ring floor shall:

(a)

Extend at least 18 inches beyond the ropes;

(b)

Be padded with ensolite or another similar closed-cell foam, with at least a 1-inch layer of foam padding, which shall extend beyond the ring ropes and over the edge of the platform;

(c)

Have a top covering of canvas, duck, or similar material that:

(i)

Does not tend to gather in lumps or ridges; and

(ii)

Is tightly stretched and laced to the ring platform; and

(d)

Be free of any obstruction or object, including a triangular border;

(3)

The ring platform:

(a)

May not be more than 4 feet above the floor of the building; and

(b)

Shall have suitable steps for the use of the mixed martial arts contestants;

(4)

The ring posts:

(a)

Shall be made of metal;

(b)

May not be more than 3 inches in diameter, extending from the floor of the building to a minimum height of 58 inches above the ring floor;

(c)

Shall be at least 18 inches away from the ring ropes; and

(d)

Shall be properly padded in a manner approved by the Commission; and

(5)

The ring ropes:

(a)

Shall be five in number;

(b)

May not be less than 1 inch in diameter;

(c)

Shall be wrapped in soft material; and

(d)

Shall be at least 12 inches above the ring floor.

A fenced area used for a contest of mixed martial arts shall meet the following requirements:

(1)

The fenced area shall be circular or have at least four equal sides;

(2)

The fenced area may not be smaller than 20 feet wide and may not be larger than 32 feet wide in diameter;

(3)

The floor of the fenced area shall:

(a)

Be padded with ensolite or another similar closed-cell foam, with at least a 1-inch layer of foam padding; and

(b)

Have a top covering of canvas, duck, or similar material that:

(i)

Does not tend to gather in lumps or ridges; and

(ii)

Is tightly stretched and laced to the platform of the fenced area;

(4)

The platform of the fenced area:

(a)

May not be more than 4 feet above the floor of the building; and

(b)

Shall have suitable steps for the use of the mixed martial arts contestants;

(5)

The fence posts of the fenced area shall be:

(a)

Made of metal, not more than 6 inches in diameter, extending from the floor of the building to between 5 and 7 feet above the floor of the fenced area; and

(b)

Properly padded in a manner approved by the Commission;

(6)

The fencing used to enclose the fenced area shall be made of a material that will prevent a mixed martial arts contestant from falling out of, or breaking through, the fenced area onto the floor of the building or onto the spectators;

(7)

Any metal portion of the fenced area shall be covered and padded in a manner approved by the Commission and may not be abrasive to the mixed martial arts contestants;

(8)

The fenced area shall have two entrances; and

(9)

There may not be any obstruction on any part of the fence surrounding the area where the mixed martial arts contestants are to be competing.

Regulation .06 Video Screens.Link Copy Citation

The promoter of a mixed martial arts contest shall hang at least two video screens that:

Allow spectators and judges to view the action inside the ring or fenced area from an overhead perspective; and

Meet the approval of the Commission.

Regulation .07 Rounds.Link Copy Citation

A nonchampionship contest of mixed martial arts may not exceed three rounds in duration.

A championship contest of mixed martial arts shall be five rounds in duration.

Unless otherwise approved by the Commission, each round in a mixed martial arts contest shall be 5 minutes in duration with a 1-minute rest period between each round.

The total number of rounds and the total number of mixed martial arts contests a promoter is authorized to schedule shall be subject to the approval of the Commission.

Regulation .08 Referee.Link Copy Citation

The referee shall be:

The sole arbiter of a mixed martial arts contest; and

Other than the senior ringside physician, the only individual authorized to:

(1)

Enter the fighting area at any time during the competition; and

(2)

Stop a contest.

Regulation .09 Method of Judging.Link Copy Citation

All mixed martial arts contests shall be evaluated and scored by three judges.

The 10-Point Must System shall be the standard system of scoring a mixed martial arts contest where:

(1)

The winner of each round receives 10 points and the opponent proportionately less;

(2)

If a round is even, each mixed martial arts contestant receives 10 points; and

(3)

Fractions of points may not be awarded.

Judges shall evaluate mixed martial arts techniques, including:

(1)

Effective striking;

(2)

Effective grappling;

(3)

Control of the fighting area;

(4)

Effective aggressiveness; and

(5)

Defense.

Except as provided in §K of this regulation, when scoring each round, the judges shall evaluate the mixed martial arts techniques set forth in §C of this regulation by assigning the most weight to the technique in the order it appears in §C of this regulation.

Effective striking shall be judged by determining the total number of legal heavy strikes landed by a contestant.

Effective grappling shall be judged by considering the number of successful executions of a legal takedown and a legal reversal including:

(1)

A takedown from the standing position to a mount position;

(2)

Passing the guard to a mount position; and

(3)

A bottom position mixed martial arts contestant using an active, threatening guard.

Fighting area control shall be judged by determining which mixed martial arts contestant is dictating the pace, location, and position of the bout, including:

(1)

Countering an attempted takedown by remaining standing and legally striking;

(2)

Taking down an opponent to force a ground fight;

(3)

Creating a threatening submission attempt;

(4)

Passing the guard to achieve a mount; and

(5)

Creating striking opportunities.

Effective aggressiveness means moving forward and landing a legal strike.

Effective defense means avoiding being struck, taken down, or reversed while countering with offensive attacks.

The following objective scoring criteria shall be utilized by the judges when scoring a round:

(1)

A round shall be scored as a 10-10 round when both mixed martial arts contestants appear to be fighting evenly and neither mixed martial arts contestant shows clear dominance in a round;

(2)

A round shall be scored as a 10-9 round when a mixed martial arts contestant wins by a close margin, landing the greater number of effective legal strikes, grappling, and other maneuvers;

(3)

A round shall be scored as a 10-8 round when a mixed martial arts contestant overwhelmingly dominates by striking or grappling in a round; and

(4)

A round shall be scored as a 10-7 round when a mixed martial arts contestant totally dominates by striking or grappling in a round.

Judges shall use a sliding scale and recognize the length of time the mixed martial arts contestants are either standing or on the ground, as follows:

(1)

If the mixed martial arts contestant spent a majority of a round on the canvas, then:

(a)

Effective grappling is weighed first; and

(b)

Effective striking is then weighed;

(2)

If the mixed martial arts contestant spent a majority of a round standing, then:

(a)

Effective striking is weighed first; and

(b)

Effective grappling is then weighed; and

(3)

If a round ends with a relatively even amount of time spent standing and on the canvas, striking and grappling shall be weighed equally.

Regulation .10 Fouls.Link Copy Citation

A mixed martial arts contestant who flagrantly or repeatedly commits a foul may be:

(1)

Disqualified in a contest by the referee; and

(2)

Subject to disciplinary action by the Commission.

The following acts are fouls and may result in penalties:

(1)

Butting with the head;

(2)

Eye gouging of any kind;

(3)

Biting or spitting at an opponent;

(4)

Hair pulling;

(5)

Fish hooking;

(6)

Groin attacks of any kind;

(7)

Intentionally placing a finger in any opponent's orifice, or into any cut or laceration of an opponent;

(8)

Downward pointing of elbow strikes;

(9)

Small joint manipulation;

(10)

Strikes to the spine or back of the head;

(11)

Strikes or kicks to the kidney;

(12)

Throat strikes of any kind, including the grabbing of the trachea;

(13)

Clawing, pinching, or twisting the flesh or grabbing the clavicle;

(14)

Kicking the head of a grounded mixed martial arts contestant;

(15)

Kneeing the head of a grounded mixed martial arts contestant;

(16)

Stomping of a grounded mixed martial arts contestant;

(17)

The use of abusive language in the fighting area;

(18)

Any unsportsmanlike conduct that causes an injury to an opponent;

(19)

Attacking an opponent on or during the break;

(20)

Attacking an opponent who is under the referee's care;

(21)

Timidity, including:

(a)

Avoiding contact;

(b)

Continual dropping of the contestant's mouthpiece; or

(c)

Faking an injury;

(22)

Interference from a mixed martial arts contestant's second, including throwing in the towel during competition;

(23)

Throwing an opponent out of the fighting area;

(24)

Flagrant disregard of the referee's instructions; and

(25)

Spiking an opponent to the canvas on the head or neck.

Except as provided in §E of this regulation, if a foul is committed, the referee may:

(1)

Call time;

(2)

Check the fouled mixed martial arts contestant's condition and safety; and

(3)

Assess the foul to the offending contestant and deduct one or more points, based upon the severity and effect of the foul, by notifying, as soon as practical, but not later than the end of the round in which the foul occurred:

(a)

Both corners;

(b)

The judges; and

(c)

The Commission table.

Subject to the discretion of the referee, a fouled mixed martial arts contestant may have up to 5 minutes to recuperate.

If a bottom mixed martial arts contestant commits a foul, unless the top mixed martial arts contestant is injured, the contest shall continue, so as not to jeopardize the top mixed martial arts contestant's superior positioning at the time, and the referee shall:

(1)

Verbally notify the bottom mixed martial arts contestant of the foul; and

(2)

Assess the foul and notify both corners' seconds, the judges, and the official scorekeeper of the same when the round is over.

If the referee does not call a foul and deduct one or more points, the judges may not make such an assessment on their own or factor such an assessment into their scoring calculations.

A deduction of one or more points by the referee shall result in that number of points being deducted from the offending mixed martial arts contestant's score by the official scorekeeper.

Regulation .11 Injuries Sustained During Competition.Link Copy Citation

If an injury sustained during competition as a result of a legal maneuver is severe enough to terminate a contest, the injured mixed martial arts contestant shall lose by a technical knockout.

If an injury sustained during competition as a result of an intentional foul is severe enough to terminate a contest, the mixed martial arts contestant causing the injury shall be disqualified.

If an injury is sustained during competition as a result of an intentional foul and the contest is allowed to continue, the referee shall notify the scorekeeper to automatically deduct one or more points from the contestant who committed the foul.

If an injury sustained during competition as a result of an intentional foul causes the injured mixed martial arts contestant to be unable to continue at a subsequent point in the contest:

(1)

The injured mixed martial arts contestant shall win by technical decision if the contestant is ahead on the scorecards at the time of the stoppage; and

(2)

The contest shall be declared a technical draw if the injured mixed martial arts contestant is even or behind on the score cards at the time of stoppage.

If a mixed martial arts contestant injures himself or herself while attempting to foul his or her opponent:

(1)

The referee may not take any action in his or her favor; and

(2)

The injury shall be treated in the same manner as an injury produced by a fair blow.

(1)

In a three-round contest, the contest is stopped before two rounds have been completed; or

(2)

In a five-round contest, the contest is stopped before three rounds have been completed.

If an injury sustained during competition as a result of an accidental foul is severe enough for the referee to stop the contest immediately or in a subsequent round, the contest shall result in a technical decision awarded to the mixed martial arts contestant who is ahead on the score cards at the time the contest is stopped if:

(1)

In a three-round contest, the contest is stopped after two rounds have been completed; or

(2)

In a five-round contest, the contest is stopped after three rounds have been completed.

If an accidental foul occurs and the injured mixed martial arts contestant is able to continue, the referee shall notify both corners, the judges, and the Commission table of the accidental foul not later than the end of the round in which the accidental foul took place.

An incomplete round may not be scored.

Regulation .12 Results of a Contest.Link Copy Citation

A mixed martial arts contest may end under any of the following results:

Knockout, by the failure of a mixed martial arts contestant to rise from the canvas;

Technical knockout, by the referee or ringside physician determining that a mixed martial arts contestant is unable to continue the contest;

Submission by tap-out when a mixed martial arts contestant:

(1)

Physically uses his or her hand to indicate that he or she no longer wishes to continue; or

(2)

Verbally announces to the referee that he or she does not wish to continue;

Decision via score cards, including:

(1)

Unanimous decision, when all three judges score the contest in favor of the same mixed martial arts contestant;

(2)

Split decision, when two judges score the contest in favor of one mixed martial arts contestant and one judge scores the contest in favor of the other mixed martial arts contestant; or

(3)

Majority decision, when two judges score the contest in favor of the same mixed martial arts contestant and one judge scores the contest as a draw;

Draw, including:

(1)

Unanimous draw, when all three judges score the contest a draw;

(2)

Majority draw, when two judges score the contest a draw and one judge scores the contest in favor of one of the mixed martial arts contestants; or

(3)

Split draw, when one judge scores the contest in favor of one of the mixed martial arts contestants, another judge scores the contest in favor of the other mixed martial arts contestant, and the third judge scores the contest a draw;

Technical draw, when an injury sustained during competition as a result of an intentional foul causes the injured mixed martial arts contestant to be unable to continue, and the injured mixed martial arts contestant is even or behind on the score cards at the time of stoppage;

Technical decision, when the contest is prematurely stopped due to an accidental injury, and a mixed martial arts contestant is leading on the score cards;

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 the score cards; or

Disqualification, as provided in Regulation .10A of this chapter.

Chapter 17. Mixed Martial Arts — Amateur

Regulation .01 General.Link Copy Citation

Definition.

(1)

In this chapter, the following term has the meaning indicated.

(2)

Term Defined. “Organization” means an amateur kickboxing organization or an amateur mixed martial arts organization, as described in Business Regulation Article, §4-302(a)(3), Annotated Code of Maryland.

All amateur mixed martial arts contests shall be conducted under the supervision of an organization.

Regulation .02 Organization Supervising Amateur Mixed Martial Arts.Link Copy Citation

An organization seeking to supervise an amateur mixed martial arts contest shall:

Be approved by the Commission;

Ensure that all contests are conducted in accordance with these regulations regarding amateur mixed martial arts;

Have a Commission-approved training and certification program for officials;

Provide the Commission with evidence demonstrating:

(1)

A minimum of $100,000 in liability insurance coverage for the officials; and

(2)

A minimum of $10,000 in medical insurance coverage for the amateur mixed martial arts contestants;

Provide the Commission with any other information it may request, provided the Commission request is neither arbitrary nor capricious;

Ensure the presence of two Commission-approved ringside physicians on-site and at ringside at all times during the amateur mixed martial arts contests being supervised by the organization;

Ensure the presence of the following equipment and personnel on-site at all times during the amateur mixed martial arts contests being supervised by the organization:

(1)

A stretcher;

(2)

A portable resuscitator or Ambubag with oxygen equipment;

(3)

A hard cervical collar;

(4)

Endotracheal tubes with laryngoscope;

(5)

A portable defibrillator;

(6)

Advanced life support medications; and

(7)

An ambulance crew consisting of:

(a)

One emergency medical technician—paramedic (EMT-P); and

(b)

One emergency medical technician—basic (EMT-B);

Ensure that the officials used by the organization in the supervision of the amateur mixed martial arts contests have been approved by the Commission;

Ensure that none of the amateur mixed martial arts contestants receives any type of purse payment or other form of compensation other than Commission-approved travel expenses;

Obtain from each amateur mixed martial arts contestant a signed affidavit in which the amateur mixed martial arts contestant attests that he or she:

(1)

Has been trained in mixed martial arts, including the number of years of the training;

(2)

Is sufficiently skilled, healthy, and prepared to compete in the scheduled amateur mixed martial arts contest;

(3)

Understands the dangers and risks attendant to participating in amateur mixed martial arts;

(4)

Waives any claim against the organization supervising the amateur mixed martial arts contest and the Commission related to any injury he or she sustains while participating in amateur mixed martial arts;

(5)

Is not under suspension in any jurisdiction or by any organization supervising amateur mixed martial arts contests;

(6)

Has never participated in a professional mixed martial arts contest; and

(7)

Last participated in an amateur mixed martial arts contest on a specified date, and the result of that amateur mixed martial arts contest;

Obtain from the trainer of each amateur mixed martial arts contestant a signed affidavit in which the trainer attests to:

(1)

The name, address, and telephone number of the gym or school in which the trainer performs his or her duties;

(2)

The length of time the trainer has trained the amateur mixed martial arts contestant; and

(3)

The fact that the amateur mixed martial arts contestant:

(a)

Is sufficiently skilled, healthy, and prepared to compete in the scheduled amateur mixed martial arts contest;

(b)

Has never participated in a professional mixed martial arts contest; and

(c)

Is not under suspension in any jurisdiction or by any organization supervising professional or amateur mixed martial arts;

Ensure that there are no exhibition bouts;

Conduct a weigh-in, which shall be completed not later than 2 hours from the time the weigh-in begins;

Ensure that each amateur mixed martial arts contestants has a:

(1)

Comprehensive physical examination conducted by a licensed physician, completed within 30 days of the amateur mixed martial arts contest, stating that the mixed martial arts contestant is healthy to compete in an amateur mixed martial arts contest;

(2)

Precontest physical examination conducted by a Commission-approved ringside physician; and

(3)

Post-contest physical examination immediately following the conclusion of the contest in which the amateur mixed martial arts contestant competes;

Conduct a precontest rules meeting, which shall be attended by each amateur mixed martial arts contestant scheduled to participate in a contest, and disqualify any amateur mixed martial arts contestant who fails to attend;

Inspect the fighting area before the amateur mixed martial arts contest begins; and

Supervise the hand wrapping and glove placement for each amateur mixed martial arts contestant.

Regulation .03 Promoters.Link Copy Citation

The promoter of an amateur mixed martial arts contest shall:

Obtain sanctioning approval from an organization to supervise the contest, including the payment of any applicable fees;

Notify the organization of the date, time, and location of the amateur mixed martial arts contest at least 60 days prior to the date the contest is scheduled to be held;

Agree that the organization will be responsible for appointing the officials for the amateur mixed martial arts contests, and that the promoter will not be permitted to officiate the contests he or she promotes;

Be responsible for paying the officials the following fees, subject to increase if more than 15 contests are scheduled:

(1)

One referee at a minimum of $100 per eight contests;

(2)

Three judges at a minimum of $100 each;

(3)

Two inspectors at a minimum of $75 each;

(4)

One timekeeper at a minimum of $75;

(5)

One scorekeeper at a minimum of $75; and

(6)

Two ringside physicians at a minimum of $200 each; and

Within 48 hours prior to a scheduled amateur mixed martial contest, submit to the organization, in writing:

(1)

A list containing the following for each amateur mixed martial arts contestant scheduled to participate in the contest:

(a)

Name;

(b)

Address;

(c)

Telephone number;

(d)

Age;

(e)

Height and weight;

(f)

Trainer;

(g)

Trainer's telephone number;

(h)

Training gym or school; and

(i)

Amateur mixed martial arts record;

(2)

A certification that two Commission-approved ringside physicians will be on-site and at ringside at all times when competition is ongoing;

(3)

A certification that the requirements of Regulation .02G of this chapter will be met;

(4)

A certification that the contests will be conducted under the amateur mixed martial arts regulations of the Commission;

(5)

The required medical insurance and accidental death insurance policies, as described in Regulation .02D of this chapter; and

(6)

Any other information the organization may reasonably request.

Regulation .04 Additional Duties and Responsibilities of a Promoter.Link Copy Citation

A promoter shall provide the following equipment at an amateur mixed martial arts contest:

(1)

Gloves:

(a)

Approved by the organization;

(b)

Weighing from 4.0 to 7.5 ounces; and

(c)

In red and blue to denote the color for each corner;

(2)

Gauze and surgeon's tape for the contestant's wraps at each contest;

(3)

Shin and instep guards in various sizes, approved by the organization, in red and blue to denote the color for each corner;

(4)

Disposable gloves for each second, each referee, and each ringside physician; and

(5)

For each second, a form of identification indicating that person is allowed:

(a)

Access into the ring or fenced area; and

(b)

To be in a corner.

Prior to handing out equipment, a promoter shall clean each piece, inside and out, with antibacterial disinfectant wipes.

After each amateur mixed martial arts contestant returns his or her equipment, a promoter shall clean each piece, inside and out, with antibacterial disinfectant wipes before issuing the equipment to another amateur mixed martial arts contestant.

After all equipment is returned at the end of all of the contests, a promoter shall clean each piece of equipment, inside and out, with antibacterial disinfectant wipes.

A promoter shall make hand sanitizer available to all amateur mixed martial arts contestants, which shall be kept at the equipment table and used by each amateur mixed martial arts contestant:

(1)

Prior to putting on his or her wraps; and

(2)

After his or her contest, when the wraps are removed.

Regulation .05 Physical Examination.Link Copy Citation

Each amateur mixed martial arts contestant shall submit to the organization a comprehensive physical examination by a licensed physician, completed within 30 days of the amateur mixed martial arts contest, stating that the mixed martial arts contestant is healthy to compete in an amateur mixed martial arts contest.

Each amateur mixed martial arts contestant shall be examined by a Commission-approved ringside physician and be approved to participate prior to participating in an amateur mixed martial arts contest.

The failure of an amateur mixed martial arts contestant to be examined in accordance with §§A and B of this regulation shall result in the disqualification of the amateur mixed martial arts contestant.

Each amateur mixed martial arts contestant shall be examined by a Commission-approved ringside physician immediately after the amateur mixed martial arts contestant participates in an amateur mixed martial arts contest.

The failure of an amateur mixed martial arts contestant to be examined in accordance with §D of this regulation shall result in a minimum 90-day suspension of the amateur mixed martial arts contestant.

Regulation .06 Weight and Classes.Link Copy Citation

Men's Division. The Commission recognizes the following weights and classes in amateur mixed martial arts for male contestants:

(1)

Flyweight—up to 112 pounds;

(2)

Bantamweight—over 112 pounds to 118 pounds;

(3)

Super bantamweight—over 118 pounds to 122 pounds;

(4)

Featherweight—over 122 pounds to 126 pounds;

(5)

Super featherweight—over 126 pounds to 130 pounds;

(6)

Lightweight—over 130 pounds to 135 pounds;

(7)

Super lightweight—over 135 pounds to 140 pounds;

(8)

Welterweight—over 140 pounds to 147 pounds;

(9)

Super welterweight—over 147 pounds to 154 pounds;

(10)

Middleweight—over 154 pounds to 160 pounds;

(11)

Super middleweight—over 160 pounds to 167 pounds;

(12)

Light heavyweight—over 167 pounds to 175 pounds;

(13)

Super light heavyweight—over 175 pounds to 183 pounds;

(14)

Cruiserweight—over 183 pounds to 190 pounds;

(15)

Super cruiserweight—over 190 pounds to 195 pounds;

(16)

Heavyweight—over 195 pounds to 210 pounds; and

(17)

Super heavyweight—all over 210 pounds.

Women's Division. The Commission recognizes the following weights and classes in amateur mixed martial arts for female contestants:

(1)

Flyweight—up to 105 pounds;

(2)

Bantamweight—over 105 pounds to 114 pounds;

(3)

Featherweight—over 114 pounds to 123 pounds;

(4)

Lightweight—over 123 pounds to 132 pounds;

(5)

Welterweight—over 132 pounds to 141 pounds;

(6)

Middleweight—over 141 pounds to 150 pounds;

(7)

Light heavyweight—over 150 pounds to 159 pounds;

(8)

Cruiserweight—over 159 pounds to 168 pounds; and

(9)

Heavyweight—all over 168 pounds.

Weight differences between contestants may not exceed 7 pounds.

Regulation .07 Weigh-In.Link Copy Citation

A weigh-in shall be completed within 2 hours from the time of its commencement.

If an amateur mixed martial arts contestant is not present at the weigh-in, the amateur mixed martial arts contestant may not be allowed to participate in the contest for which he or she was scheduled.

At the weigh-in, if an amateur mixed martial arts contestant is over the allowable weight, a second weigh-in may be conducted not more than 1 hour after the initial weigh-in.

An amateur mixed martial arts contestant may not be permitted to lose more than 2 pounds between the first and second weigh-in.

If an amateur mixed martial arts contestant does not make weight or fails to attend the weigh-in, the contest in which the amateur mixed martial arts contestant was scheduled to participate shall be canceled.

Regulation .08 Equipment, Attire, and Appearance.Link Copy Citation

An amateur mixed martial arts contestant shall use:

(1)

Hand wraps as described in COMAR 09.14.16.03B;

(2)

Open finger gloves, which shall weigh not less than 4 ounces and not more than 7.5 ounces;

(3)

A mouth guard;

(4)

Shin pads;

(5)

Instep pads; and

(6)

For male contestants, groin protection.

An amateur mixed martial arts contestant may not use:

(1)

Shoes or sneakers;

(2)

Shorts with a metal zipper;

(3)

A shirt, other than a female amateur mixed martial arts contestant, who shall wear a rashguard; or

(4)

Grease, oil, balm, lotion, or an excessive amount of petroleum jelly on the face or body.

An amateur mixed martial arts contestant shall have properly trimmed fingernails and toenails.

Regulation .09 Rounds.Link Copy Citation

Unless the organization agrees to fewer rounds per contest or rounds of a lesser duration, each amateur mixed martial arts contest shall consist of three 3-minute rounds with a 1-minute rest period between each round.

The organization shall prescribe the total number of rounds and the total number of amateur mixed martial arts contests a promoter is authorized to schedule.

Not more than one corner person for each amateur MMA contestant may be in the fighting area between rounds.

Regulation .10 Seconds.Link Copy Citation

More than three seconds may not be in the corner of each amateur mixed martial arts contestant.

All seconds shall wear disposable gloves.

Regulation .11 Legal Techniques.Link Copy Citation

The following techniques are permissible in amateur mixed martial arts while an amateur mixed martial arts contestant is in a standing position:

(1)

Closed hand strikes to head and body;

(2)

Kicking techniques to body;

(3)

Knees to body and legs;

(4)

Throws, takedowns, and sweeps;

(5)

Standing submissions;

(6)

Chokes;

(7)

Arm bars; and

(8)

Shouldering.

The following techniques are permissible in amateur mixed martial arts while an amateur mixed martial arts contestant is on the ground:

(1)

Closed hand strikes to the body and legs; and

(2)

Submissions restricted to those accomplished by:

(a)

Chokes;

(b)

Arm bars; or

(c)

Straight leg locks.

Regulation .12 Illegal Techniques.Link Copy Citation

The following techniques are not permissible in amateur mixed martial arts while an amateur mixed martial arts contestant is in a standing position:

(1)

Striking an opponent with the elbows;

(2)

Striking with the knees to the head of an opponent;

(3)

Kicking the knees of an opponent;

(4)

Stomping the feet of an opponent;

(5)

Striking the groin of an opponent;

(6)

Striking the back of an opponent's head;

(7)

Striking the spine of an opponent;

(8)

Slamming an opponent to the ground;

(9)

Throwing an opponent onto his or her head or neck;

(10)

Throwing an opponent against a joint;

(11)

Throwing an opponent out of the competition area;

(12)

Cranking the neck of an opponent;

(13)

Pinching, biting, or gouging an opponent;

(14)

Holding onto the ropes of enclosure; and

(15)

Striking or kicking the kidney of an opponent.

The following techniques are not permissible in amateur mixed martial arts while an amateur mixed martial arts contestant is on the ground:

(1)

Any striking of an opponent's head;

(2)

Any striking of an opponent with an elbow;

(3)

Cranking of an opponent's neck;

(4)

Hooking an opponent's heel;

(5)

Locking an opponent's finger or toe;

(6)

Choking an opponent by the placement of a hand on the opponent's throat;

(7)

Smothering an opponent by the placement of a hand over the opponent's mouth;

(8)

Locking an opponent's spine;

(9)

Placing an opponent in a hammer lock;

(10)

Fish hooking an opponent;

(11)

Striking an opponent in the groin;

(12)

Striking an opponent in the spine;

(13)

Slamming an opponent to the ground;

(14)

Throwing an opponent out of the competition area;

(15)

Pinching, biting, or gouging an opponent;

(16)

Twisting an opponent's leg, knee, or ankle; and

(17)

Striking or kicking the kidney of an opponent.

Regulation .13 Injuries Sustained During Competition.Link Copy Citation

If an injury sustained during competition as a result of a legal maneuver is severe enough to terminate a contest, the injured amateur mixed martial arts contestant shall lose by a technical knockout.

If an injury sustained during competition as a result of an intentional foul is severe enough to terminate a contest, the amateur mixed martial arts contestant causing the injury shall be disqualified.

If an injury sustained during competition as a result of an intentional foul causes the injured amateur mixed martial arts contestant to be unable to continue at a subsequent point in the contest:

(1)

The injured amateur mixed martial arts contestant shall win by technical decision if he or she is ahead on the scorecards at the time of the stoppage; and

(2)

The contest shall be declared a technical draw if the injured amateur mixed martial arts contestant is even or behind on the score cards at the time of stoppage.

If an amateur mixed martial arts contestant injures himself or herself while attempting to foul his or her opponent:

(1)

The referee may not take any action in his or her favor; and

(2)

The injury shall be treated in the same manner as an injury produced by a fair blow.

If an accidental foul occurs and the injured mixed martial arts contestant is able to continue, the referee shall notify both corners, the judges, and the organization of the accidental foul not later than the end of the round in which the accidental foul took place.

If an injury sustained during competition as a result of an accidental foul is severe enough for the referee to stop the contest immediately or in a subsequent round, the contest shall result in a no contest if the accidental foul occurs before one round has been completed in a three-round contest.

If an injury sustained during competition as a result of an accidental foul is severe enough for the referee to stop the contest immediately or in a subsequent round, the contest shall result in a technical decision awarded to the amateur mixed martial arts contestant who is ahead on the score cards at the time the contest is stopped if the contest is stopped after one round has been completed in a three-round contest.

An incomplete round may not be scored.

Regulation .14 Results of a Contest.Link Copy Citation

An amateur mixed martial arts contest may end under any of the results described in COMAR 09.14.16.12.

The organization shall report the results of each amateur mixed martial arts contest, and any suspension resulting from the contest, to the mixed martial arts record keeper, certified by the Association of Boxing Commissions, within a time frame prescribed by the Association of Boxing Commissions.

Chapter 18. Muay Thai Regulations — Professional

Regulation .01 Applicable Boxing Regulations.Link Copy Citation

Unless otherwise indicated, the regulations in this subtitle pertaining to the sport of boxing shall apply to the sport of Professional Muay Thai.

Regulation .02 Definitions.Link Copy Citation

In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated and, unless otherwise indicated, the regulations in this subtitle pertaining to the sport of boxing shall apply to the sport of Professional Muay Thai.

Terms Defined.

(1)

“Commission” means the State Athletic Commission of Maryland.

(2)

“Contest” means any Muay Thai:

(a)

Competition;

(b)

Match;

(c)

Performance; or

(d)

Show.

(3)

“Contestant” means a Muay Thai fighter who participates against an opponent in a contest.

(4)

Manager.

(a)

“Manager” means a person who, under contract, agreement, or other arrangement, undertakes to control or administer, directly or indirectly, a Muay Thai contest-related matter on behalf of a contestant.

(b)

“Manager” includes, but is not limited to:

(i)

A booking agent; and

(ii)

An advisor.

(5)

“Muay Thai” means a competition in which contestants use interdisciplinary forms of fighting, including striking with the hands, feet, knees, or elbows.

(6)

“Official record” means the cumulative results of Muay Thai contests, sanctioned by a regulatory agency, in which a contestant has participated.

(7)

“Promoter” means an individual, partnership, corporation, club, association or other organization that gives, holds, or otherwise conducts a Muay Thai contest within the State.

(8)

“Regulatory agency” means a commission, board, or other entity of a state, commonwealth, territory, or country, created by law or executive order, which regulates Muay Thai contests.

(9)

“Second” means an individual who assists a Muay Thai contestant during a contest.

Regulation .03 Weights and Classes.Link Copy Citation

The Commission recognizes the following weights and classes in Professional Muay Thai:

(1)

Mini-Flyweight up to and including 105 pounds

(2)

Light-Flyweight over 105 to 108 pounds;

(3)

Flyweight over 108 to 112 pounds;

(4)

Super-Flyweight over 112 to 115 pounds;

(5)

Bantamweight over 115 to 118 pounds;

(6)

Super-Bantamweight over 118 to 122 pounds;

(7)

Featherweight over 122 to 126 pounds;

(8)

Super-Featherweight over 126 to 130 pounds;

(9)

Lightweight over 130 to 135 pounds;

(10)

Super Lightweight over 135 to 140 pounds ;

(11)

Welterweight over 140 to 147 pounds;

(12)

Super-Welterweight over 147 to 154 pounds;

(13)

Middleweight over 154 to 160 pounds;

(14)

Super Middleweight over 160 to 168 pounds;

(15)

Light Heavyweight over 168 to 175 pounds;

(16)

Cruiserweight over 175 to 200 pounds;

(17)

Heavyweight over 200 to 225 pounds; and

(18)

Super Heavyweight over 225 pounds

If a Muay Thai contestant’s weight is greater than the specified weight in the promoter-contestant contract, the contest may not take place without special permission of the Commission.

Regulation .04 Muay Thai Contestants Equipment.Link Copy Citation

General. Each Muay Thai contestant shall use the equipment, and in the manner, specified in this regulation.

Bandage. For all weight classes, bandages shall be:

(1)

A maximum of one roll (no more than 2 inches wide and 20 yards in length) of white, soft, cloth gauze is permitted per hand;

(2)

A maximum of one roll (no more than 2 inches wide and 10 feet in length) of white athletic tape is permitted per hand, which shall:

(a)

Be placed directly on each hand for protection near the wrist;

(b)

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;

(c)

Placed between the fingers; and

(d)

Not be allowed to cover the knuckles.

(3)

Placed on a Muay Thai contestant’s hands in the dressing room in the presence of the chief second of the Muay Thai contestant’s opponent; and

(4)

Be inspected and approved by the Commission prior to the gloves being placed on the hands of the Muay Thai contestant.

Gloves. Gloves worn by each Muay Thai contestant during the contest shall:

(1)

Be open-fingered;

(2)

Conform to specifications as determined by the Commission;

(3)

Weigh 8 ounces from weight classes Mini-Flyweight to Super-Welterweight; and

(4)

Weigh 10 ounces from weight classes Middleweight to Super-Heavyweight.

A mouth guard shall be approved by the Commission.

Groin protection shall be approved by the Commission.

Regulation .05 Proper Attire and Appearance.Link Copy Citation

Rules for Shorts/trunks Worn in Competition.

(1)

Fighters shall wear shorts approved by the Commission;

(2)

Rules for male and female fighters are the same.

(3)

The hem of trunks shall not extend below the mid-thigh;

(4)

Long pants or leggings are prohibited.

(5)

Compression shorts may be worn under the approved fight trunks, but they may not extend down the leg below the bottom of the trunks.

Male fighters shall not wear any form of clothing on their upper body.

Clothing Rules for Female Fighters.

(1)

Female fighters shall wear short sleeved (above the elbow) or sleeveless form fitting rash guard and or sports bra.

(2)

No loose-fitting tops shall be allowed.

(3)

The use of breast protectors is optional for female fighters as determined by the Commission.

(4)

Female fighters shall follow the same requirements for bottom coverings as male fighters, minus the requirement for groin protection.

No clothing worn in the ring shall have exposed Velcro, clasps, pockets, zippers, or other items that may be harmful to the fighter or their opponent.

Fighters shall not wear shoes in the cage or ring.

When deemed necessary by the referee, or Commission, all fighters shall have their hair secured in a manner that does not interfere with the vision and safety of either fighter.

No object can be worn to secure the fighter’s hair which may cause injury to their opponent.

The wearing of jewelry will be strictly prohibited during all contests.

Fighters may wear an inscribed cloth, an amulet, or an inscribed charm around the upper arm or strung around the waist, but neatly wrapped and covered with cloth.

Wrapping the ankles or legs with pieces of cloth is prohibited.

If during the contest, the Pra Jiad (arm band) loosens or moves in a way that may be harmful, or a distraction, it may be removed at the discretion of the referee.

Cosmetics

(1)

Body cosmetics are any product applied to the body for cleansing, beautifying, or altering appearance and shall be prohibited during all contests.

(2)

Facial cosmetics are products used improve the appearance of the face, and. the use of such products shall be at the discretion of the Commission and/or referee.

Protective Garments.

(1)

Other than the fighter’s hands, as previously listed, there will be no taping, covering, or protective gear of any kind on the upper body, which includes but is not limited to:

(a)

Joint sleeves;

(b)

Padding; and

(c)

Any form of brace or body gauze/tape.

(2)

Ankle joint sleeves:

(a)

A fighter may use one soft neoprene type sleeves to cover each ankle joint; and

(b)

Approved sleeves may not have padding, Velcro, plastic, metal, ties, or any other material considered to be unsafe or that may create an unfair advantage.

Tape and gauze, or any materials other than the approved sleeves, are not permitted on the lower body.

The allowable length and color of sleeves shall be determined by the Commission.

A Muay Thai contestant shall have properly trimmed fingernails and toenails.

Regulation .06 Fighting Area.Link Copy Citation

A Muay Thai contest shall be held in a ring or in a fenced area.

A ring used for a Muay Thai contest shall meet the following requirements.

(1)

The ring may not be smaller than 20 feet square and may not be larger than 32 feet square within the ropes.

(2)

The ring floor shall:

(a)

Extend at least 18 inches beyond the ropes;

(b)

Be padded with Ensolite or another similar closed-cell foam, with at least a 1-inch layer of foam padding, which shall extend beyond the ring ropes and over the edge of the platform;

(c)

Have a top covering of canvas, duck, or similar material that:

(i)

Does not tend to gather in lumps or ridges; and

(ii)

Is tightly stretched and laced to the ring platform; and

(d)

Be free of any obstruction or object, including a triangular border;

(3)

The ring platform:

(a)

May not be more than 4 feet above the floor of the building; and

(b)

Shall have suitable steps for the use of the Muay Thai contestant;

(4)

The ring posts:

(a)

Shall be made of metal;

(b)

May not be more than 3 inches in diameter, extending from the floor of the building to a minimum height of 58 inches above the ring floor;

(c)

Shall be at least 18 inches away from the ring ropes; and

(d)

Shall be properly padded in a manner approved by the Commission.

(5)

The ring ropes:

(a)

Shall be five in number;

(b)

May not be less than 1 inch in diameter;

(c)

Shall be wrapped in soft material; and

(d)

Shall be at least 12 inches above the ring floor.

A fenced area used for a contest of mixed martial arts shall meet the following requirements:

(1)

The fenced area shall be circular or have at least four equal sides.

(2)

The fenced area may not be smaller than 20 feet wide and may not be larger than 32 feet wide in diameter.

(3)

The floor of the fenced area shall:

(a)

Be padded with Ensolite or another similar closed-cell foam, with at least a 1-inch layer of foam padding; and

(b)

Have a top covering of canvas, duck, or similar material that:

(i)

. Does not tend to gather in lumps or ridges; and

(4)

The platform of the fenced area:

(a)

May not be more than 4 feet above the floor of the building; and

(b)

Shall have suitable steps for the use of the Muay Thai contestants.

(5)

The fence posts of the fenced area shall be:

(a)

Made of metal, not more than 6 inches in diameter, extending from the floor of the building to between 5 and 7 feet above the floor of the fenced area; and

(b)

Properly padded in a manner approved by the Commission.

(6)

The fencing used to enclose the fenced area shall be made of a material that will prevent a Muay Thai contestant from falling out of, or breaking through, the fenced area onto the floor of the building or onto the spectators.

(7)

Any metal portion of the fenced area shall be covered and padded in a manner approved by the Commission and may not be abrasive to the Muay Thai contestant.

(8)

The fenced area shall have two entrances.

(9)

There may not be any obstruction on any part of the fence surrounding the area where Muay Thai Contestant are to be competing.

Regulation .07 Rounds.Link Copy Citation

Each round shall be 3 minutes in duration, with a 1 minute rest period between rounds.

Bouts shall ordinarily be scheduled for either three or five rounds.

When a tournament and/or another format is approved, the total number of rounds allowed to be contested in a day shall be determined by the Commission.

At the discretion of the Commission, bouts will begin after the completion of any pre-fight rituals, in accordance with Thai traditions.

Regulation .08 Referee.Link Copy Citation

The referee is the sole arbiter of a bout.

The referee and/or the ringside physician are the only individuals authorized to stop the contest, as determined by the Commission.

The referee shall confirm with the fighter that the mouthpiece is inserted and shall confirm with male fighters that a groin protector is inserted before the start of the contest.

Regulation .09 Knockdown.Link Copy Citation

In the event of a knockdown the referee shall send the standing fighter to a neutral corner and administer a mandatory eight count to the downed fighter.

When a fighter is knocked through the ropes and off the platform of the ring and onto a table or the floor by a legal blow or blows, the fighter will receive a mandatory 18 count and must be standing before the count of 20.

There is no standing eight count.

A fighter who has been knocked down cannot be saved by the bell in any round, including the final round.

Regulation .10 Method of Judging.Link Copy Citation

Judges shall consider damage, domination, and duration when evaluating the relative merits of each fighter’s performance in each round. Towards that end they shall use the following prioritized criteria to establish their score.

(1)

A fighter who has an advantage in the number or quality of knockdowns in a round shall never lose that round.

(2)

If there is no advantage in knockdowns, the fighter with a clear advantage in cumulative damage shall win the round.

(3)

If there is not a clear advantage in cumulative damage, the fighter with the greater number and/or variety of clean scoring Muay Thai techniques shall win the round.

If the criteria in §A of this regulation fails to distinguish either fighter, the round may be awarded to the fighter who was more successful in applying either aggressiveness, control or effective defense in their efforts to win the round.

All bouts will be evaluated and scored by a minimum of three judges.

The 10 Point Must System will be the standard system for scoring a bout.

(1)

Under the 10 Point Must Scoring System, ten points must be awarded to the winner of the round.

(2)

The fighter who has lost the round may be awarded nine or less points depending on the margin of advantage.

(3)

In the very rare case that neither fighter has shown even a marginal advantage, a 10-10 round may be awarded.

(4)

Partial or incomplete rounds shall be scored. If no significant action has occurred, the round shall be scored as 10-10. This is at the discretion of the judges.

(5)

Any time the referee penalizes either fighter, then the appropriate points shall be deducted when the scorekeeper calculates the final score including partial rounds.

The following objective scoring criteria shall be utilized by the judges when scoring a round:

(1)

An extremely rare 10-10 round is not a score to be used as an excuse by a judge that cannot assess the differences in the action of a round. It should only be used to score an incomplete round where nothing occurred in the round.

(2)

A round is to be scored as a 10-9 round when there is a slight or clear advantage in overall action favoring one fighter, but not an overwhelming advantage.

(3)

A round is to be scored as a 10-8 round when there is an overwhelming advantage without a knockdown, or a fighter won the round and scored a knockdown.

(4)

A round is to be scored as a 10-7 round when a fighter won the round and scored two knockdowns.

(5)

A round is to be scored as a 10-6 round when a fighter won the round and scored three knockdowns.

Regulation .11 Permissible Strikes.Link Copy Citation

The following strikes are permitted during a contest:

Punches;

Kicks;

Knees; and

Elbows.

Regulation .12 Fouls.Link Copy Citation

The following acts are prohibited:

(1)

Head butts;

(2)

Groin strikes;

(3)

Thumbing or eye gouging;

(4)

Biting;

(5)

Spiting at the opponent;

(6)

Hair pulling;

(7)

Attacks to the throat;

(8)

Striking your opponent while grounded;

(9)

Strikes directed to the back of the head or the spine;

(10)

Tripping or sweeping an opponent;

(11)

Hip, shoulder, or leg throws;

(12)

Grasping the opponent’s lower back while also forcing an opponent's spine to hyperextend;

(13)

Intentionally falling on a downed opponent, pressing elbow or knee upon the opponent;

(14)

Wrestling, back or arm locks or any similar judo or wrestling hold;

(15)

Attempting to pile-drive an opponent's head into the canvas;

(16)

Catching an opponent's kick and pushing an opponent for more than one step in any direction without attempting to deliver an attacking technique;

(17)

If a fighter’s leg is caught while kicking, the opponent may not intentionally ground themselves;

(18)

Striking a downed fighter or fighter entangled in the ropes;

(19)

Failure to obey the referee’s commands;

(20)

Striking on a break;

(21)

Striking after a bell;

(22)

Holding the ropes/cage or using the ropes/cage while striking or clinching;

(23)

Holding the opponent’s shorts;

(24)

Timidity or causing intentional delays in the action;

(25)

Unsportsmanlike behavior including use of abusive language and/or gestures; and

(26)

Attacking an opponent who is under the care of the referee.

Time Considerations for Fouls.

(1)

Low Blow.

(a)

A fighter who has been struck with a low blow as called by the referee, is allowed up to 5 minutes to recover from the foul, as long as, in the ringside physician’s opinion, the fighter may possibly continue on in the contest.

(b)

If the fighter states that they can continue before the 5 minutes of time have expired, the referee shall restart the fight as soon as practical.

(c)

If the fighter goes over the 5 minutes time allotment, the fight cannot be restarted and the contest must come to an end with the outcome determined by how the low blow occurred the round, and time in which the fight was stopped.

(2)

Eye Poke.

(a)

A fighter, who has received an eye poke as called by the referee, is allowed up to 5 minutes to recover from the foul as long as the ringside physician confirms the fighter may possibly continue in the contest once recovered.

(b)

If the fighter states that they can see and wishes to continue before the 5 minutes of time have expired, and confirmed by the ringside physician, the referee shall restart the fight as soon as practical.

(c)

If the fighter goes over the 5 minutes time allotment, the fight cannot be restarted and the contest must come to an end with the outcome determined by how the eye poke occurred, the round, and time in which the fight was stopped.

Intentional Fouls.

(1)

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

(2)

If an intentional foul causes an injury and the bout is allowed to continue, the referee shall notify the authorities and deduct two points from the fighter who caused the foul. Point deductions for intentional fouls will be mandatory.

(3)

If an injury caused by an intentional foul results in the contest being stopped in any round after half of the scheduled rounds have been completed, by either another legal or illegal strike, the judges will score the incomplete round and:

(a)

If the injured fighter is ahead on the scorecards, he shall be declared the winner by a Technical Decision; or

(b)

If the injured fighter is behind or even on the scorecards, the contest shall be declared a Technical Draw.

(4)

If a fighter injures themselves while attempting to intentionally foul their opponent, but is able to continue fighting, the referee shall take no action and treat the injury as if produced by a fair blow. If the referee determined the fighter who injured themselves is unable to continue, that fighter will lose by Technical Knockout/Knockout.

Accidental Fouls.

(1)

If an accidental foul causes an injury severe enough for the referee to terminate the bout immediately, the bout will result in either a No Contest or Disqualification if stopped before:

(a)

A completed 2 rounds of a scheduled 3 round bout; or

(b)

A completed 3 rounds of a scheduled 5 round bout.

(2)

If an accidental foul causes an injury severe enough for the referee to terminate the bout, the bout will result in a Technical Decision awarded to the fighter who is ahead on the score cards at the time the bout is stopped immediately, after:

(a)

A completed 2 rounds of a scheduled 3 round bout; or

(b)

A completed 3 rounds of a scheduled 5 round bout.

(3)

If a fighter, during the course of a round, visibly loses control of bodily function (vomit, urine, feces), the fight shall be stopped by the referee and the fighter shall lose the contest by a Technical Knockout (TKO) due to Medical Stoppage.

(a)

In the event a loss of bodily function occurs in the rest period between rounds, the ringside physician shall be called in to evaluate if the fighter can continue. If the fighter is not cleared by the ringside physician to continue, that fighter shall lose by a Technical Knockout (TKO) due to Medical Stoppage

(b)

If fecal matter becomes apparent at any time, the contest shall be halted by the referee, and the offending fighter shall lose by a Technical Knockout (TKO) due to Medical Stoppage.

Regulation .13 Result of the Contest.Link Copy Citation

The winner of the match may be decided in the following ways:

(1)

Points Decision.

(a)

Unanimous Decision—when all three judges score the bout for the same fighter;

(b)

Split Decision—when two judges score the bout for one fighter and one judge scores the bout for the opponent;

(c)

Majority Decision—when two judges score the bout for one fighter and one judge scores the bout a draw;

(d)

Technical Decision—when a bout is prematurely stopped due to injury from an accidental foul and a fighter is leading on the score cards.

(2)

Draws occur when:

(a)

Unanimous Draw—when all three judges score the bout a draw;

(b)

Majority Draw—when two judges score the bout a draw;

(c)

Split Draw—when one judge scores the bout for one fighter, one judge scores the bout for the opponent, and one judge scores the bout a draw;

(d)

Technical Draw—when an injury is sustained during competition as a result of an intentional foul and the bout is allowed to continue, then later the injury requires stoppage from either a legal or illegal strike to the affected area; and

(e)

Draw—when both fighters go down at the same time, and neither can resume the fight within the referee’s ten count.

(3)

Knockouts occur when a fighter is incapable of resuming the fight within the referee’s ten-count due to legal strikes or the referee stops the contest because a fighter cannot effectively defend themselves.

(4)

Technical Knockouts occur when:

(a)

Referee Stoppage occurs when a referee terminates a contest if:

(i)

The referee determines a fighter shows no will to or is incapable of resuming the fight due to a legal technique;

(ii)

The referee determines the fighter is not effectively defending themselves;

(iii)

The fighter does not leave their corner to take part in the fight following the sounding of the bell; or

(iv)

The referee is of the opinion that one fighter is outmatched by the opponent and continuing the match would jeopardize the fighter’s health and safety;

(v)

A fighter or their corner indicates to the referee or regulatory representative they no longer wish to continue the contest.

(b)

Medical Stoppage occurs when a ringside physician terminates a contest if:

(i)

The bout is terminated for medical reasons due to injury resulting from a legal technique.

(ii)

The bout is terminated on the advice of the ringside physician.

(iii)

There is a loss of control of bodily function.

(5)

Disqualification occurs when an injury sustained during the bout as a result of an intentional foul is severe enough to terminate the bout, multiple fouls have been assessed, interference from a fighter’s corner, and/or there is a flagrant disregard for the rules and/or referee’s commands.

No Decision/No Contest occurs when:

(1)

When a bout is prematurely stopped due to an accidental injury and a sufficient number of rounds have not been completed to render a decision via the scorecards.

(2)

If the referee decides both fighters must be disqualified.

Title 09 — Subtitle 14. State Athletic Commission

Chapter 01. General Provisions

Regulation .01 Definitions.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .02 Meetings.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .03 Affiliations.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .04 Charitable Events.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .05 Chairman.LinkCopy Citation

Chapter 02. Applications and Licensing

Regulation .01 License Required.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .02 Contestants.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .03 Managers.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .03-1 Second.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .04 Matchmaker.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .05 Promoters.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .06 Wrestlers.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .06-1 Referees.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .06-2 Judges.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .07 License Denial, Suspension, Fines, and Revocation.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .08 Failure to Respond.LinkCopy Citation

Chapter 03. Contracts and Sanctions

Regulation .01 Contract Between Manager and Contestant.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .02 Contract Between Promoter and Contestant.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .03 Commission Sanction Required.LinkCopy Citation

Chapter 04. Safety and Health Standards for Contestants

Regulation .01 Medical Examinations.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .02 Ophthalmological Evaluation.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .03 Neurological Testing.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .04 Precontest Examinations.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .05 Physician at Contest.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .06 Ringside Medical Equipment and Materials.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .07 Protection Materials.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .08 Proximity of Contest to Emergency Medical Facilities.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .09 Post-Fight Examinations.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .10 Medical Suspensions.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .11 Duties of Promoter.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .12 Female Contestant.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .13 Blood Tests.LinkCopy Citation

Chapter 05. Boxing and Kickboxing Facilities and Equipment

Regulation .01 Boxing or Kickboxing Ring.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .02 Ring Equipment.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .03 Gloves.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .04 Sanitation.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .05 Round Cards.LinkCopy Citation

Chapter 06. Conduct of Boxing Contests

Regulation .01 Weights and Classes.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .02 Scheduling of a Main Event Contest.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .03 Substitute Contestants.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .04 Boxer's Appearance.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .05 Boxer's Equipment.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .06 Boxers' Report Time.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .07 Fouls.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .08 Accidental Foul.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .09 Assessment of Penalty Points.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .10 Low-Blow Foul.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .11 Knockdown.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .12 Termination of a Contest.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .13 Judging and Scoring.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .14 Seconds.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .15 Referee's Instructions.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .16 Rounds.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .17 Public Access to Dressing Room.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .18 Reserve Boxers.LinkCopy Citation

Chapter 07. Ring Officials

Regulation .01 Authority of Commission.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .02 Assignments of Officials.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .03 Referee.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .04 Physicians.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .05 Judges.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .06 Timekeepers.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .07 Announcer.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .08 Inspectors.LinkCopy Citation

Chapter 08. Wrestling Regulations

Regulation .01 Applicability.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .02 Contestants and Substitutions.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .03 Conduct of Wrestling Contest.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .04 Physical Examinations.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .05 Records.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .06 Responsibility of Promoter.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .07 Insurance Coverage.LinkCopy Citation

Chapter 09. Control and Taxing of Tickets

Regulation .01 Definitions.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .02 Meetings.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .03 Affiliations.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .04 Charitable Events.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .05 Chairman.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .01 License Required.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .02 Contestants.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .03 Managers.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .03-1 Second.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .04 Matchmaker.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .05 Promoters.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .06 Wrestlers.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .06-1 Referees.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .06-2 Judges.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .07 License Denial, Suspension, Fines, and Revocation.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .08 Failure to Respond.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .01 Contract Between Manager and Contestant.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .02 Contract Between Promoter and Contestant.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .03 Commission Sanction Required.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .01 Medical Examinations.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .02 Ophthalmological Evaluation.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .03 Neurological Testing.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .04 Precontest Examinations.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .05 Physician at Contest.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .06 Ringside Medical Equipment and Materials.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .07 Protection Materials.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .08 Proximity of Contest to Emergency Medical Facilities.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .09 Post-Fight Examinations.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .10 Medical Suspensions.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .11 Duties of Promoter.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .12 Female Contestant.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .13 Blood Tests.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .01 Boxing or Kickboxing Ring.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .02 Ring Equipment.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .03 Gloves.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .04 Sanitation.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .05 Round Cards.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .01 Weights and Classes.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .02 Scheduling of a Main Event Contest.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .03 Substitute Contestants.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .04 Boxer's Appearance.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .05 Boxer's Equipment.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .06 Boxers' Report Time.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .07 Fouls.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .08 Accidental Foul.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .09 Assessment of Penalty Points.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .10 Low-Blow Foul.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .11 Knockdown.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .12 Termination of a Contest.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .13 Judging and Scoring.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .14 Seconds.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .15 Referee's Instructions.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .16 Rounds.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .17 Public Access to Dressing Room.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .18 Reserve Boxers.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .01 Authority of Commission.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .02 Assignments of Officials.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .03 Referee.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .04 Physicians.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .05 Judges.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .06 Timekeepers.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .07 Announcer.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .08 Inspectors.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .01 Applicability.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .02 Contestants and Substitutions.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .03 Conduct of Wrestling Contest.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .04 Physical Examinations.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .05 Records.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .06 Responsibility of Promoter.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .07 Insurance Coverage.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .01 Approval by Commission.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .02 Printing of Tickets.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .03 Ticket Manifest.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .04 Reduced Price Tickets.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .05 Complimentary Tickets.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .06 Press Passes.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .07 Commission Tickets.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .08 Commission Employee Passes.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .09 Refunds.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .10 Accounting for Tickets.Link Copy Citation