Virginia Law

Chapter 40. Virginia Professional Boxing and Wrestling Events Regulations

Part I
Scope

18VAC120-40-10. Scope.

This chapter contains procedures and requirements for the licensure of individuals and firms to engage in the conduct of professional boxing, martial arts, and wrestling events as provided for in Chapter 8.1 (§ 54.1-828 et seq.) of Title 54.1 of the Code of Virginia.

The director of the department is empowered to (i) promulgate this chapter, (ii) issue licenses, (iii) investigate to determine compliance with this chapter, and (iv) take disciplinary action, in accordance with the Virginia Administrative Process Act, against those who fail to comply with this chapter. Furthermore, to the extent applicable, this chapter shall be construed in accordance with and governed by Virginia's Administrative Process Act. The director is also empowered to contract with a vendor to perform certain tasks on the director's behalf. These tasks include examining and recommending licensure, investigating and ensuring that events are conducted in compliance with statutes and regulations, performing clerical duties, collecting fees, maintaining records, developing proposed regulations, and recommending enforcement actions.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 21, eff. August 5, 1999; amended, Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 23, eff. August 27, 2003; Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007; Volume 31, Issue 26, eff. October 1, 2015; Volume 32, Issue 25, eff. September 7, 2016.

18VAC120-40-15. Applicability.

Event licensing and conduct standards for boxing are set forth in 18VAC120-40-85 and 18VAC120-40-230 through 18VAC120-40-410. Event licensing and conduct standards for kick boxing and other similar contests, including mixed martial arts, are set forth in 18VAC120-40-85 and 18VAC120-40-411 through 18VAC120-40-411.21.

Individuals participating in wrestling events are required to be licensed as a wrestler. Requirements to obtain a wrestler license are set forth in 18VAC120-40-70 and 18VAC120-40-90. Event licensing and conduct standards for wrestling are set forth in 18VAC120-40-415 through 18VAC120-40-415.3.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 25, Issue 15, eff. May 14, 2009; Volume 32, Issue 25, eff. September 7, 2016.

Part II
General Provisions

18VAC120-40-20. Definitions.

A. Section 54.1-828 of the Code of Virginia provides definitions of the following terms:

Boxer

Boxing

Cable television system

Contractor

Department

Director

Event

Manager

Martial artist

Martial arts or mixed martial arts

Matchmaker

Person

Promote

Promoter

Regulant

Trainer, second, or cut man

Wrestler

Wrestling

B. The following words and terms when used in this chapter shall have the following meanings unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

"Assistant event inspector" means the individual assigned to assist the event inspector.

"Boxer registry" or "martial artist registry" means any entity certified by the Association of Boxing Commissions for the purposes of maintaining records and identification of boxers and martial artists.

"Charity event" means an event where all or a portion of the proceeds are donated to a charitable organization that is tax-exempt under § 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

"Contest," "bout," or "match" means the portion of an event wherein specific individuals (two boxers, two martial artists, or two or more wrestlers) engage in boxing or wrestling which ends when a decision is reached.

"Event," as defined in § 54.1-828 of the Code of Virginia, begins when a promoter takes possession or control of a facility or area as specified in the contract between the promoter and the facility and lasts until the promoter releases control of the facility or area. One event shall not exceed one 24-hour period.

"Event inspector" means the individual assigned to be in overall charge of the conduct of an event to assure compliance with this chapter.

"Event license" means a method of regulation whereby any promoter arranging or conducting a boxing or wrestling event is required to obtain a prior authorization from the department.

"Event officials" means those individuals assigned to carry out the duties of an event inspector, assistant event inspector, inspector, referee, timekeeper, judge, or ringside physician as established by this chapter.

"Firm" means any sole proprietorship, general partnership, limited partnership, limited liability company, association, corporation, or other business entity.

"Inspector" means the individual assigned to assist the event inspector as provided for in this chapter.

"Judge" means an individual assigned to score a boxing or martial arts contest as provided for in this chapter.

"Licensed event" means an event that has been issued a license from the department in accordance with this chapter.

"Rabbit punch" means a blow delivered by a boxer or martial artist against his opponent that strikes the back of the opponent's neck or head with a chopping motion or punch.

"Referee" means the event official assigned to a boxing or martial arts contest to assure the proper conduct of the contest and the safety of the contestants or the licensed wrestler assigned to a wrestling contest to assure the safety of the spectators as provided for in this chapter.

"Responsible management" means the following individuals:

1. The sole proprietor of a sole proprietorship;

2. The partners of a general partnership;

3. The general partners of a limited partnership;

4. The officers of a corporation;

5. The managers of a limited liability company; or

6. The officers and directors of an association.

"Ringside physician" means the medical doctor assigned to assure the medical health and safety of each boxer or martial artist as provided for in this chapter.

"Task force" means the professional boxing, martial arts, and wrestling task force.

"Ten point must system" means the winner of the round must receive 10 points.

"Timekeeper" means the individual assigned to time each round and the interval between rounds, and to count for knockdowns as provided for in this chapter.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 21, eff. August 5, 1999; amended, Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 23, eff. August 27, 2003; Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007; Volume 32, Issue 25, eff. September 7, 2016.

18VAC120-40-30. (Repealed.)

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 21, eff. August 5, 1999; repealed, Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 23, eff. August 27, 2003.

18VAC120-40-40. License expiration and renewal.

A. Except as set out in subsection B of this section, each license, other than an event license or a limited boxer, martial artist, or wrestler license, shall expire on December 31 of the year in which the license was issued, except that licenses issued during the last 45 days of any calendar year shall expire on December 31 of the following calendar year.

B. Each license to conduct a boxing, martial arts, or wrestling event issued to a licensed promoter shall be valid only for the duration of the event described in the application for licensure. Each limited license issued to a boxer, martial artist, or wrestler shall be valid only for the duration of one specifically identified event or two specifically identified events held on consecutive days at the same location.

C. Prior to the expiration date shown on the license, each licensee desiring to renew the license shall cause the department or its contractor to receive a photocopy of his license and the fee specified in 18VAC120-40-50.

D. The department may deny renewal of a license for the same reasons as it may refuse initial licensure or discipline a current licensee.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 21, eff. August 5, 1999; amended, Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 23, eff. August 27, 2003; Volume 22, Issue 11, eff. April 23, 2006; Volume 32, Issue 25, eff. September 7, 2016.

18VAC120-40-50. Fees.

A. Each applicant shall submit the following fee along with the application for licensure:

B. Each application for a boxing event license shall be accompanied by the following fee:

1. Scheduled events of 42 rounds or fewer, with no more than one nontitle 10-round or 12-round bout—$1,500.

2. Scheduled events exceeding 42 rounds, with more than one nontitle 10-round or 12-round bout or any event with a title bout—$2,000.

C. Each application for a wrestling event license shall be accompanied by a fee of $125.

D. All fees are nonrefundable.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 21, eff. August 5, 1999; amended, Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 23, eff. August 27, 2003; Volume 21, Issue 20, eff. August 1, 2005; Volume 22, Issue 11, eff. April 23, 2006; Volume 32, Issue 25, eff. September 7, 2016.

18VAC120-40-60. (Repealed.)

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 21, eff. August 5, 1999; amended, Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 23, eff. August 27, 2003; repealed, Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 3, eff. December 29, 2007.

18VAC120-40-70. Application requirements.

A. Applicants shall apply on forms supplied by the department or its contractor.

B. Individual applicants shall be at least 18 years of age.

C. The applicant shall disclose the following information about himself, in the case of an individual, or about the firm and every member of the responsible management of the firm, in the case of a firm:

1. Any guilty finding by the department, or by a court of any competent jurisdiction, of any material misrepresentation while engaged in boxing, martial arts, wrestling, or other athletic activities, or any conviction, guilty plea, or finding of guilty, regardless of adjudication or deferred adjudication, of any felony or non-marijuana misdemeanor;

2. Any disciplinary action taken by the department or another jurisdiction in connection with the applicant's participation in or promotion of professional athletic contests or activities including monetary penalty, fine, suspension, revocation, or surrender of a license in connection with a disciplinary action; and

3. Any currently or previously held boxing, martial arts, or wrestling licenses issued by this Commonwealth or any other jurisdiction.

Any plea of nolo contendere shall be considered a conviction for the purposes of this subsection. A certified copy of a final order, decree, or case decision by a court or regulatory agency with the lawful authority to issue such order, decree, or case decision shall be admissible as prima facie evidence of such conviction or discipline. Subject to the provisions of § 54.1-204 of the Code of Virginia, the department may deny an application for a license if, in its judgment, the actions disclosed in subdivisions 1 and 2 of this subsection would render the applicant unfit or unsuited to engage in boxing, wrestling, or other athletic activities.

D. Each individual applicant shall disclose his physical address and each firm applying for licensure shall disclose the physical addresses of the firm and the firm's responsible management. A post office box shall not be accepted in lieu of a physical address.

E. The fee established by 18VAC120-40-50 A shall accompany the application and shall not be refunded.

F. The receipt of an application and the deposit of fees in no way indicate approval by the department.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 21, eff. August 5, 1999; amended, Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 23, eff. August 27, 2003; Volume 32, Issue 25, eff. September 7, 2016; Volume 38, Issue 4, eff. December 1, 2021.

Part III
Individual Licensing Standards

18VAC120-40-80. Entry requirements for boxer and martial artist.

Each applicant for a license as a boxer or martial artist shall submit a completed application as described in 18VAC120-40-70 and shall:

1. Have a satisfactory record of professional boxing, professional martial arts, or, in the case of applicants who have participated in fewer than five professional boxing or professional martial arts bouts, evidence of competency in the elements of offense and defense. Such evidence may take the form of signed statements from individuals who have provided training to the applicant or records of the applicant's conduct in amateur as well as professional boxing or professional martial arts competition and shall be sufficient to satisfy the department that the applicant has the ability to compete.

2. Submit the following certification:

"I understand as a professional boxer or professional martial artist I should be aware that this sport includes many health and safety risks, in particular the risk of brain injury. As such I will take the necessary medical exams that detect brain injury. If I need further information about these exams I will ask my doctor or staff of the department."

3. Submit a complete professional record or, if amateur just turning professional, an amateur record, an amateur passbook recognized by USA Boxing for boxers, or a letter from the applicant's trainer certifying the applicant's boxing or martial arts experience, skill level, physical condition, and current training program.

4. Submit a certification from a licensed physician within the past six months certifying that the applicant is in good physical health and that the physician has not observed any abnormalities or deficiencies that would prevent the applicant from participation in a boxing or martial arts event or endanger the applicant, the public, officials, or other licensees participating in the event. The department may require additional medical tests to determine the fitness of a boxer or martial artist upon receipt of reliable information of a preexisting condition that may present a danger to the boxer or martial artist.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 21, eff. August 5, 1999; amended, Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 23, eff. August 27, 2003; Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007; Volume 32, Issue 25, eff. September 7, 2016.

18VAC120-40-85. Requirements for boxer, martial artist, or contestant prior to an event or contest.

Each boxer or contestant shall provide the department a negative test for the following prior to an event or contest:

1. Antibodies to the human immunodeficiency virus;

2. Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg); and

3. Antibodies of virus hepatitis C.

Such tests shall be conducted within the 180 days preceding the event. A boxer, martial artist, or contestant who fails to provide the department with the required negative test results shall not be permitted to compete in the event or contest. The provisions of this section shall not apply to participants in a wrestling or martial arts event.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 25, Issue 15, eff. May 14, 2009; amended, Virginia Register Volume 32, Issue 25, eff. September 7, 2016.

18VAC120-40-90. Entry requirements for wrestler.

A. Each applicant for a license as a wrestler shall submit a completed application as described in 18VAC120-40-70 and a statement certifying that the applicant is in good physical health, has no abnormalities or deficiencies that would prevent his participation in a wrestling event or endanger the applicant's health when engaging in a wrestling exhibition, and understands the health and safety risks involved in participation in a wrestling event and, if not previously licensed in the Commonwealth, a statement certifying his experience and training.

B. The department may deny the application for a license as a wrestler to any applicant who has suffered a serious head injury or other serious physical injury, and may, in any case, require an additional, specific medical examination to determine the applicant's suitability before approving the applicant for licensure as a wrestler.

C. The department may deny the application for a license as a wrestler of any applicant who has been subject to the following actions by agencies in other jurisdictions that regulate wrestling:

1. Denial or suspension of a license as a wrestler for reasons of medical safety when it has been determined by competent medical examination that participation in a wrestling event by the applicant may pose a risk to the applicant's health; or

2. A violation of a law or regulation governing wrestling which is substantially the same as that found in Chapter 8.1 (§ 54.1-828 et seq.) of Title 54.1 of the Code of Virginia or in this chapter.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 21, eff. August 5, 1999; amended, Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 23, eff. August 27, 2003; Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-100. Entry requirements for manager.

Each applicant for a license as a manager shall submit a completed application as described 18VAC120-40-70 and a statement that the applicant possesses a knowledge of this chapter. The department shall approve and issue all licenses in accordance with the standards established by the federal Professional Boxing Safety Act of 1996 (15 USC § 6301 et seq.), as amended.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 21, eff. August 5, 1999; amended, Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 23, eff. August 27, 2003; Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-110. Entry requirements for matchmaker.

Each applicant for a license as a matchmaker shall submit a completed application as described in 18VAC120-40-70 and a statement that the applicant does not employ and does not otherwise have a financial interest in or commercial connection with any wrestler, boxer, martial artist, manager, trainer, or second, except that which may be necessary to arrange a wrestler's, boxer's, or martial artist's participation in a specific event. The department shall approve and issue all licenses in accordance with the standards established by the federal Professional Boxing Safety Act of 1996 (15 USC § 6301 et seq.), as amended.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 21, eff. August 5, 1999; amended, Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 23, eff. August 27, 2003; Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007; Volume 32, Issue 25, eff. September 7, 2016.

18VAC120-40-120. Entry requirements for promoter.

Each applicant for a license as a promoter shall submit a completed application as described in 18VAC120-40-70, a statement that the applicant possesses knowledge of this chapter, and the following certification:

"I understand that I am not entitled to compensation in connection with a boxing or martial arts match, including gate fees, until I provide the department with a copy of any agreement in writing to which I and any boxer or martial artist participating in the match are parties; a statement made under penalty of perjury that there are no other agreements; a statement of fees, charges, and expenses that will be assessed by or through me on the boxer or martial artist, including any portion of the boxer's or martial artist's purse that I receive and training expenses; all payments, gifts, or benefits I am providing to any sanctioning organization affiliated with the event; and any reduction in the boxer's or martial artist's purse contract to a previous agreement between myself and the boxer or martial artist. Further, I understand that I am not entitled to compensation in connection with a boxing or martial artist match until I provide the boxer or martial artist I promote with the amounts of any compensation or consideration that I have contracted to receive from such match; all fees, charges, and expenses that will be assessed by or through me on the boxer or martial artist pertaining to the event, including any portion of the boxer's or martial artist's purse that I will receive and training expenses; and any reduction in a boxer's or martial artist's purse contract to a previous agreement between myself and the boxer or martial artist."

The department shall approve and issue all licenses in accordance with the standards established by the federal Professional Boxing Safety Act of 1996 (15 USC § 6301 et seq.), as amended.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 21, eff. August 5, 1999; amended, Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 23, eff. August 27, 2003; Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007; Volume 32, Issue 25, eff. September 7, 2016.

18VAC120-40-130. Entry requirements for trainer, second, or cut man.

Each applicant for a license as a trainer, second, or cut man shall submit a completed application as described in 18VAC120-40-70 and evidence of a knowledge of:

1. This chapter;

2. The treatment of injuries;

3. Physical conditioning, health care, nutrition, training, first aid, and the effects of alcohol as it relates to boxing and martial arts; and

4. The bandaging of a boxer's or martial artist's hand.

The required evidence may take the form of the applicant's official record from a state regulatory agency, signed statements from current or former client or clients, or other documentary evidence that establishes that the applicant is competent. The department shall approve and issue all licenses in accordance with the standards established by the federal Professional Boxing Safety Act of 1996 (15 USC § 6301 et seq.), as amended.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 21, eff. August 5, 1999; amended, Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 23, eff. August 27, 2003; Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007; Volume 32, Issue 25, eff. September 7, 2016.

Part IV
Official Approval and Assignment to Events

18VAC120-40-140. Requirements for approval to act as an event official.

A. To qualify to act on the department's behalf as an event official, a person must:

1. Be at least 18 years of age;

2. Not have been convicted or found guilty, regardless of adjudication, of any felony or non-marijuana misdemeanor involving lying, cheating, or stealing; illegal drugs; or other acts involving the sport of boxing or martial arts. Any plea of nolo contendere shall be considered a conviction for the purposes of this chapter. The record of conviction, authenticated in such form as to be admissible as evidence under the laws of the jurisdiction where convicted, shall be admissible as prima facie evidence of such conviction; and

3. Submit verifications from three persons of his proficiency as an event inspector, locker room inspector, referee, judge, or timekeeper, whichever is appropriate. Evidence of approval by the department, its contractor, or another jurisdiction with a regulatory program substantially equivalent to this chapter, may be submitted in lieu of the verifications from three persons.

B. In addition to requirements set forth in subsection A of this section, each referee or judge shall submit the following certification:

"I understand that I am not entitled to receive any compensation in connection with a boxing or martial arts match until I provide the department a statement of all consideration, including reimbursement for expenses that will be received from any source for participation in the match."

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 21, eff. August 5, 1999; amended, Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 23, eff. August 27, 2003; Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007; Volume 32, Issue 25, eff. September 7, 2016; Volume 38, Issue 4, eff. December 1, 2021.

18VAC120-40-150. Requirements for approval of ringside physicians.

To qualify to act on the department's behalf as a ringside physician, an applicant must provide evidence of (i) licensure by the Virginia Board of Medicine as a physician and (ii) a current certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation or osteopathic medicine.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 21, eff. August 5, 1999; amended, Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-160. Assignment to event.

A. The department or its contractor shall assign a sufficient number of event officials to each licensed event who shall discharge the duties established in this chapter and to assure compliance with Chapter 8.1 (§ 54.1-828 et seq.) of Title 54.1 of the Code of Virginia and this chapter.

B. Event officials not assigned to a licensed event shall be present at the event only upon payment of admission as a spectator.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 21, eff. August 5, 1999; amended, Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

Part V
Duties of Event Officials for Boxing, Kick Boxing and Similar Contests

18VAC120-40-170. Duties of event inspectors.

A. An event inspector shall be assigned by the department or its contractor to each event and shall be in overall charge of the conduct of the event and shall assure that all assigned inspectors, referees, timekeepers, judges, and ringside physicians are present and perform their duties.

B. The event inspector shall officiate at weigh-in to assure that all boxers or martial artists are properly weighed and licensed and shall assure that the boxers or martial artists have no weights or other objects which could influence the accuracy of the weighing.

C. The assigned event inspector shall comply with all procedures established by the department and assure compliance with Chapter 8.1 (§ 54.1-828 et seq.) of Title 54.1 of the Code of Virginia and this chapter.

D. The assistant event inspector shall perform all duties assigned by the event inspector.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 21, eff. August 5, 1999; amended, Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 23, eff. August 27, 2003; Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007; Volume 32, Issue 25, eff. September 7, 2016.

18VAC120-40-180. Duties of locker room inspectors.

A. Locker room inspectors shall be assigned to each event to assist the event inspector in the discharge of his duties.

B. Locker room inspectors shall be assigned by the event inspector to be in charge of the locker room and the corners and shall accompany the boxers or martial artists to the corner. A locker room inspector shall remain in each corner and assure compliance with this chapter.

C. A locker room inspector shall assist the event inspector during the weigh-in and, when requested, assist the ringside physician during the physical examination.

D. Locker room inspectors shall comply with all procedures established by the department and perform other duties as assigned to assure compliance with this chapter.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 21, eff. August 5, 1999; amended, Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 23, eff. August 27, 2003; Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007; Volume 32, Issue 25, eff. September 7, 2016.

18VAC120-40-190. Duties of referees.

An assigned referee shall pass a prefight physical performed by the ringside physician in accordance with 18VAC120-40-220, comply with all procedures established by the department, perform other duties as assigned to assure compliance with this chapter, and perform the following duties before, during, and after each assigned contest:

1. Provide the prefight instructions to boxers or martial artists;

2. Assure that each boxer or martial artist is properly gloved and wearing the required safety equipment;

3. Exercise supervision over the conduct of the contest to assure compliance with this chapter and to take immediate corrective action when a failure to comply is observed;

4. Immediately stop any contest when, in his judgment, one of the boxers or martial artists is outclassed by the other, injured, or otherwise unable to safely continue to participate in the contest;

5. Endeavor to perform his duties in a manner which does not impede the fair participation of either boxer or martial artist;

6. Consult, when he feels it appropriate, with the ringside physician on the advisability of stopping the contest if either boxer or martial artist appears injured or unable to continue;

7. Count for knockdowns and knockouts;

8. Determine fouls and stop contests;

9. Immediately stop any contest and notify the department's representative or contractor present at the event if one or both of the boxers or martial artists is not putting forth his best effort; and

10. Assure the health and well-being of the boxers and martial artists to the greatest extent possible.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 21, eff. August 5, 1999; amended, Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 23, eff. August 27, 2003; Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007; Volume 32, Issue 25, eff. September 7, 2016.

18VAC120-40-200. Duties of judges.

An assigned judge shall comply with all procedures established by the department, perform other duties assigned to assure compliance with this chapter, and perform the following duties before, during, and after each assigned contest:

1. Be present and attentive during the entire contest;

2. Provide his scorecards to the event inspector or his designee at the end of each round; and

3. Report to the event inspector or his designee promptly at the time directed.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 21, eff. August 5, 1999; amended, Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 23, eff. August 27, 2003; Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-210. Duties of timekeepers.

An assigned boxing or martial arts timekeeper shall comply with all procedures established by the department, perform other duties as assigned to assure compliance with this chapter, and perform the following duties before, during, and after each assigned contest:

1. Provide a chronometer of a type suitable for timing the rounds of a boxing or martial arts contest;

2. Assure that a warning is sounded 10 seconds before the start of each round by blowing a whistle or other sound easily heard by the boxers and martial artists and distinct from the sound signaling the beginning and end of each round;

3. Assure that each round and the interval between each round are correctly and uniformly timed and that a bell or gong with a distinctive tone which is easily heard by the boxers or martial artists is sounded at the beginning and end of each round;

4. Assist the referee in the counting for a knockdown to assure the downed boxer or martial artist receives the correct amount of time allowed by this chapter to return to the contest; and

5. Report to the event inspector or his designee promptly at the time directed.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 21, eff. August 5, 1999; amended, Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 23, eff. August 27, 2003; Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007; Volume 32, Issue 25, eff. September 7, 2016.

18VAC120-40-220. Duties of ringside physicians.

The assigned ringside physician shall comply with all procedures established by the department and perform the following duties before, during, and after each assigned contest:

1. Conduct a physical examination of each referee immediately before the contest to assure his fitness to act as a referee;

2. Conduct a physical examination and take a medical history of each boxer or martial artist immediately before the contest to assure his fitness to compete;

3. Report to the event inspector or his designee promptly at the time directed and remain at ringside during the entire duration of all contests assigned;

4. Signal the referee immediately in the event an injury is observed which the referee has not observed and enter the ring only after the referee has stopped or suspended the action;

5. Render immediate medical aid to any boxer or martial artist injured during a contest and, where appropriate, accompany the boxer or martial artist to the hospital or other place where competent medical aid may be delivered. In no case shall the assigned ringside physician cease the direct application of his skills as a physician to an injured boxer or martial artist until such time as the ringside physician, in his best medical judgment, determines that his services are no longer necessary or the injured boxer or martial artist is under the care of other medically competent individuals;

6. Assure all substances in the possession of seconds, trainers, or cut men are appropriate for use on boxers or martial artists during the course of the contest; and

7. Report immediately to the department or its contractor his determination of the fitness of each boxer or martial artist to participate in the boxing or martial arts contest. A written report summarizing the results of his examination of each boxer or martial artist shall be provided to the department or its contractor within 24 hours after the date of the licensed boxing or martial arts event.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 21, eff. August 5, 1999; amended, Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 23, eff. August 27, 2003; Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007; Volume 32, Issue 25, eff. September 7, 2016.

Part VI
Duties of Officials for Wrestling

18VAC120-40-221. Duties of event inspectors.

A. An event inspector may be assigned by the department or its contractor to each event and shall be in overall charge of the conduct of the event and shall assure that all assigned officials are present and perform their duties.

B. The assigned event inspector shall comply with all procedures established by the department and assure compliance with Chapter 8.1 (§ 54.1-828 et seq.) of Title 54.1 of the Code of Virginia and this chapter.

C. An assistant event inspector shall perform all duties assigned by the event inspector.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-222. Duties of locker room inspectors.

A. Locker room inspectors may be assigned to each event to assist the event inspector in the discharge of his duties.

B. Locker room inspectors shall comply with all procedures established by the department and perform other duties as assigned to assure compliance with this chapter.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

Part VII
Event Licensing and Conduct Standards for Boxing

18VAC120-40-230. Application for a license to conduct a boxing event.

A. At least 30 days before the date of any boxing event in the Commonwealth, the licensed promoter desiring to conduct the event shall deliver an application for a license to conduct a boxing event to the department or its contractor. The application shall be on forms provided by the department and shall include:

1. The card of boxing contests to be exhibited, including the name of each boxer, the boxer's federal identification number, and the number of rounds each is scheduled to compete. The promoter may modify the card at any time up to the day of the event by providing the required documents for the additions to and notice of the deletions from the card which accompanied the application;

2. Verification of all scheduled boxers' fight records;

3. The date, location, and time of the event for which a license is sought. The department will consider the size and configuration of the location and may deny approval of the event license for safety reasons;

4. Evidence that all boxers scheduled to compete are covered by a health insurance policy that covers medical expenses for injuries incurred during the boxing event, has a minimum of coverage of $50,000 and an accidental death insurance benefit coverage in a minimum amount of $50,000, and meets all requirements specified in 15 USC § 6304;

5. Evidence of a surety bond filed with the department or its contractor conditioned on the payment of gate fees and penalties imposed by Chapter 8.1 (§ 54.1-828 et seq.) of Title 54.1 of the Code of Virginia and on the fulfillment of contracts made with boxers. The bond shall be in form and substance satisfactory to the department and in an amount equal to the sum of (i) the total gate fee required by this chapter and § 54.1-833 A of the Code of Virginia if all seats were to be sold and (ii) the total amount due to all boxers for their appearance in the event. The bond shall not exceed $100,000 and shall be executed by a surety authorized to do business in the Commonwealth;

6. Acknowledgment that the boxing promoter will provide a copy of the contract between the promoter and each licensed boxer at weigh-in;

7. A copy of each contract by the promoter for the sale of rights to distribute in any manner such event by any video, telephonic, or other communication method involving the control of electrons or other charge carriers;

8. A statement that the applicant has read and understands this chapter and will conduct the event in full compliance with same; and

9. Verification of status as a charity event as defined in this chapter.

B. In no case shall the applicant for an event license announce or advertise, either directly or indirectly, the event to the public until the department has approved the application and issued the event license.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 21, eff. August 5, 1999; amended, Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 23, eff. August 27, 2003; Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-240. Equipment to be provided by boxing promoters.

The promoter shall assure that each event shall have the following:

1. A fighting ring, which shall be in the shape of a square, a hexagon, or an octagon. A square ring shall not be less than 18 feet square inside the ropes and shall not exceed 20 feet square inside the ropes. A hexagon or octagon ring shall not be less than 18 feet (from any side to the opposite side) inside the ropes and shall not exceed 32 feet (from any side to the opposite side) inside the ropes.

The ring floor shall be padded with ensolite one inch thick or another similar closed-cell foam. The padded ring floor must extend at least 18 inches beyond the ring ropes and over the edge of the platform with a top covering of canvas or similar material tightly stretched and laced to the ring platform. Material that tends to gather in lumps or ridges or material with a slick covering shall not be used.

The ring platform shall not be more than five feet above the floor of the building and shall have suitable steps for use by boxers in their corners and by the ringside physician in a neutral corner.

Ring posts shall be of metal, not more than three inches in diameter, extending from the floor of the building to a height of 58 inches above the ring floor. The ring posts must be at least 18 inches away from the ropes.

There shall be four ring ropes not less than one inch in diameter, evenly spaced, with the bottom ring rope not less than 18 inches above the ring floor and the top ring rope not more than 52 inches above the ring floor. The ring ropes must be padded with a padding of closed cell padding of not less than 1/2 inch. Ropes are to be connected with soft rope ties six feet apart. All ring ropes are to be tight and approved by the department or its contractor.

All corners must be padded with approved pads. All turnbuckles are to be covered with a protective padding.

A ring stool and bucket shall be provided for each boxer's corner.

The ring shall have bright lights and light all four corners and middle of the ring equally. No lights shall shine into the face of the boxers or ringside judges; lights may only shine downward and not shine at any angle directly into the fighting ring area that may blind the boxers or judges.

The promoter shall provide a ringside restrictive barrier between the first row of ringside seats and the event official's area that will restrict the crowd from confronting either the boxers or event officials and will ensure that the boxers remain free from obstructions or distractions. The ringside barrier must be a minimum of eight feet from the outside edge of the ring.

2. A bell or gong located at the ring no higher than the floor level of the ring. The bell or gong must produce a clear tone easily heard by the boxers.

3. Locker rooms adequate in number and equipment to reasonably facilitate the boxer's activities before and after the contest. Separate locker rooms shall be provided when both male and female boxers are scheduled to compete. Locker rooms shall have restroom facilities available.

4. A fully equipped ambulance with a currently trained ambulance crew at the site of any boxing event for the entire duration of the event and any additional personnel or equipment required by 15 USC § 6304.

5. A notice to the nearest hospital and the persons in charge of its emergency room of the date, time, and location of the boxing event.

6. Boxing gloves of the proper weight that are set by weight classification by 18VAC120-40-295. Boxing gloves must have laces to secure proper fit. Gloves must have an attached thumb to the body of the glove. Gloves must be clean, free of cuts, have good laces, with no displacement or lumping of the padding material. Gloves used in world title fights shall be new and taken from the package just prior to issuing to the boxers. Gloves shall be inspected by the event inspector or his designee before each contest and those found defective shall be replaced before the contest begins. In all championship bouts, the boxers shall be gloved in the ring. A solution of 10% household bleach and water shall be used for cleansing of all gloves prior to and after each bout.

7. A sealed OTC pregnancy test kit, approved by the Food and Drug Administration, for each female boxer that will be given to the event inspector or his designee.

8. A clear plastic water bottle, a bucket containing ice, surgeon's adhesive tape and surgical gauze for each boxer.

9. A solution of one part bleach and nine parts water for disinfecting blood on the ring canvas or ropes shall be available ringside for use by staff stationed ringside to clean the ring canvas and ropes as needed.

10. The promoter shall provide each corner with biohazardous material bags and, after the event, shall discard all regulated medical waste in the proper manner in accordance with the Regulated Medical Waste Management Regulations (9VAC20-120) issued by the Virginia Waste Management Board and available from the Department of Environmental Quality.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 21, eff. August 5, 1999; amended, Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 23, eff. August 27, 2003; Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007; Volume 25, Issue 15, eff. May 14, 2009.

18VAC120-40-250. Promoter to provide copy of contract with boxer at weigh-in; penalty for noncompliance; contents of contract.

A. The promoter shall provide a copy of his contract with each boxer scheduled to compete in the event to the event inspector at the time of weigh-in.

B. Failure to provide a copy of the contract for a boxer at weigh-in shall result in the boxer's disqualification to compete in the event.

C. Each contract shall contain the name of the promoter, the name of the boxer, the amount of compensation to be paid to the boxer by the promoter, the date, time and location of the event, weigh-in and prefight physical and shall comply with the minimum provisions contained in the most current model contract developed by the Association of Boxing Commissions and contained in the federal Professional Boxing Safety Act of 1996 (15 USC § 6301 et seq.), as amended.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 21, eff. August 5, 1999; amended, Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 23, eff. August 27, 2003; Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-260. Equipment to be provided by boxing seconds.

Each boxing second shall provide the following equipment for use at the event:

1. A solution approved by the Association of Boxing Commissions to stop hemorrhaging;

2. Scissors; and

3. One extra mouthpiece.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 21, eff. August 5, 1999; amended, Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 23, eff. August 27, 2003; Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-270. Equipment to be provided by each boxer.

Each boxer shall provide the following equipment:

1. Boxing trunks for male boxers, and boxing trunks and tight upper body covering for female boxers;

2. Approved groin protector for male boxers and approved pelvic girdle and a padded sports bra for female boxers;

3. A mouth piece properly fitted to each boxer's mouth; and

4. Boxing shoes.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 21, eff. August 5, 1999; amended, Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-280. Contest approval; request for reconsideration.

A. The department or its contractor shall obtain information on each boxer from a boxer registry and examine that information for records, experience, and consecutive losses. Boxers with 10 or more consecutive losses must obtain a special exception before being placed on the fight card. The results of the prefight physical and any other pertinent information available, including the boxing severity index, will be used to determine, to the extent possible, that both boxers are substantially equal in skill and ability and are medically fit to compete. No contest shall take place without the approval of the department or its contractor and the ringside physician assigned to the event by the department or its contractor.

B. Each boxer must possess a current personal identification number as required by 15 USC § 6305.

C. No boxer shall participate in a boxing contest who has:

1. Been knocked out in the 60 days immediately preceding the date of the contest;

2. Been technically knocked out in the 30 days preceding the date of the contest;

3. Been a contestant in a boxing bout of more than six rounds during the 15 days preceding the date of the contest or six or fewer rounds during the seven days preceding the date of the contest;

4. Suffered a cerebral hemorrhage;

5. Suffered a serious head injury or other serious physical injury. The department or its contractor may require an additional, specific medical examination to determine the boxer's suitability;

6. Been found to be blind in one eye or whose vision in one eye is so poor that a physician recommends the boxer not participate in the contest. A boxer who is totally unsighted (uncorrected vision worse than 20/400) in one or both eyes shall be prohibited from competing; or

7. Been denied a license or approval to fight by another jurisdiction for medical reasons.

D. No boxer shall participate in a boxing contest while under a suspension from the boxing commission of another jurisdiction of the United States due to:

1. A recent knockout or series of consecutive losses;

2. An injury, requirement for a medical procedure, or physician denial of eligibility to compete;

3. Failure of a test for drugs or controlled substances; or

4. The use of false aliases or falsifying, or attempting to falsify, official identification cards or documents.

E. Any promoter or boxer may request a reconsideration by the director of the event inspector's decision by immediately providing in writing additional information or contradictory evidence concerning the boxer's skill, ability, or medical fitness.

F. A boxer who is suspended by a boxing commission of another jurisdiction of the United States may be allowed to compete if:

1. The boxer was suspended for a knockout, technical knockout, series of consecutive losses, an injury, a requirement of a medical procedure, or physician denial of certification and the time interval for knockouts and technical knockouts in subsection C of this section has been met and further proof of sufficiently improved medical or physical condition has been furnished;

2. The boxer was suspended for the failure of a drug test or the use of false aliases or falsifying, or attempting to falsify, official identification cards or documents and that a suspension was not, or is no longer, merited by the facts;

3. The boxer was suspended for any reason other than those mentioned in subdivisions 1 and 2 of this subsection and the department or the department's contractor notifies the suspending commission in writing and consults with the designated official of the suspending commission prior to the grant of approval for such boxer to participate in a boxing contest; or

4. The boxer was suspended for any reason other than those mentioned in subdivisions 1 and 2 of this subsection and the boxer's appeal to the Association of Boxing Commissions results in a determination that the suspension was without sufficient grounds, was for an improper purpose, or was not related to the health and safety of the boxer or the purposes of the federal Professional Boxing Safety Act of 1996 (15 USC § 6301 et seq.).

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 21, eff. August 5, 1999; amended, Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-290. Boxing event conduct standards.

A. Wrapping of each boxer's hands shall not exceed more than one continuous winding of surgeon's adhesive tape around the wrist, not over 1-1/2 inches wide, placed directly on the hand to protect the part of the hand near the wrist. The tape may cover the hand but may not extend within 3/4 inch of the knuckles when the hand is clenched to make a fist. Soft surgical gauze, not over two inches wide, held in place by not more than six feet of surgeon's adhesive tape for each hand shall be used. Up to one 10-yard roll of surgical gauze may be used to complete the wrappings for each hand. Strips of tape may be used between the fingers to hold down the gauze, not to cover the knuckles. Gauze shall be adjusted in the locker room in the presence of the event inspector or his designee. Before putting on gloves the boxer shall present his wrapped hands for inspection by the event inspector or his designee.

B. Any boxer who has signed a contract to box on a promoter's program shall be subject to be called by the department to appear at any time to be weighed or to be examined by a physician designated by the department when the department has reason to believe the boxer may not be qualified or may not be medically sound to participate in the contest.

C. Each boxer who signs a contract to box on a promoter's program shall appear at a time and place designated by the department or its contractor to be weighed on department-approved scales in the presence of each other and a representative designated by the department. Boxers shall have all weights removed from their bodies before the weigh-in but may wear shorts in the case of males, and shorts and shirts in the case of females.

D. In accordance with 15 USC § 6304, each boxer shall be examined immediately before the contest by a ringside physician assigned to the event who certifies in writing on a form provided by the department whether the boxer is physically fit to safely compete. The original health certificate will be submitted to the event inspector or his designee. In addition, each female boxer shall take a pregnancy test in the presence of a female inspector, using the pregnancy kit required by subdivision 7 of 18VAC120-40-240 or provide the ringside physician with a negative pregnancy test result taken not more than 24 hours prior to the event. The inspector will give the results to the physician and the results will be noted on the physical form. If the physician's certification fails to certify that the boxer is physically fit to safely compete, the boxer shall not participate in the contest, and shall immediately be placed on suspension on the boxer registry. All boxers shall submit to a postfight physical if requested by the ringside physician or the department or its designee.

E. All boxing events shall be conducted in accordance with the rules set forth by the Association of Boxing Commissions. The department may use the Championship Rules adopted by the Association of Boxing Commissions in any championship fight.

F. Discretional use of petroleum jelly is permitted on the face, arms or any other part of the boxer's body. In the case of a cut, topical use of a solution approved by the Association of Boxing Commissions is permitted. All other solutions are prohibited.

G. Headgear is not permitted.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 21, eff. August 5, 1999; amended, Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 23, eff. August 27, 2003; Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-295. Weight classes and weigh-ins and prefight meeting.

A. Weight classes are as follows:

B. No boxer may engage in a contest without the approval of the department or its contractor if the difference in weight between the boxers exceeds the allowance shown in subsection A of this section.

C. If one of the two boxers in a contest is above or below the weights shown in subsection A of this section, both boxers shall wear the gloves of the higher weight.

D. Boxers shall be weighed within 24 hours prior to the scheduled event. Each boxer and second shall appear at a time and place designated by the promoter and approved by the department or its contractor to be weighed on scales approved by the department or its contractor in the presence of each other, the promoter or his representative and a designee of the department or its contractor. Boxers shall have all weight removed from their bodies before the weigh-in but may wear shorts in the case of males, and shorts and shirts in the case of females. Once weigh-ins commence, the scales shall not be moved until weigh-ins are complete.

E. When weigh-ins occur within 24 hours, but not less than 12 hours prior to the event's scheduled start time, the boxer shall not exceed the weight specified in his contract with the promoter. If a boxer exceeds the weight specified in the contract he shall not compete unless he:

1. Loses the weight exceeded in the contract at least 12 hours prior to the event's scheduled start time;

2. Loses all but two pounds of the weight exceeded in the contract at least 12 hours prior to the event's scheduled start time and loses the final two pounds at least six hours prior to the event's scheduled start time; or

3. Renegotiates the contract.

Boxers who weigh-in 24 hours prior to the scheduled event shall be required to re-weigh two hours prior to the event's scheduled start time and will not be permitted to exceed the weight specified in the contract by more than 10 pounds.

F. When weigh-ins occur less than 12 hours prior to an event's scheduled start time, the boxer shall not exceed the weight specified in the contract. No boxer shall be permitted to lose more than two pounds within 12 hours of a contest. If a boxer weighs more than two pounds over the weight specified in the contract, he shall not compete unless he:

1. Loses up to two pounds at least six hours prior to the event's scheduled start time; or

2. Renegotiates his contract.

G. The promoter is responsible for ensuring that all boxers and seconds are present at the prefight meeting. Any second who does not attend the prefight meeting will not be permitted in the corner of their boxer. All boxers will report to the event location and their locker rooms at the specified time on the night of the event. Once the boxer reports to the event facility and to the locker room he will be disqualified if he leaves the locker room before time for the bout or leaves the facility before the end of the bout.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-300. Access to boxer's locker rooms.

On the day of a contest, only the following individuals are allowed in the locker room of a boxer:

1. The boxer's licensed manager;

2. The boxer's licensed trainers, seconds, or cut men;

3. The promoter or the promoter's representatives;

4. Any representative of the department or its contractor in the conduct of his official duties; and

5. Any representative of a law-enforcement agency of competent jurisdiction while discharging his official duties.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 21, eff. August 5, 1999; amended, Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-310. Referee's instructions to boxers.

The referee shall, before starting a contest, ascertain from each boxer the name of his chief second, and shall hold the chief second responsible for the conduct of the assistant seconds during the progress of the contest. The referee shall call boxers together before each bout for final instructions, at which time each boxer shall be accompanied by his chief second only.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 21, eff. August 5, 1999; amended, Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-320. Number and conduct of seconds.

A. Before a contest begins, the chief second and other seconds shall be identified for the officials. The corner shall present the boxer, ready to compete, when the event inspector calls the boxers to the ring and shall present the boxer, ready to box, when the referee calls the boxers to the center of the ring for final instructions.

B. No boxer may have more than three seconds, except that in a world title bout, the department or its contractor may authorize up to five seconds. Seconds must appear at the official weigh-in and prefight meeting at the time and place designated by the department or its contractor.

C. All seconds must keep their shoulders below the ring floor level during the bout. Seconds are prohibited from standing up or leaning on the edge of the ring, mat or floor or slapping the ring, mat or floor while the bout is in progress, or touching the ring ropes until the bell sounds to end the round. Seconds must keep coaching volume down while the bout is in progress and are prohibited from interfering with the officials in any physical or verbal way.

D. Only one of the seconds may be inside the ring ropes between rounds and shall not enter the ring until the bell signals the end of the round. During the rest period, the second may coach his boxer; treat cuts, abrasions or swelling; and provide water, ice, approved sport drinks, or other cooling-down techniques.

E. Any excessive or undue spraying or throwing of water on any boxer by a second between rounds is prohibited. Seconds are responsible for wiping up any fluids in their corners between rounds.

F. Seconds shall not enter the ring to assist or move a boxer who has been knocked down or injured until instructed to do so by the ringside physician. Seconds shall leave the ring at the sound of the timekeeper's warning that 10 seconds remain before the start of the next round, removing all buckets, stools and other equipment promptly.

G. Throwing in the towel is not permitted by any second. If a second enters the ring during the round, the boxer shall be disqualified by the referee. Only the referee can stop the bout.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 21, eff. August 5, 1999; amended, Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-330. Length of contest and duration of round.

No boxing contest shall be scheduled for less than four rounds or more than 10 rounds . Each round of boxing shall be three minutes in duration with a one-minute rest period between rounds, except that bouts between female boxers shall consist of two-minute rounds with a one-minute rest period between rounds. The department may permit 12 rounds in male bouts involving a state, regional, national or world title championship, or elimination box off.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 21, eff. August 5, 1999; amended, Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-340. Determination of a knockdown, counting by referee during knockdowns and knockouts.

A. It shall be ruled a knockdown when, as a result of a legal blow or series of legal blows, a boxer touches the floor with any part of the body other than his feet, or is being held up by the ropes, or is hanging on, through, or over the ropes without the ability to protect himself and cannot fall to the floor. A boxer who is knocked down shall receive a minimum count of eight seconds and a maximum count of 10 seconds. The referee shall begin his count when the boxer is down or is helpless on the ropes and after the opponent is in a neutral corner. The referee may stop the counting if the opponent fails to go to the neutral corner, and resume the count where he left off when the opponent returns to the neutral corner. If the boxer rises before the count of 10 is reached and goes back down immediately without being struck by his opponent, the referee shall resume the count where he left off.

B. A boxer who leaves the ring during a round for any reason shall have a count of 20 seconds to reenter the ring unassisted and cannot be touched while out of the ring by his second or others.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 21, eff. August 5, 1999; amended, Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-342. Bout termination, knockout, technical knockout, medical suspensions.

A. A referee may terminate the count and the bout at any point when he determines that the safety of a boxer is at risk. The ringside physician may terminate the bout when, after examination of the boxer and consultation with the referee, he determines that the safety of the boxer is at risk. ]

B. When a boxer loses by way of knockout, is unable to rise by the count of 10 or, in the case of a boxer who has left the ring for any reason, before the count of 20, the department or its designee shall record in the records the letters KO (loss by knockout). A boxer losing by way of a knockout shall be placed on medical suspension by the department on the boxer registry and shall not participate in any boxing activity for a minimum period of 60 days.

C. When a cut is produced by a legal punch and the fight is stopped because of that cut, the injured boxer shall lose by technical knockout and the department or its designee shall record in the records the letters TKO (loss by technical knockout).

D. Any boxer losing by way of TKO resulting from head blows shall be placed on medical suspension by the department on the boxer registry and shall not participate in any boxing activity for a minimum of 30 days. Longer medical suspension periods may be issued for a knockout or technical knockout upon the advice of the ringside physician. The ringside physician may also request a medical suspension any time he believes it to be in the best interest of the safety of the boxer.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-350. Boxing fouls, duties of referee, and deduction of points.

A. Any of the following acts committed by a boxer during a boxing contest shall constitute a foul:

1. Hitting below the navel or behind the ear.

2. Hitting an opponent who is down or is getting up after being down.

3. Holding an opponent with one hand and hitting with the other.

4. Holding or deliberately maintaining a clinch.

5. Wrestling or kicking.

6. Striking an opponent who is helpless as a result of previous blows and so supported by the ropes that he does not fall after being instructed by the referee to a neutral corner.

7. Butting with the head or shoulder or using the knee.

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

9. Purposely going down without being hit.

10. Striking deliberately at that part of the body over the kidneys.

11. Using the rabbit punch (punch thrown to the back of the head and neck areas).

12. Jabbing the opponent's eyes with the thumb of the glove.

13. Using abusive language in the ring.

14. Engaging in any unsportsmanlike conduct including, but not limited to, a trick or other action which causes injury to an opponent.

15. Hitting on the break.

16. Hitting after the bell has sounded signaling the end of the round.

17. Hitting an opponent whose head is between or outside of the ropes.

18. Pushing an opponent about the ring or into the ropes.

19. Intentionally spitting out the mouthpiece.

20. Biting or spitting.

21. Not following referee's instructions.

22. Stepping on opponent.

23. Crouching below opponent's belt.

24. Leaving neutral corner.

25. Corner second shouting.

B. Referees are responsible for enforcing the rules of the contest and shall not permit fouls or other unfair practices which may cause an injury to a boxer. Referees shall warn each boxer who commits a foul during a boxing contest.

C. Any boxer who commits any foul after being warned by the referee may have points deducted by the referee or may lose the contest by disqualification by the referee.

D. Boxers who commit fouls or any other infraction may be penalized by the referee through the deduction of points from his score. The number of points to be deducted shall be determined by the referee based on his determination of the severity of the foul and its adverse effect on the opponent and shall be reported to the judges and both boxers as soon as practical. The points shall be deducted from the score of the round in which the fouls were committed.

E. The referee shall stop a contest when he determines that a foul has occurred and determine whether the fouled boxer is able to continue. The referee may order the contest suspended for a reasonable period of time, not to exceed five minutes, to allow the fouled boxer to recover if the referee determines the boxer's chance of winning has not been seriously jeopardized. The referee shall inform the event inspector or his designee of his determination that the foul was accidental.

F. The referee shall stop a contest when he determines that an injury resulting from an accidental foul is so severe as to adversely affect the fouled boxer's chances of winning. The contest shall be a draw if the accidental foul occurs during the first four rounds. The contest shall be determined by a tabulation of the scores of the completed rounds if the accidental foul occurs after the fourth round in a contest or more than four rounds.

G. The referee shall stop a contest when he determines that an injury resulting from an accidental foul has been aggravated by fair blows. The outcome of the contest shall be determined by scoring the completed rounds.

H. If a boxer commits an intentional foul in the ring and the foul causes an injury severe enough to terminate the bout immediately, the boxer causing the injury shall lose by disqualification. If an intentional foul causes an injury and the bout is allowed to continue, the referee will notify the event inspector and deduct two points from the boxer who caused the foul. Point deductions for intentional fouls are mandatory. If an intentional foul causes an injury and the injury results in the bout being stopped in a later round, the injured boxer will win by technical decision if he is ahead on the score cards or the bout will result in a technical draw if the injured boxer is behind or even on the score cards. If no action has occurred, the round should be scored as an even round. If the boxer injures himself while attempting to intentionally foul his opponent, the referee will not take any action in his favor, and the injury will be the same as one produced by a fair blow.

I. If the boxer conducts himself in an unsportsmanlike manner, the referee may stop the bout and disqualify the boxer.

J. If a boxer is injured by an accidental foul and the injury is severe enough for the referee to stop the bout immediately, the bout will result in a no decision if stopped before three completed rounds in bouts scheduled for four rounds. Rounds are complete when the bell rings signifying the end of the round. If a bout is scheduled for more than four rounds, the bout will result in a no decision if stopped before four completed rounds.

K. If the boxer is injured by an accidental foul that causes an injury severe enough for the referee to stop the bout immediately, the bout will result in a technical decision awarded to the boxer who is ahead on the score cards if the bout is stopped after three completed rounds in bouts scheduled for four rounds. If a bout is scheduled for more than four rounds and four rounds are completed, the bout will result in a technical decision, awarded to the boxer who is ahead on the score cards at the time the bout is stopped.

L. If a boxer is hit with an accidental low blow, he must be able to rise by the count of 10 and to continue after a reasonable amount of time not to exceed five minutes or he will lose the bout.

M. Disqualification for fouls to the body may occur if the fouls are flagrant or continual. The referee may order a deduction of points for any illegal blow to the body and may, at his discretion, give a rest period of up to five minutes for the injured boxer to recover. The referee may ask the ringside physician to examine the boxer before granting the rest period. If the referee rules the foul accidental and the injured boxer is unable to continue after the five minute rest period, the rules governing accidental fouls shall apply.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 21, eff. August 5, 1999; amended, Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 23, eff. August 27, 2003; Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-360. Scoring of boxing contest, decisions, and announcement of decisions.

A. Each contest shall be scored by the judges approved and assigned by the department or its contractor. The referee will not score the contest. The scoring will be done on the 10 point must system. Judges will score each round based on clean punches (power versus quantity), effective aggressiveness, ring generalship, and defense. In a bout that is stopped in the middle of the round, the judges shall score all incomplete or partial rounds as if they were a complete round. Judges may deduct points for knockdowns only when they are called as such by the referee and for fouls when they are instructed to do so by the referee. Judges should avoid scoring a round even. At the end of each round, the score cards shall be presented to the event inspector or his designee who shall examine the score cards. The winner shall be the boxer who receives the highest score from the majority of the judges at the end of the contest. The contest is a draw if neither boxer scores so as to obtain a majority.

B. When the event inspector has examined the score cards and checked them for accuracy, he shall inform the ring announcer of the decision.

C. The department shall not change a decision rendered at the end of any boxing contest unless:

1. It is determined that there has been wrongful or illegal collusion affecting the result of the contest;

2. An error is found in the compilation of the scorecards resulting in the decision favoring the wrong boxer; or

3. The department determines through investigation that there was a violation of this chapter which adversely impacted on the fairness of the contest or the decision.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 21, eff. August 5, 1999; amended, Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-370. (Repealed.)

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 21, eff. August 5, 1999; repealed, Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-380. (Repealed.)

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 21, eff. August 5, 1999; amended, Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 23, eff. August 27, 2003; repealed, Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-385. Rules for elimination boxing contest only.

This section governs elimination boxing contests only. To the extent any of the provisions of this section conflict with 18VAC120-40-230 through 18VAC120-40-410, the provisions of this section shall apply.

1. A boxer shall not be permitted to compete if he has a personal identification number as required by 15 USC § 6305.

2. A bout shall consist of three one-minute rounds with a one-minute rest period between rounds.

3. The standing eight count will be used. The three knockdown in any round rule will be in effect. If a fighter is knocked down four times in the bout, it shall be ruled as a technical knockout. No boxer shall be saved by the bell.

4. No boxer shall compete in more than five bouts in two days and three bouts in one day and must have a minimum rest period of 60 minutes between bouts.

5. No boxer shall be permitted to participate in any contest if he has been knocked out or technically knocked out within 60 days immediately preceding the contest.

6. No boxer shall be permitted to participate in an event within 30 days of his last event.

7. No boxer taking prescribed medication of any type shall be permitted to participate in any contest without approval from the ringside physician at the time of the physical. No boxer shall be permitted to participate who is under the influence of an illegal substance or who has consumed any type of alcoholic beverage within 24 hours of the scheduled contest. After the physical, a boxer shall be permitted to drink water only prior to the contest.

8. All boxers shall be required to wear headgear and have fitted mouth pieces during the bout. Male boxers shall wear an approved groin protector and female boxers shall wear an approved pelvic girdle and have a minimum requirement of a padded sports bra. The promoter is responsible for providing boxing gloves, groin protectors for males and pelvic girdles for females that shall be clean, free from cuts and with no displacements or lumping of padded material. Headgear shall meet minimum requirements set by USA Boxing. Dipped style, sparring and thin padded training/sparring headgear will not be allowed.

9. No bouts with a weight difference of more than 20 pounds shall approved with the exception of heavyweights (190 pounds and above) where this is no limit to weight differential.

10. All gloves used shall be a minimum of 16 ounces.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-390. Reporting the results of boxing contests.

Not later than two business days after the conclusion of a boxing match, the department or its contractor shall report the results of such boxing match and any related ineligibility to compete in boxing contests to each boxer registry as required by the federal Professional Boxing Safety Act of 1996 (15 USC § 6301 et seq.), as amended.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 21, eff. August 5, 1999; amended, Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-400. (Repealed.)

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 21, eff. August 5, 1999; amended, Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 23, eff. August 27, 2003; repealed, Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-410. Promoter to allow access to event and event facilities.

A. The department may assign one or more representatives to each event to evaluate the contractor's performance or to assure compliance with Chapter 8.1 (§ 54.1-828 et seq.) of Title 54.1 of the Code of Virginia and this chapter.

B. All event officials and representatives of the department assigned to an event, whether to monitor the contractor's performance or for any other authorized purpose, shall be granted immediate access by the promoter and the promoter's representatives to the licensed event and to any area or portion of the event facilities.

C. The promoter is responsible for security of the locker room area and shall not permit access except as specified in 18VAC120-40-300.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 21, eff. August 5, 1999; amended, Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

Part VIII
Event Licensing and Conduct Standards for Kick Boxing and Any Similar Contests

18VAC120-40-411. Application for a license to conduct a kick boxing event or similar contest.

A. At least 30 days before the date of any kick boxing or similar contest in the Commonwealth, the licensed promoter desiring to conduct the event shall deliver an application for a license to conduct a kick boxing event or similar contest to the department or its contractor. The application shall be on forms provided by the department and shall include:

1. The card of the contest to be exhibited, including the name of each contestant and the number of rounds each is scheduled to compete. The promoter may modify the card at any time up to the day of the event by providing the required documents for the additions to and the notice of the deletions from the card that accompanied the application.

2. Verification of all scheduled contestants' fight records and location of the contestants last five fights.

3. The date, location, and time of the event for which a license is sought. The department will consider the size and configuration of the location and may deny approval of the event license for safety reasons.

4. Evidence that all contestants scheduled to compete are covered by a health insurance policy that covers expenses for injuries incurred during the event and has a minimum coverage of $50,000 and an accidental death insurance benefit coverage in the minimum amount of $50,000.

5. Evidence of a surety bond filed with the department or its contractor conditioned on the payment of gate fees and penalties imposed by Chapter 8.1 (§ 54.1-828 et seq.) of Title 54.1 of the Code of Virginia and on the fulfillment of the contracts made with the contestants. The bond shall be in form and substance satisfactory to the department and in an amount equal to the sum of (i) the total gate fee required by this chapter and § 54.1-833 A of the Code of Virginia if all seats were to be sold and (ii) the total amount due to all contestants for their appearance in the event. The bond shall not exceed $100,000 and shall be executed by a surety authorized to do business in the Commonwealth.

6. Acknowledgment that the promoter will provide a copy of the contract between the promoter and each of the contestants licensed at weigh-in.

7. A copy of each contract by the promoter for the sale of the rights to distribute in any manner such event by any video, telephonic, or other communication method involving the control of electrons or other charge carriers.

8. A statement that the applicant has read and understands this chapter and will conduct the event in full compliance with same.

9. Verification of status as a charity event as defined in this chapter.

B. In no case shall the applicant for an event license announce or advertise, either directly or indirectly, the event to the public until the department has approved the application and issued the event license.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-411.1. Equipment to be provided by promoters.

The promoter shall assure that each event shall have the following:

1. A fighting ring that will be in the shape of a square, a hexagon, or an octagon. A square ring shall not be less than 18 feet square inside the ropes and shall not exceed 20 feet square inside the ropes. A hexagon or octagon ring shall not be less than 18 feet (from any side to the opposite side) inside the ropes and shall not exceed 32 feet (from any side to the opposite side) inside the ropes.

The ring floor shall be padded with ensolite one inch thick or another similar closed-cell foam. The padded ring floor must extend at least 18 inches beyond the ropes and over the edge of the platform with a top covering of canvas or other similar material tightly stretched and laced to the ring platform. Material that tends to gather in lumps or ridges shall not be used.

The ring platform shall not be more than five feet above the floor of the building and shall have suitable steps for use of the contestants in their corners and by the ringside physician in a neutral corner.

Ring posts shall be of metal, not more than three inches in diameter, extending from the floor of the building to a height of 58 inches above the ring floor. The ring posts shall be at least 18 inches away from the ring ropes.

There shall be four ring ropes, no more than one inch in diameter, evenly spaced, with the bottom ring rope not less than 18 inches above the ring floor and the top ring rope not more than 52 inches above the ring floor. The bottom ring rope must be padded with a padding of closed cell padding of not less than 1/2 inch (it is recommended that all ring roped be padded of the same thickness and material). Ropes are to be connected with soft rope ties six feet apart. All ring ropes are to be tight and approved.

All corners must be padded with approved pads. All turnbuckles are to be covered with a protective padding.

A ring stool and bucket shall be provided for each contestant's corner. The ring shall have bright lights and light all four corners and middle of the ring equally. No lights shall shine into the face of the contestants or ringside judges, lights may only shine downward and not shine at any angle directly into the fighting ring area that may blind the contestants or judges.

The promoter shall provide a ringside restrictive barrier between the first row of ringside seats and the event official's area that will prevent the crowd from confronting either the contestants or event officials. The ringside barrier must be a minimum of eight feet from the outside edge of the ring.

2. A bell or gong located at the ring no higher than the floor level of the ring. The bell or gong must produce a clear tone easily heard by the contestants.

3. Locker rooms adequate in number and equipment to reasonably facilitate the contestant's activities before and after the contest. Separate locker rooms shall be provided when both male and female contestants are scheduled to compete. Locker rooms shall have restroom facilities easily available.

4. A fully equipped ambulance with a currently trained ambulance crew at the site of any event for the entire duration of the event.

5. A notice to the nearest hospital and the persons in charge of its emergency room of the date, time, and location of event.

6. Gloves of the proper weight that are set by weight classification by rule. Gloves must have laces to secure proper fit. Gloves must have an attached thumb to the body of the glove. Gloves must be clean, free of cuts, and have good laces, with no displacement or lumping of padding material. Gloves used in world title fights shall be new and taken from the package just prior to issuing to the contestants. Gloves shall be inspected by the event inspector or his designee before each contest and those found defective shall be replaced before the contest.

7. A clear plastic water bottle, a bucket containing ice, surgeon's adhesive tape, and surgical gauze for each contestant.

8. A sealed over-the-counter pregnancy test kit, approved by the Food and Drug Administration, for each female boxer that will be given to the event inspector or his designee.

9. A solution of one part bleach and nine parts water for disinfecting blood on the ring canvas or ropes shall be available ringside for use by staff stationed ringside to clean the ring canvas and ropes as needed.

10. The promoter shall provide each corner with biohazardous material bags and, after the event, shall discard all regulated medical waste in the proper manner in accordance with the Regulated Medical Waste Management Regulations (9VAC20-120) issued by the Virginia Waste Management Board and available from the Department of Environmental Quality.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 25, Issue 15, eff. May 14, 2009; Volume 32, Issue 25, eff. September 7, 2016.

18VAC120-40-411.2. Promoter to provide copy of contract with contestants at weigh-in; penalty for noncompliance; contents of contract.

A. The promoter shall provide a copy of his contract with each contestant scheduled to compete in the event to the event inspector at the time of the weigh-in.

B. Failure to provide a copy of the contract for a contestant at the weigh-in shall result in the contestant's disqualification to compete in the event.

C. Each contract shall contain the name of the promoter, the name of the contestant, the amount of compensation to be paid to the contestant by the promoter, the date, time and location of the event, weigh-in, and prefight physical and shall comply with the minimum provisions contained in the most current model contract developed by the Association of Boxing Commissions and contained in the federal Professional Boxing Safety Act of 1996 (15 USC § 6301 et seq.).

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-411.3. Equipment to be provided by seconds.

Each second shall provide the following equipment for use at the event:

1. A solution approved by the Association of Boxing Commissions to stop hemorrhaging;

2. Scissors; and

3. One extra mouthpiece.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-411.4. Equipment to be provided by each contestant.

Each contestant shall provide the following equipment:

1. Trunks for male contestants (two pair shorts for mixed martial arts, one being tight fitting) or long pants if required and trunks with tight upper body covering for female contestants;

2. Approved groin protector for male contestants and approved pelvic girdle and a padded sports bra for female contestants;

3. A mouth piece properly fitted to each contestant's mouth;

4. Foot pads when required; and

5. Shin pads when required.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-411.5. Contest approval; request for reconsideration.

A. The department or its contractor shall obtain information on each contestant from a martial arts registry and examine that information, for records, experience, and consecutive losses. Boxers or martial artists with 10 or more consecutive losses must obtain a special exception before being placed on the fight card. The results of the prefight physical, and any other pertinent information available including the boxing or martial arts severity index, will be used to determine, to the extent possible, that both contestants are substantially equal in skills and ability and are medically fit to compete. No contest shall take place without the approval of the event inspector and the ringside physician assigned to the event by the department or its contractor.

B. No contestant shall participate in a contest who has:

1. Been knocked out in the 60 days immediately preceding the date of the contest;

2. Been technically knocked out in the 30 days preceding the date of the contest;

3. Been a contestant in a boxing, kick boxing, or martial arts event of more than six rounds during the 15 days preceding the date of the contest or six or fewer rounds during the seven days preceding the date of the contest;

4. Suffered a cerebral hemorrhage;

5. Suffered a serious head injury or other serious physical injury. The department or its contractor may require an additional, specific medical examination to determine the contestant's suitability;

6. Been found to be blind in one eye or whose vision in one eye is so poor that a physician recommends the contestant not participate in the contest. A boxer or martial artist who is totally unsighted (uncorrected vision worse that 20/400) in one or both eyes shall be prohibited from competing; or

7. Been denied a license or approval to fight by another jurisdiction for medical reasons.

C. No contestant shall participant in an event while under suspension from a commission of another jurisdiction of the United States due to:

1. A recent knockout or series of consecutive losses;

2. An injury, requirement for a medical procedure, or physician denial of eligibility to compete;

3. Failure of a test for drugs or controlled substances; or

4. The use of false aliases or falsifying, or attempting to falsify, official identification cards or documents.

D. Any promoter or contestant may request reconsideration by the director of the event inspector's decision by immediately providing in writing additional information or contradictory evidence concerning the contestant's skill, ability, or medical fitness.

E. A contestant who is suspended by a commission of another jurisdiction of the United States may be allowed to compete if:

1. The contestant was suspended for a knockout, technical knockout, series of consecutive loses, an injury, a requirement of a medical procedure, or physician denial of certification and the time interval for knockouts and technical knockouts in subsection B of this section has been met and further proof of sufficiently improved medical or physical condition has been furnished;

2. The contestant was suspended for the failure of a drug test or the use of false aliases or falsifying, or attempting to falsify, official identification cards or documents and that a suspension was not, or is no longer, merited by the facts; or

3. The contestant was suspended for any reason other than those mentioned in subdivisions 1 and 2 of this subsection and the department or the department's contractor notifies the suspending commission in writing and consults with the designated official of the suspending commission prior to the grant of approval for such contestant to participate in a contest.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 32, Issue 25, eff. September 7, 2016.

18VAC120-40-411.6. Event conduct standards for kick boxing and other similar contests.

A. Bandaging of each contestant's hands shall not exceed one roll of surgeon's adhesive tape, not over 1-1/2 inches wide, placed directly on the hand to protect the part of the hand near the wrist. The tape may cover the hand but not extend within 3/4 inch of the knuckles when the hand is clenched to make a fist. Soft surgical bandage, not over two inches wide, held in place by not more than six feet of surgeon's adhesive tape for each hand shall be used. Up to one 10-yard roll of bandage may be used to complete the wrappings for each hand. Strips of tape may be used between the fingers to hold down the bandages, not to cover the knuckles. Bandages shall be adjusted in the locker room in the presence of the event inspector or his designee.

B. Any contestant who has signed a contract to compete on a promoter's program shall be subject to be called by the department to appear at any time to be weighed or to be examined by a physician designated by the department when the department has reason to believe the contestant may not be qualified or may not be medically sound to participate in the contest.

C. Each contestant who signs a contract to compete on a promoter's program shall appear at a time and place designated by the department or its contractor to be weighed on department-approved scales in the presence of each other and a representative designated by the department. Contestants shall have all weights removed from their bodies before the weigh-in but may wear shorts in the case of males, and shorts and shirts in the case of females.

D. Each contestant shall be examined immediately before the contest by a ringside physician assigned to the event who certifies in writing on a form provided by the department whether the contestant is physically fit to safely compete. The original health certificate will be submitted to the event inspector or his designee. In addition, each female contestant shall take a pregnancy test in the presence of a female inspector, using the pregnancy kit required by subdivision 8 of 18VAC120-40-411.1 or provide the ringside physician with a negative pregnancy test result taken not more than 24 hours prior to the event. The inspector will give the results to the physician and the results will be noted on the physical form. If the physician's certification fails to certify that the contestant is physically fit to safely compete, the contestant shall not participate in the contests. All contestants shall submit to a postfight physical if requested by the ringside physician or the department or its designee.

E. Discretional use of petroleum jelly is permitted on the face, arms or any other part of the body. In the case of a cut, topical use of a solution approved by the Association of Boxing commissions is permitted. All other solutions are prohibited.

F. Headgear is not permitted.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-411.7. Weight classes, weigh-ins and prefight meeting.

A. Weight classes are as follows:

B. No contestant may engage in a contest without the approval of the department or its contractor if the difference in weight between the contestants exceeds the allowance in subsection A of this section.

C. If one of the two contestants in a contest is above or below the weights shown in subsection A of this section, both contestants shall wear the gloves of the higher weight.

D. When weigh-ins occur within 24 hours, but not less than 12 hours prior to the event's scheduled start time, the contestant shall not exceed the weight specified in his contract with the promoter. If a contestant exceeds the weight specified in the contract he shall not compete unless he:

1. Loses the weight exceeded in the contract at least 12 hours prior to the event's scheduled start time;

2. Loses all but two pounds of the weight exceeded in the contract at least 12 hours prior to the event's scheduled start time and loses the final two pounds at least six hours prior to the event's scheduled start time; or

3. Renegotiates the contract.

Contestants who weigh-in 24 hours prior to the scheduled event shall be required to re-weigh two hours prior to the event's scheduled start time and will not be permitted to exceed the weight specified in the contract by more than 10 pounds.

E. When weigh-ins occur less than 12 hours prior to an event's scheduled start time, the contestant shall not exceed the weight specified in the contract. No contestant shall be permitted to lose more than two pounds within 12 hours of a contest. If a contestant weighs more than two pounds over the weight specified in the contract, he shall not compete unless he:

1. Loses up to two pounds at least six hours prior to the event's scheduled start time; or

2. Renegotiates his contract.

F. All contestants and their seconds must be present at the official weigh-in. The time, date, and location of the weigh-in will be approved by the department. Contestants will be allowed to witness their opponent's weigh-in. All contestants and their seconds must be present at the prefight meeting. Any second who does not attend the prefight meeting will not be permitted in the corner of their contestant.

G. All contestants will report to the event location and their locker rooms at the specified time on the night of the event. Once the contestant reports to the event facility and to the locker room he will be disqualified if he leaves the locker room before time for the bout or leaves the facility before the end of the bout.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 32, Issue 25, eff. September 7, 2016.

18VAC120-40-411.8. Access to contestant's locker rooms.

On the day of the contest, only the following individuals are allowed in the locker room of a contestant:

1. The contestant's licensed manager;

2. The contestant's licensed trainers, seconds, or cut men;

3. The promoter or the promoter's representatives;

4. Any representative of the department or its contractor in the conduct of his official duties; and

5. Any representative of a law-enforcement agency of competent jurisdiction while discharging his official duties.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-411.9. Referee's instructions to contestants.

The referee shall, before starting the contest, ascertain from each contestant the name of his chief second, and shall hold the chief second responsible for the conduct of the assistant seconds during the progress of the contest. The referee shall call contestants together before each bout for final instructions, at which time each contestant shall be accompanied by his chief second only.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-411.10. Number and conduct of seconds.

A. No contestant shall have more than three seconds.

B. All seconds must keep their shoulders below the ring floor level during the bout. Seconds are prohibited from standing up or leaning on the edge of the ring, mat or floor or slapping the ring, mat or floor while the bout is in progress, or touching the ring ropes until the bell sounds to end the round. Seconds must keep coaching volume down while the bout is in progress and are prohibited from negatively interfering with the officials in any physical or verbal way.

C. Only one second may be inside of the ring ropes between rounds.

D. Any excessive or undue spraying or throwing of water on any contestant by a second between rounds is prohibited. Seconds are responsible for wiping up any fluids in their corners between rounds.

E. Seconds shall not enter the ring until the bell signals the end of the round. Seconds shall leave the ring at the sound of the timekeeper's warning that 10 seconds remain before the start of the next round, removing all buckets, stools and other equipment promptly.

F. Seconds shall not use Monsol's solution, alcoholic beverages, stimulants, or other substances not approved by the department or its contractor during any contest.

G. Throwing in the towel is not permitted by any second. If a second enters the ring during the round, the contestant shall be disqualified by the referee. The referee is the only person who can stop the bout.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-411.11. Length of contest and duration of round.

In events where only kicks above the waist are allowed, the rounds shall be two minutes in length with a one-minute rest period between the rounds. In all other events the rounds shall be three minutes in length with a one-minute rest period between rounds. In mixed martial arts events, the rounds shall be five minutes in length with a one-minute rest period between rounds.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-411.12. Counting by referee during knockdowns and knockouts, determination of a knockdown.

A. A contestant who is knocked from his feet by a blow (leg sweeps and tripping are not considered blows) from his opponent may receive a count of 10 seconds from the referee. The count shall begin when the contestant is down or helpless on the ropes and after the opponent is in a neutral corner. If the contestant is unable or unwilling to reenter the contest before the count of 10, the referee shall rule a knockout and the contestant's opponent shall win the contest.

B. The referee may, at his discretion, administer an eight count to a contestant who has been stunned, but who remains standing. The referee will direct the contestant's opponent to a neutral corner, then begin the count, examining the stunned contestant during the count. If, after completing the standing eight count, the referee determines the contestant is able to continue, the bout shall resume. If the referee determines the contestant is not able to continue, the referee will stop the contest and declare the contestant's opponent the winner by technical knockout.

C. The referee shall administer a mandatory eight count to a contestant who is knocked down.

D. A contestant who leaves the ring during a round for any reason shall have a count of up to 20 seconds to reenter the ring unassisted and cannot be touched while out of the ring by his second or others. If the contestant does not reenter the ring before the count of 20, the contestant's opponent shall win the contest.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-411.13. Fouls, duties of the referee, and deduction of points.

A. The following are considered fouls:

1. Head butts.

2. Punches to the back of the head.

3. Striking to the spine area.

4. Slapping (striking with the lace side of the glove).

5. Spitting.

6. Biting.

7. Holding the opponent's head or arm and hitting, unless permitted by this chapter.

8. Knee strikes unless permitted by this chapter.

9. Strikes to the knees.

10. Elbow and forearm strikes unless permitted by this chapter.

11. Palm heel strikes.

12. Joint attacks.

13. Take downs, throwing or grappling unless permitted by this chapter.

14. Clubbing.

15. Strikes to the groin area.

16. Spinning sweeps (boot to boot sweeps are allowed as long as the user does not spin).

17. Karate chopping style strikes.

18. Striking the opponent while he has slipped or fallen to one knee or more.

19. Using abusive language.

20. Attacking on the break.

21. Striking after the bell that had indicated the end of the round.

22. Pushing or shoving unless permitted by this chapter.

23. Grabbing or holding onto an opponents leg, foot, or any other part of the body unless permitted by this chapter.

24. Spinning forearm or elbow. A spinning backhand is allowed. It must strike with the legal striking area of the glove. This portion is limited to the tapeline at the wrist to the end of the glove. It does not include either side of the glove or wrist.

B. Referees are responsible for enforcing the rules of the contest and shall not permit fouls or other unfair practices that may cause an injury to a contestant. Referees shall warn contestants who commit fouls during the contest.

C. If a contestant commits a foul in the ring, the referee shall have the discretion to determine the following:

1. Give the contestant who has fouled a warning.

2. Deduct one to three points from the contestant who committed the foul. The number of points to be deducted shall be determined by the referee based on his determination of the severity of the foul and its adverse effect on the opponent and shall be reported to the judges and both contestants as soon as practical. The points shall be deducted from the score of the round in which the fouls were committed.

3. Disqualify the contestant who committed the foul.

D. Any contestant who commits a foul after being warned by the referee may have points deducted by the referee or may lose the contest by disqualification by the referee.

E. The referee shall stop the contest when he determines that a foul has occurred and determine whether the fouled contestant is able to continue. The referee may order the contest suspended for a reasonable period of time to allow the fouled contestant to recover if the referee determines the contestant's chance of winning has not been seriously jeopardized.

F. The referee shall inform the event inspector or his designee of any accidental foul. The referee shall stop a contest when it is determined that an injury resulting from an accidental foul is so severe as to adversely affect the fouled contestant's chances of winning. Except as provided in subsection H of this section, the contest shall be a draw if the accidental foul occurs during the first four rounds of a bout scheduled for more than four rounds or before the half-way point of a bout scheduled for four rounds or less. The contest shall be determined by a tabulation of the scores of the completed rounds if after the fourth round of a bout scheduled for more than four rounds or after the middle of a bout scheduled for four rounds or less.

G. The referee shall stop a contest when it is determined that an injury resulting from an accidental foul has been aggravated by fair blows. The outcome of the contest shall be determined by scoring the completed rounds.

H. If the contestant who committed the foul knocks out or causes injury to his opponent and the opponent is unable to continue the bout, the referee will stop the bout. The judges' score cards will be totaled and the decision of the bout will be announced. If the foul is committed in the first round and the fouled contestant cannot continue, the contestant who fouled will be automatically disqualified.

I. If a contestant is injured from a foul and the bout continues but is later stopped in any round after the first round because of additional injury to the fouled area, the judges' score cards will be totaled. If the contestant who committed the foul is ahead on the score cards the bout will end in a technical draw. If the contestant who was fouled is ahead, he will be awarded a technical win.

J. If a contestant becomes injured by something other than a foul or legal strike and the injury occurs in the first round, the bout shall be stopped and declared a no contest. If the injury occurs in the second round or beyond the judges will be asked to score the portion of the round. All judges score cards will be collected and tallied. If the injured contestant is ahead on the score cards he will be awarded a technical draw. If the noninjured contestant is ahead on the score cards he will be awarded a technical knockout (TKO).

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-411.14. Scoring of contest, decisions and announcements of decisions.

A. Each contest shall be scored by the judges assigned by the department or its contractor. At the end of each round, the score and the score cards shall be presented to the event inspector or his designee who shall examine the score cards. At the end of the contest, the winner shall be the contestant who receives the highest score of the majority of the judges except as provided in 18VAC120-40-411.13. The contest is a draw if neither contestant scores so as to obtain a majority.

B. When the event inspector has examined the score cards and checked them for accuracy, he will inform the ring announcer of the decision.

C. The department shall not change a decision rendered at the end of any contest unless:

1. It is determined that there has been wrongful or illegal collusion affecting the results of the contest;

2. An error is found in the compilation of the score cards that shows that the decision favored the wrong contestant; or

3. The department determines through investigation there was a violation of this chapter that adversely impacted on the fairness of the contest or decision.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-411.15. Promoter to allow access to event and facilities.

A. The department may assign one or more representatives to each event to evaluate the contractor's performance or to assure compliance with Chapter 8.1 (§ 54.1-828 et seq.) of Title 54.1 of the Code of Virginia and this chapter.

B. All event officials and representatives of the department assigned to an event, whether to monitor the contractor's performance or for any other authorized purpose, shall be granted immediate access by the promoter and the promoter's representatives to the licensed event and to any area or portion of the event facilities.

C. The promoter is responsible for security of the locker room area and shall not permit access except as specified in 18VAC120-40-411.8.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-411.16. Full contact rules.

A. All legal kicks and punches must be above the waist of each contestant.

B. Leg sweeps, boot to boot, to the inside and outside of the opponent's foot (not above the ankle) are permitted.

C. Foot pads are required and are to be supplied by each contestant. Foot pads must be secured to the foot with elastic strap and medical athletic tape and must cover both toes and heel. Laces must not be exposed.

D. Shin pads must be made of a soft material (dipped foam or cotton) and secured to the shin with elastic straps and medical athletic tape.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-411.17. International (low kick) rules.

A. Along with legal kicks and punches above the waist, contestants may also kick to the legs, but not to the knee.

B. Leg sweeps, boot to boot, to the inside and outside of the contestant's foot (not above the ankle) are permitted.

C. Kicks may be made with the shin or foot.

D. Kicks to the inside and outside of the contestant's legs are permitted.

E. Direct sidekicks to the legs are not permitted.

F. Foot pads are not permitted. Shin pads may be worn but are not mandatory. If used, shin pads must be made of a soft material (dipped foam or cotton) and must be secured to the shin with elastic straps and medical athletic tape.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-411.18. Muay Thai (Thai boxing) rules.

A. Along with legal kicks and punches above the waist, contestants may use legal kicks to the legs (not the knees) and elbows to legal target areas along with legal throws and take downs.

B. Use of knees and elbows is restricted to legal target areas below the neck. Use of knees and elbows to the head are permitted if prior approval by the department or its contractor is obtained.

C. Kneeing is permitted if one contestant is active within the clinch.

D. Kicks may be made with the shin or foot.

E. Kicks to the inside and outside of the fighter's leg are permitted.

F. Direct sidekicks to the legs are not permitted.

G. Contestants are permitted to catch their opponent's leg and take up to two steps. Contestants may strike anytime during the two steps, but must release the leg when they strike or by the end of the two steps.

H. Foot pads and shin pads are not permitted.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-411.19. San Shou (Sanda) rules.

A. Along with legal kicks and punches above the waist, contestants may use legal kicks to the legs (not the knees) and elbows to legal target area. Use of knees and elbows is restricted to legal target areas below the neck. Use of knees and elbows to the head is permitted if prior approval by the department or its contractor is obtained.

B. Leg sweeps, boot to boot, to the inside and outside of the contestant's foot (not above the ankle) are permitted.

C. Kicks may be made with the shin or foot.

D. Kicks to the inside and outside of the contestant's leg are permitted.

E. Direct sidekicks to the legs are not permitted.

F. Contestants are permitted to catch their opponent's leg and take up to two steps. Contestants may strike anytime during the two steps, but must release the leg when they strike or by the end of the two steps.

G. Kneeing is permitted if one contestant is active within the clinch.

H. Clinching without kneeing is permitted for five seconds to execute a throw, sweep or takedown.

I. All types of Judo and wrestling throws are permitted, except spiking one's opponent directly on the head.

J. Foot pads and shin pads are not permitted.

K. Bouts contested on a platform without ropes must be approved by the department or its contractor 30 days prior to the event.

L. Contests shall be scored as follows:

1. Two areas will be scored, stand up and takedowns. Both are scored by the use of a clicker counter by each judge.

a. Stand up -- Each judge will award a contestant one point for every effective strike delivered, with the exception of kicks that are caught and effective counter or throw or sweep delivered.

b. Takedown -- After each throw, takedown or sweep, the referee will stop the action and determine if points are to be awarded. The referee will indicate points awarded by pointing to the contestant with one hand and raising his other hand indicating the number of points to be awarded. The referee will also announce the number of points. Each judge will record the number of points, by clicking the appropriate number on their clickers.

2. Referee awarded points.

a. Zero points are awarded if:

(1) A throw is attempted, but the other contestant pulls the thrower down with him and neither can show control;

(2) One contestant uses a falling technique to attack unsuccessfully; or

(3) One contestant uses a flying offensive technique with a deliberately falling technique, the latter one will not score.

b. One point is awarded if the contestant being thrown uses a throw "counter technique" and reverses the beginning thrower in regards to position of control or command. The contestant who ends up in the controlling or commanding position within a count of one after both contestants hit the floor shall receive the one point. If both contestants end up side to side no points shall be awarded.

c. Two points are awarded:

(1) For any knockdown from a strike (punch or kick) if the technique is clean and the standing contestant does not touch the ring floor and the fallen contestant is not given a standing eight count and rises off the mat quickly after the knockdown;

(2) For any basic throw that is not high altitude or of extreme skill or difficulty and the thrower remains standing; or

(3) If the contestant is forced to fall by the opponent's techniques, including the opponent deliberately falling while dodging defensively.

d. Three points are awarded:

(1) For any high altitude or explosive or extremely difficult throw;

(2) For any knockdown from a strike or any technique that requires the referee to give the contestant a standing eight count; or

(3) If the opponent is knocked down by a dropping sweep, which causes the opponent to come off his feet and land on his back (the sweepers hands may touch the floor).

3. Judges scoring. At the end of each round, each judge will write the total number of points for each contestant on the scorecard. At the end of each round, the event inspector or his designee will award the winning contestant one point and the loosing contestant zero points for that round. At the end of the bout, unless the bout was stopped prior to the end of the scheduled rounds by knockout, technical knockout, or disqualification, the contestant with the most rounds won will be declared the winner. If the bout ends in a decision, the winner is the contestant who wins the most rounds.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-411.20. Mixed martial arts rules.

A. The fighting ring shall be in the shape of a square or an octagon. A square ring shall not be less than 18 feet square within the ropes and shall not exceed 20 feet square inside the ropes. An octagon ring shall not be less than 18 feet (from any side to the opposite side) inside the ropes and shall not exceed 32 feet (from any side to the opposite side) inside the ropes. It shall be canvas and padded in a manner approved by the department or its contractor. The fighting area shall not be more than four feet from the floor and shall have suitable steps or a ramp for use by the contestants. It may be enclosed by a fence made of material that will not permit a contestant to fall out or break through it onto the floor or in spectator area, including, but not limited to, vinyl coated chain link fencing. The fence shall provide two separate entries into the ring. All metal parts shall be covered and padded in a manner approved by the department or its contractor and shall not be abrasive to the contestants. Ring stools shall be of the type approved by the department or its contractor.

B. All contestants are required to wear a mouthpiece during competition. The mouthpiece shall be subject to examination and approval by the ringside physician. The round cannot begin without the mouthpiece in place. If the mouthpiece becomes involuntarily dislodged during competition, the referee shall call time and clean and reinsert the mouthpiece at the first opportune moment, without interfering with the immediate action.

C. Male contestants shall wear a groin protector of a type approved by the department or its contractor. Female contestants shall wear a chest protector during competition, of a type approved by the department or its contractor.

D. Gloves shall be new for all main events and in good condition or they must be replaced. All contestants shall wear either four, five, or six ounce gloves that are supplied by the promoter and approved by the department or contractor. Contestants may not supply their own gloves.

E. Each contestant shall wear two pair of shorts with the top pair being either mixed martial art shorts, biking shorts, or kick boxing shorts. The second pair shall be worn underneath. Gi's or shirts and shoes are prohibited during competition.

F. All contestants shall be cleanly shaven immediately prior to competition, except that a contestant may wear a closely cropped mustache. Hair shall be trimmed or tied back in such a manner as not to interfere with the vision of either contestant or cover any part of a contestant's face.

G. Each nonchampionship contest shall consist of three five-minute rounds with a one-minute rest period between rounds. Each championship contest shall consist of five five-minute rounds with a one-minute rest period between rounds.

H. The referee and ringside physician are the sole arbiters of a bout and are the only individuals authorized to enter the ring area at any time during competition or to stop a contest.

I. All bouts will be evaluated and scored by three judges. The 10 point must system will be the standard system of scoring a bout. Judges will evaluate mixed martial arts techniques, such as effective striking, effective grappling, control of the fighting area, and effective aggressiveness and defense. Scores will be weighted in the following order:

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

2. Effective grappling, judged by considering the amount of successful executions of a legal takedown or reversals. Factors considered will be take downs from standing position to mount position, passing the guard to mount position, and bottom position contestants using active, threatening guard.

3. Control of the fighting area, judged by determining who is dictating the pace and location and position of the bout. Factors considered will be countering a grappler's attempt at takedown by remaining standing and legally striking, taking down an opponent to force a ground fight, creating threatening submission attempts, passing the guard to achieve mount, and creating striking opportunities.

4. Effective aggressiveness and defense, judged by moving forward and landing a legal strike and avoiding being struck, taken down or reversed while countering with offensive attacks.

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

1. A round is to be scored as a 10-10 round when both contestants appear to be fighting evenly and neither contestant shows clear dominance in a round.

2. A round is to be scored as a 10-9 round when a contestant winning by a close margin lands the greater number of effective legal strikes, grappling and other maneuvers.

3. A round is to be scored as a 10-8 round when a contestant overwhelmingly dominates by striking or grappling in a round.

4. A round is to be scored as a 10-7 round when a contestant totally dominates by striking or grappling in a round.

K. Judges shall use a sliding scale and recognize the length of the time the contestants are either standing or on the ground as follows.

1. If the contestant spent a majority of a round on the canvas, the effective grappling is weighed first and effective striking second.

2. If the contestant spent a majority of a round standing, the effective striking is weighed first and effective grappling is second.

3. If a round ends with relatively even amount of standing and canvas fighting, striking and grappling are weighed equally.

L. The referee shall issue a single warning for the following infractions:

1. Holding or grabbing the fence or ropes;

2. Holding an opponent's shorts or gloves; or

3. The presence of more than one second on the fighting area perimeter.

If the prohibited conduct persists after a single warning, the infraction may result in a deduction of points or disqualification.

M. The referee shall deduct points for the following fouls:

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;

8. Downward pointing of elbows strikes;

9. Small joint manipulation;

10. Strikes to the spine or back of the head;

11. Heel kick to the kidneys;

12. Throat strikes of any kind;

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

14. Kicking the head of a grounded contestant;

15. Kneeing the head of a grounded contestant;

16. Stomping of a grounded contestant;

17. Use of abusive language in the ring;

18. Any unsportsmanlike conduct that causes an injury to the opponent;

19. Attacking an opponent on or during the break;

20. Attacking an opponent who is under the referee's care at that time;

21. Timidity (avoiding contact, or consistent dropping of the mouthpiece, or faking an injury);

22. Interference from a contestant's second or corner person;

23. Throwing an opponent out of the ring;

24. Flagrant disregard of the referee's instructions; or

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

If a foul is committed, the referee shall call time, check the fouled contestant's condition and safety, assess the foul to the offending contestant, deduct points, and notify each corner's seconds, judges and the event inspector or his designee. Disqualification will occur after any combination of three fouls or after the referee determines that a foul was intentional and flagrant. Fouls will result in a point being deducted by the event inspector or designated scorekeeper from the offending contestant's score. Only the referee can assess a foul. If the referee does not call the foul, judges shall not make that assessment on their own and cannot factor such into their scoring calculations. A fouled contestant has five minutes to recuperate.

If a bottom contestant commits a foul, but the top contestant is not injured and he maintains his position, the match shall continue, so as not to jeopardize the top contestant's superior position at the time. The referee shall verbally notify the bottom contestant of the foul. When the round is over, the referee shall assess the foul and notify both corner's seconds, the judges and the event official or his designee. The referee may terminate a bout based on the severity of a foul.

N. If an injury sustained during competition as a result of a legal maneuver is severe enough to terminate a bout, the injured contestant loses by technical knockout. If an injury sustained during competition is a result of an intentional foul severe enough to terminate a bout, the contestant causing the injury loses by disqualification. If an injury is sustained during competition as a result of an intentional foul and the bout is allowed to continue, the referee shall deduct two points from the offending contestant and shall notify the event inspector or his designee. If an injury sustained during the competition as a result of an intentional foul causes the injured contestant to be unable to continue at a subsequent point in the contest, the injured contestant shall win by technical decision, if he is ahead on the scorecards. If the injured contestant is even or behind on the scorecards at the time the competition is stopped, the outcome of the bout shall be declared a technical draw.

If a contestant injures himself while attempting to foul the opponent, the referee shall not take any action in his favor, and the injury shall be treated in the same manner as an injury produced by a fair blow.

If an injury sustained during a bout as a result of an accidental foul is severe enough for the referee to stop the bout immediately, the bout shall result in a no contest if stopped before two rounds have been completed in a three round bout or before three rounds have been completed in a five round bout. If an injury sustained during a bout as a result of an accidental foul is severe enough for the referee to stop the bout immediately, the bout shall result in a technical decision awarded to the contestant who is ahead on the score cards at the time the bout is stopped only when the bout is stopped after two rounds of a three round bout or three rounds of a five round bout.

O. There will be no scoring of an incomplete round. However, if the referee penalizes either contestant, then the appropriate points shall be deducted when the event inspector or his representative calculates the final score.

P. Bouts may end in the following ways:

1. Submission by tap out – Contestant physically uses his hand to indicate that he no longer wishes to continue.

2. Verbal tap out – Contestant verbally announces to the referee that he does not wish to continue.

3. Technical knockout – Referee or ringside physician stops the bout when an injury as a result of a legal maneuver is severe enough to terminate a bout.

4. Knockout – Contestant fails to rise from the canvas before a count of 10.

5. Draws – Unanimous when all three judges score the bout a draw. Majority when two of the judges score the contest a draw. Split when all the judges score the bout differently and the score total results in a draw.

6. Disqualification – An injury sustained during the competition as result of an intentional foul is severe enough to terminate the contest.

7. Forfeit – A contestant fails to begin competition or prematurely ends the contest for reasons other than injury.

8. Technical draw – An injury sustained during the competition as a result of an intentional foul causes the injured contestant to be unable to continue and the injured contestant is even or behind on the score cards at the time of the stoppage.

9. Technical decision – The bout is prematurely stopped due to injury and a contestant is leading on the score cards.

10. 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 by the score cards.

Q. Weight classes are as follows:

No contestant may engage in a contest without the approval of the department or the department's representative if the difference in weight between the contestants exceeds the allowance shown on the above schedule.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-411.21. Rules for other contests.

Rules for aikido, karate, judo, tae kwon do or similar contests shall be the mixed martial arts rules set forth in 18VAC120-40-411.20 or other rules submitted with the event application, approved by the department, and agreed to by all licensees participating in the event.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

Part IX
Event Licensing and Conduct Standards for Wrestling

18VAC120-40-415. Application for a license to conduct a wrestling event.

A. At least 30 days before the date of any wrestling event in the Commonwealth, the licensed promoter desiring to conduct the event shall deliver an application for a license to conduct a wrestling event to the department or its contractor. The application shall be on forms provided by the department and shall include:

1. The card of the wrestling show to be exhibited, including the name of each participant. The promoter may modify the card at any time up to the day of the event by providing the required documents for the additions to and the notice of the deletions from the card that accompanied the application;

2. A certification by the promoter that all participants are properly trained and competent to perform within the ring and ring area;

3. The date, location, and time of the event for which a license is sought. The department will consider the size and configuration of the location and may deny approval of the event license for safety reasons;

4. A statement certifying that all participants scheduled to compete are covered by a health insurance policy that covers medical expenses for injuries incurred during the wrestling event. A waiver of liability will be accepted in lieu of a health insurance policy.

5. Evidence of a surety bond filed with the department or its contractor conditioned on the payment of gate fees and penalties imposed by Chapter 8.1 (§ 54.1-828 et seq.) of Title 54.1 of the Code of Virginia and on the fulfillment of the contracts made with the participants. The bond shall be in form and substance satisfactory to the department and in an amount equal to the sum of (i) the total gate fee required by this chapter and § 54.1-833 A of the Code of Virginia if all seats were to be sold and (ii) the total amount due to all participants for their appearance in the event. The bond shall not exceed $100,000 and shall be executed by a surety authorized to do business in the Commonwealth;

6. Acknowledgment that the promoter will provide a copy of the contract between the promoter and each of the participants to the department or its contractor upon request;

7. A copy of each contract by the promoter for the sale of the rights to distribute in any manner such event by any video, telephonic, or other communication method involving the control of electrons or other charge carriers;

8. A statement that the applicant has read and understands this chapter and will conduct the event in full compliance with same; and

9. Verification of status as a charity event as defined in this chapter.

B. In no case shall the applicant for an event license announce or advertise, either directly or indirectly, the event to the public until the department has approved the application and issued the event license.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-415.1. Equipment to be provided by wrestling promoters.

The promoter shall assure that each event shall have the following:

1. A fighting ring that will be in the shape of a square, a hexagon, or an octagon. A square ring shall not be less than 16 feet square within the ropes and shall not exceed 20 feet square inside the ropes. A hexagon or octagon ring shall not be less than 16 feet (from any side to the opposite side) inside the ropes and shall not exceed 32 feet (from any side to the opposite side) inside the ropes. The ring floor shall be padded with ensolite, one inch thick, or another similar closed-cell foam. The padded ring floor must extend at least 18 inches beyond the ropes and over the edge of the platform with a top covering of canvas or other similar material tightly stretched and laced to the ring platform. Material that tends to gather in lumps or ridges shall not be used. The ring platform shall not be more than five feet above the floor of the building and shall have suitable steps for use of the contestants in their corners. Ring posts shall be of metal, not more than three inches in diameter, extending from the floor of the building to a height of 58 inches above the ring floor. The ring posts shall be at least 18 inches away from the ring ropes. There shall be three or four ring ropes, no more than one inch in diameter, evenly spaced, with the bottom ring rope not less than 18 inches above the ring floor and the top ring rope not more than 52 inches above the ring floor. All ring ropes are to be tight and approved by the department or its contractor. All corners must be padded with approved pads. All turnbuckles are to be covered with a protective padding. The ring shall have bright lights and light all four corners and middle of the ring equally. No lights shall shine into the face of the participants, lights may only shine downward and not shine at any angle directly into the fighting ring area that may blind the participants. The promoter shall provide a ringside restrictive barrier between the first row of ringside seats and the ring area event official's area that will prevent the crowd from confronting the participants. The ringside barrier must be a minimum of six feet from the outside edge of the ring;

2. A bell or gong located at the ring no higher than the floor level of the ring. The bell or gong must produce a clear tone easily heard by the participants;

3. Locker rooms adequate in number and equipment to reasonably facilitate the participant's activities before and after the show. Separate locker rooms shall be provided when both male and female participants are scheduled to compete. Locker rooms shall have restroom facilities easily available;

4. A notice to the nearest hospital and the persons in charge of its emergency room of the date, time and location of event.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-415.2. Wrestling event conduct standards.

A. Wrestling exhibitions shall be conducted inside the ring ropes or inside a securely barricaded area that prevents any direct contact between the participants and the audience.

B. Each match shall be conducted under the supervision of a referee who shall be currently licensed as a wrestler and who shall be responsible for the safety of the participants and spectators.

C. Neither the promoter or referee shall permit physically dangerous conduct or tactics by any participant.

D. Participants shall not intentionally cause a flow of blood or other bodily fluid from his body or any other participant's body during the course of the match. In the event a visible flow of blood or other bodily fluid from any participant occurs during the show, the referee shall immediately suspend the match until medical treatment can be obtained. If the flow of blood or other bodily fluid cannot be stopped, the match involving that participant shall not continue.

E. All participants will report to the event location and their locker rooms at the specified time. Once the participant reports to the event facility and to his locker room he will be disqualified if he leaves the staging area before the match or leaves the facility before the end of the bout without prior approval from the event inspector.

F. Promoters shall maintain peace, order and decency in the conduct of all participants and spectators.

G. Promoters must have, and maintain for review if needed, individual contracts on file for all their participants or shall report to the department, on a form provided by the department, within 24 hours of the completion of the event, any fees promised or received by the participants of that event.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

18VAC120-40-415.3. Promoter to allow access to event and facilities.

A. The department may assign one or more representatives to each event to evaluate the contractor's performance or to assure compliance with Chapter 8.1 (§ 54.1-828 et seq.) of Title 54.1 of the Code of Virginia and this chapter.

B. All event officials and representatives of the department assigned to an event, whether to monitor the contractor's performance or for any other authorized purpose, shall be granted immediate access by the promoter and the promoter's representatives to the licensed event and to any area or portion of the event facilities.

C. The promoter is responsible for security of the locker room area and shall permit no person to enter the locker room area except for the promoter or his staff or representative, licensed participants, the event inspector or any individual the department may deem appropriate to ensure compliance with Chapter 8.1 (§ 54.1-828 et seq.) of Title 54.1 of the Code of Virginia and this chapter.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

Part X
Gate Fees

18VAC120-40-420. Reporting, verification, and payment of gate fees.

A. No person, except for members of a local police department or rescue squad on duty covering the event, officials, event staff, promoters and participants may be admitted to the event without a ticket.

B. Each ticket, except those for the working press, officials, employees, and official photographers, shall have the price, name of the promoter, date, and place of the event printed plainly on it.

C. No promoter shall sell a ticket at a price other than the price that appears on the ticket.

D. No promoter shall change a ticket price or the place or date of the event without the approval of the department.

E. Tickets of different prices shall be printed in different colors.

F. The promoter shall permit the inspector to check the number and location of ticket boxes at the gate, ensure that the ticket boxes are sealed and padlocked, and open the ticket boxes and count the tickets after the event.

G. Each ticket issued to the press shall be marked "press."

H. A maximum of 2.0% of the tickets to an event may be complimentary.

I. Each complimentary ticket shall be marked complimentary.

J. The promoter shall provide to the department, prior to the commencement of an event at which admission is charged, a manifest or report on the number, kind, and price of tickets printed for the contest.

K. Each ticket shall be separated from the stub when entering through the gate. No person shall occupy a seat without a stub.

L. Each promoter shall furnish to the department, within 24 hours after the completion of each event, a written and verified report on the form provided by the department showing the number of tickets sold, unsold, and given away, the amount of the proceeds donated to a charitable organization that is tax exempt under § 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, and the amount of gross proceeds thereof for such events originating in the Commonwealth. The report shall also include the total gross proceeds from the sale of rights to distribute in any manner such event by any video, telephonic, or other communication method involving the control of electrons or other charge carriers for such live events originating in the Commonwealth.

M. The promoter shall pay the department, within the same 24-hour period, a fee of (i) 5.0% of the first $100,000 of its total gross receipts and (ii) 2.5% of the remainder of its total gross proceeds. These fees shall not be reduced for portions of an event containing amateur matches as set forth in 18VAC120-40-10.

N. The department or its contractor may examine or cause to be audited the records and accounts of the promoter.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia and 15 USC § 6301 et seq.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 21, eff. August 5, 1999; amended, Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007.

Part XI
Standards of Conduct and Performance

18VAC120-40-430. Grounds for disciplinary action by the department.

A. The department shall have the authority to discipline a licensee through a fine, license suspension, or license revocation for the same reason it may deny licensure or renewal, and for the following reasons, as may be appropriate:

1. Violating or inducing another person to violate any provisions of the federal Professional Boxing Safety Act of 1996 (15 USC § 6301 et seq.), Chapters 1, 2, 3 or 8.1 of Title 54.1 of the Code of Virginia or of this chapter.

2. Using misrepresentation or fraud to obtain or attempt to obtain a license or event license.

3. Having a medical condition which makes participation in events a health hazard.

4. Altering a license issued by the department.

5. Having been convicted in any jurisdiction of any felony or of any non-marijuana misdemeanor involving lying, cheating, or stealing or of any non-marijuana misdemeanor for acts carried out while engaged in boxing, wrestling, or other athletic activities. Any plea of nolo contendere shall be considered a conviction for the purposes of this subsection. A certified copy of a final order, decree, or case decision by a court or regulatory agency with the lawful authority to issue such order, decree, or case decision shall be admissible as prima facie evidence of such conviction or discipline.

6. Having been the subject of disciplinary action taken by Virginia or another jurisdiction in connection with the participation in or promotion of professional athletic contests or activities, including monetary penalties, fines, suspension, revocation, or surrender of a license in connection with a disciplinary action.

7. Failing or refusing to appear when directed by the department or its contractor for the purposes of weighing or conducting a medical examination.

8. Failing to furnish a valid reason or a doctor's certificate to explain any failure to appear at an event in which an applicant or licensee agreed to participate by signing a contract.

9. Using unsportsmanlike conduct or other inappropriate behavior inconsistent with generally accepted methods of competition.

10. Failure to meet financial obligations that results in collection proceedings against the bond required by this chapter and § 54.1-833 A of the Code of Virginia.

11. Using profane or abusive language, during the event, including at the weigh-in and prefight meeting.

12. Threatening or inflicting bodily harm upon an official or members of the audience during an event.

13. Making allegations of illegal or improper conduct against officials that the licensee knows or should have known to be false.

14. Using alcohol, controlled substances, or stimulants in any part of the body prior to or during an event or being found to be under the influence of alcohol, controlled substances, or stimulants during an event.

15. Failing to submit to a urinalysis or chemical test before or after an event upon request of the department or its designee.

16. Failing to fulfill contracts for participation in an event.

17. Wearing facial cosmetics or jewelry of any kind, including any type of body piercing by any participants during a contest, except that wrestlers may wear cosmetics or jewelry unless the event official determines there is a safety risk.

18. Failing to secure hair with soft, nonabrasive materials during a contest, when deemed appropriate by the department or its contractor.

19. Allowing a license, certificate, or registration to be used by another.

B. The department shall conduct disciplinary procedures in accordance with the Administrative Process Act (§ 2.2-4000 et seq. of the Code of Virginia).

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-831 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 21, eff. August 5, 1999; amended, Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 23, eff. August 27, 2003; Volume 23, Issue 24, eff. September 5, 2007; Volume 38, Issue 4, eff. December 1, 2021.

Forms (18VAC120-40)

Boxing Forms

Boxer/Limited Boxer License Application, A511-4102_22LIC-v1 (eff. 9/2016)

Boxing/Martial Arts Event License Application and Proposed Boxing/Martial Arts Bout Card, A511-4108LIC-v4 (eff. 12/2016)

Additions/Substitutions/Deletions to Proposed Boxing/Martial Arts Bout Card, A511-4108AD_BMA-v1 (eff. 12/2016)

Martial Arts Forms

Martial Artist/Limited Martial Artist License Application, A511-4122_23LIC-v1 (eff. 9/2016)

Boxing/Martial Arts Event License Application and Proposed Boxing/Martial Arts Bout Card, A511-4108LIC-v4 (eff. 12/2016)

Additions/Substitutions/Deletions to Proposed Boxing/Martial Arts Bout Card, A511-4108AD_BMA-v1 (eff. 12/2016)

Wrestling Forms

Wrestler/Limited Wrestler License Application, A511-4101_21LIC-v1 (eff. 9/2016)

Wrestling Event License Application and Proposed Wrestling Bout Card, A511-4107LIC-v4 (eff. 12/2016)

Additions/Substitutions/Deletions to Proposed Wrestling Bout Card, A511-4107ADBC-v1 (eff. 12/2016)

General Forms

Manager License Application, A511-4103LIC-v1 (eff. 9/2016)

Matchmaker License Application, A511-4104LIC-v1 (eff. 9/2016)

Promoter License Application, A511-4106_10LIC-v1 (eff. 9/2016)

Trainer, Second or Cut Man License Application, A511-4105LIC-v5 (eff. 9/2016)

Amateur Martial Arts - Sanctioning Organization Approval Application, A511-4130AMA_SOA-v3 (eff. 7/2016)

Amateur Sanctioning Organization - Experience Verification Form, A511-4130EXP-v2 (eff. 7/2016)

Event Cash Bond Form, A511-41ECBOND-v2 (eff. 12/2015)

Event Surety Bond Form, A511-41EVBOND-v2 (eff. 12/2015)

Gate Fee Report, A511-41GFR-v3 (eff. 7/2016)

Promoter Payout Report, A511-41PAYPREP-v2 (eff. 12/2015)

Criminal Conviction Report Form, A406-01CCR-v2 (eff. 9/2015)

Disciplinary Action Reporting Form, A406-01DAR-v1 (eff. 5/2015)

Denial of Licensure Reporting Form, A406-01DEN-v1 (eff. 5/2015)