MMA Officials Handbook - Minnesota Combative Sports Commission

Minnesota

Combative Sports Commission

Referee and Judge

Training Manual

March 2010

MN CSC Officials Training Manual

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Table of Contents

Page

Referee and Judge Course Training Outline

Course Training Outline I. Introduction 6 II. Official’s Professional Code of Conduct and Ethics 6 III. Conflict of interest 7 IV. Provisional Status 7 V. Discipline 8

Referee Section

I. Introduction 9 II. To become licensed 9 III. Level of license 9 IV. Who can be a referee 10 V. Referee’s professional conduct and ethics 10 VI. Dress 10 VII. Understanding the rules 11 VIII. Mixed Martial Arts Unified Rules 11 IX. Pre-fight duties 18 X. Dressing room instructions 18 XI. Cage-side/ring-side check list 19 XII. Duties of referee upon combatants entering the cage/ring 20 XIII. Positioning during the bout 20 XIV. Shortening the distance 20 XV. Knockdowns and stunned combatants 21 XVI. Procedure following a cut, head-butt, or low blow 21 XVII. Low blows 22 XVIII. Enforcement of fouls 22 XIX. Referee action on Fouls 22 XX. Concussive head impact fouls 22 XXI. Five (5) minute rule 23 XXII. Disqualification of combatant(s) 23 XXIII. On the ground 23 XXIV. Stoppage protocols 24 XXV. Refereeing bouts inside a ring 25 XXVI. Conclusion 25

Judges Section I. Introduction 26 II. Dress 26 III. Pre bout preparation 26 IV. Judging criteria 27 V. Completion of score card 28

Sample Scorecards 29, 30 VI. After completion of the bout 31 VII. Point deduction scoring 31

References


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Referee and Judge Course Training Outline

MMA Referee Training Outline: Your referee trainer has met the following minimum qualifications:

A) 5 years professional MMA refereeing experience B) Proficiency in submission grappling C) Working knowledge of boxing, muay thai, judo and wrestling D) Past teaching experience E) Ability to present instructional material to a wide range of individuals with varying educational

backgrounds F) Basic knowledge of combative sports medical injuries such as concussions, lacerations, orthopedics,

and communicable diseases and choke holds This referee training course material will cover as a minimum the following: 1- Ethics • Code of Conduct • Conflicts of Interest • Handling Media Issues • Socializing with Fighters 2 - Referee's Appearance 3 - Pre-Fight Duties • Rules Meeting • Meeting the Fighters • Cage or Ring Inspection • Proper Hand-wraps • Gloves • Safety Equipment such as mouthpiece and groin protection • Proper Fighter Appearance-hair, nails, wraps, pads, shorts, Vaseline • Coordination with ringside physician and EMT's • Keeping control of the cage and the fighters separated pre bout 4 - The Role of the Referee during the Contest - health, safety, control and fairness 5 - Cage or Ring Cleanliness and Excess Water or Blood 6 - Handling the Corner persons • Identify Chief Second • Corner interference • Dealing with an irate corner after a stoppage 7 - In Between Rounds • Checking the fighters • Collecting the scores • Checking the fighting area


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8 - During the Bout • The issue of touching gloves • The differences between a cage or ring i.e. restarts, re-creates, the ropes • Proper positioning • Proper voice commands • Accidental foul procedures • Intentional foul procedures • Deducting points and disqualification • Replacing the mouthpiece • Dealing with lacerations • Lost contact lens, glove or safety equipment malfunction • Technical emergencies such as lighting failures, cage door malfunction, etc • How to handle a fighter who falls out of the ring • How to utilize the ringside physician • How to utilize the corner inspector • When to re-stand the fighters • When to separate standing fighters in a clinch • Where to restart the fight after a temporary stoppage • Handling a fighter in a submission hold who isn’t tapping • What is intelligently defending yourself? • Stopping the contest • Handling an unconscious or injured fighter 9 - Review of the Unified Rules • Include detailed review of all fouls 10 - Techniques • Review of Boxing, Muay Thai, Wrestling, Judo and Jiu-Jitsu maneuvers • Emphasis on submission attempts and how to advance to a position to finish the fight • What is an active, threatening guard?

MMA Judge Training Outline:

Your judge trainer has met the following minimum qualifications: A) 5 years professional MMA judging experience B) Adequate knowledge to recognize and describe various holds, throws, take downs & submission techniques C) Working knowledge of boxing, muay thai, judo and wrestling C) Able to present instructional material to a wide range of individuals with varying educational backgrounds D) Past teaching experience E) Basic knowledge of combative sports This judge training course material will cover as a minimum the following: 1- Ethics • Code of Conduct • Conflicts of Interest • Dealing with the media • Socializing with others at the venue


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• Discussing the scoring of fights with others 2 - Proper Appearance 3 - Review of the Unified Rules Judging Criteria 4 - Review of Boxing, Muay Thai, Wrestling, Judo and Jiu-Jitsu

• Emphasis on submission attempts and how to advance to a position to finish the fight 5 - Scoring issues • The 10-10 Round • What is a 10-8 Round • How to account for a point deduction • What to do with an incomplete round • Identifying each contestant on the scorecard by corner, name, and trunks or appearance • Accounting for the impact of heavy strikes • Does defense score points? • What is an active, threatening guard? • Scoring points while on your back • What is effective aggressiveness? • What is fighting area control? • Which fighter is imposing their will? i.e. striker vs. grappler, dictating pace and position • Discuss rear mount • Discuss side mount • Passing the guard • What is the impact of a submission attempt that does not finish the fight? • Does it matter which fighter looks fresher and isn't cut or swollen at the end of the fight 6 - Concentration • Handling a loud crowd • Dealing with a hometown favorite • How to break down a five minute round 7 - The Referee • What if I see a foul that the referee did not call? • What if I don’t think it was a foul, but the referee called it • What if I thought the slip that the referee called was a knockdown


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I. Introduction It is the responsibility of the Minnesota Combative Sports Commission hereafter referred to as the “Commission or CSC” to make all official assignments of referees and judges. The Commission will make all assignments of all referees and judges based on the following criteria:

experience of the official

recent performances of the official

reliability

professional attitude

difficulty of the assignment All referees and judges must successfully complete the Commission’s training program, and pass the written certification test with an 80% or greater pass score. They must also serve out the probation period where they must participate in officiating 50 bouts within a 2-year period, pass the review of at least two (2) certified trainers, and receive official certification and licensure from Commission before the Commission assigns assigned them to any referee or judge assignments based on the listed criteria. The exceptions are those judges and referees currently licensed by the Commission. However, all referees and judges must enroll in a Commission certified training session presented by a Commission certified trainer every two years in order to receive licensure by the Commission. The certified training program for new aspiring referees and judges and for licensed referees and judges must be at least 4 hours in length and be comprised of at least the following:

1 ½ hour minimum of classroom study reviewing rules and guidelines 1 ½ hour minimum of hands on participation 1 hour minimum reviewing the MMA Unified rules

Referees must be able to pass a:

Written Test concerning the rules and guidelines concerning refereeing a MMA Bout including rules, safety, positioning and fundamental knowledge of the techniques common to the sport

Physical examination

Background check that includes two (2) letters of reference from members of the MMA community

Judges must be able to pass a:

Physical exam including eye test

A written test concerning the rules of the sport and judging criteria, and knowledge of the techniques and principles common to the sport

Background check including two (2) letters of reference from members of the MMA community II. Official’s professional Code of Conduct and Ethics

It is the responsibility of all officials to report to the location of the event at least one hour prior to the scheduled start time and check in with the Commission Supervisor in charge, rested and ready to work.

The Commission prohibits the consumption of alcohol once an official arrives at the event location. Officials are not to consume alcoholic beverages while in attendance at any after-party event and/or function following the event. The Commission recommends that any assigned official refrain from consuming alcohol 24 hours prior to the scheduled start time of the event.


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Officials are advised that they must not smoke while they in attendance at any event.

Officials should not comment or discuss his/her view of how the contest is progressing at any time that a bout is in progress or following the conclusion of the bout. No official should have conversations with combatants, managers or seconds, with the exception of the referee when they are issuing a verbal warning, enforcing a rule, or assessing the condition of a contestant.

If any official has a concern regarding the performance of another official (judge, referee, Commissioner or Inspector) they should address their concerns privately with one of the Commissioners at the event or file a written complaint with the Commission office.

At all times officials must adhere to Minnesota’s Code of Ethics. All officials must not use his/her position to gain favors, gifts, discounts or benefits of any kind from anyone associated with an event. This precludes an official from gaining entrance to events when that official is not working at that event.

Officials must maintain a neutral appearance at all times. Officials must never express their opinions of a bout to any combatant, trainer, spectator or any opinions regarding a bout or the event while at an event to spectators or the media... If approached by the media or others, the official must refer all inquiries to the Commissioner at the event or to the Commission office.

III. Conflict of Interest The Commission recognizes that every qualified applicant may have some level of conflict. When assigning officials to bouts, the Commission will pay close attention to these potential issues. No single conflict should prevent anyone from serving as a referee. The Commission will evaluate all potential applicants in totality of their fitness for the job. Some examples:

A licensed promoter would not be a referee on his own show. Since he is in a business relationship with every combatant on the show, there are too many potential conflicts to permit a promoter to referee on their own show. However, a licensed promoter would be able to work as a referee on a different promotion.

A licensed combatant could serve as a referee, provided he/she is not refereeing a potential future opponent. Combatants who referee must not work with in their own weight class.

A licensed coach or corner man could serve as a referee if he/she is not refereeing a potential future opponent for someone that the combatant is performing second/trainers duties.

IV. Provisional status All officials in their first year or until they have gained enough bout experience will be licensed on a provisional status. This will give the Commission opportunity to observe and evaluate the official’s ability to be both competent and fair. Officials should expect to answer for all of their decisions made in the cage/ring and expect to have those decisions challenged. Everyone understands that officials may make mistakes; but an official must expect someone to challenge their decision and to be able to explain their actions. Officials who cannot explain their actions may be suspended or terminated. All provisional officials will have every bout reviewed by the Commission, peers and Commission certified trainers. This will give the Commission ample evidence to support any decision they make about an Official’s status. An Official in provisional status can have their license revoked without explanation or right to appeal.

Referees must have 1 year experience and work a minimum of 50 Official, Commission approved bouts to advance beyond provisional status

Judges must have 1 year experience and work a minimum of 50 Official, Commission approved bouts to advance beyond provisional status

VI. Discipline


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All officials are subject to discipline from the Commission. The Commission maintains a great deal of latitude in how it disciplines officials. While promotions may select their officials, they can only select from officials approved by the Commission. The Commission will not approve officials who are not in good standing to work on any event. The Commission can suspend or revoke the license any official for any of the following:

Infraction of the rules

Tardiness

Insubordination

Appearance

Display of bias

Undisclosed conflict of interest

Accepting of gifts or favors from event participants

Demeanor

Inadequate performance or demonstration of job knowledge The Commission will notify officials in person and in writing of any suspension or revocation of their license. Those officials licensed beyond provisional status have the right to appeal disciplinary action taken against them.


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Referees I. Introduction One of the most difficult and least appreciated jobs in the sports is that of the referee. The only time a referee knows they did a great job is when no one noticed them at all. A referee must always be close enough to the actions to protect the combatants but not interfere with the fight. Remember the Combatants’ actions in the cage/ring should decide the fight. II. To become licensed To become a Referee applicants must attend a training secession must be able to pass a:

Attend a training session for referees

Pass a written test on the rules and guidelines concerning refereeing a MMA bout including rules, safety, positioning and fundamental knowledge of the techniques common to the sport

Physical examination

Background check including two (2) letters of reference from members of the MMA community

Judges are provisionally licensed for their first 1 years of active judging and must have 50 bouts before they are to be considered fully, professionally licensed

III. Level of License Provisional Referee: A Provisional Referee applicant must have completed the Commission Certified Training Course. While under provisional licensure, the Commission will expect the applicant to complete 50 rounds of officiating amateur bouts and/or professional bouts within a two (2) year period. Provisional Referees can have their status revoked without cause at any time by the Commission. The Commission expects referees in this status to demonstrate a commitment to the sport. Professional Referee: In order for the Commission to certify one as a Professional referees an applicant must have refereed 50 bouts on licensed shows and have at least one (1) full year experience as a referee. Senior Professional Referee: The Commission will certify a referee as a Senior Professional Referee once the applicant has refereed a minimum of 200 bouts on licensed and sanctioned MMA shows and a minimum of two (2) years experience. Head Referee. The Commission can appoint one referee to be the State’s head referee. This person will be qualified to conduct training seminars, administer tests and certify referees on a provisional basis pending the approval of the Commission. This person will determine referee assignments (subject to review by the Commission) they will also be empowered to suspend or discipline referees. The person appointed to this position should have 300 bouts and 3 years of experience. They should also have demonstrated leadership and organizational abilities equal to the responsibility. A member of the Commission shall act as the head referee until the Commission appoints a head referee.


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IV. Who can be a referee? Referees need to be physically capable of performing the job. Referees for MMA must be in excellent physical condition and possess both the speed and the strength to control the action and stop a fight when needed. MMA referees must often place themselves in danger during a bout. A qualified referee must understand how to defend themselves at all times. Also required:

A referee must not have a direct, demonstrable conflict of interest in the outcome of a bout.

Must be able to demonstrate a confident knowledge of the sport

Present a neat clean appearance

Maintain a good reputation V. Referee’s professional conduct and ethics

It is the responsibility of the referee to report to the location of the event at least one hour prior to the scheduled start time and check in with the Commissioner at the event, rested and ready to work.

Referees must not consume alcoholic beverages at the location of the event, prior to, or during the bouts. Referees should not drink alcoholic beverages at after event functions with participants. Any referee, who accepts an official assignment, should refrain from consuming alcohol 24 hours prior to the scheduled start time of the event.

Referees must not smoke at events.

At no time during, or between rounds, should a referee comment or discuss his/her view of how the contest is progressing. All referees should refrain from conversations with combatants, managers, seconds, or the public. The exception to this is when the referee is issuing a verbal warning, enforcing a rule, or assessing the condition of a combatant. Do not offer personal opinions.

You should address all concerns that reflect the performance of another official privately with the Commission or the Commissioner at the event.

No referee should use his/her position to gain favors, gifts, discounts or benefits of any kind from anyone associated with an event. This includes entrance to events when that the referee is not assigned to work.

Referees must maintain a neutral appearance at all times. Do not express your opinion of a fight, combatant, trainer or other such opinions at an event or to the media...

When approached by members of the media regarding the outcome of a bout do not express any personal opinions regarding the outcome. Refer any requests from the media to the Commission or Commissioner at the event. It is your duty to remain neutral.

All referees must know and understand all Commission rules and laws regarding conflicts and potential conflicts of interest.

VI. Dress

It is important to project a neat, well-groomed, clean shaved, professional image when refereeing. You are the person in charge, and your personal appearance plays a major role in how combatants, the public and the media perceive you. When working in the ring as the referee, you are not to wear glasses, jewelry or large belt buckles. Wear nothing that will prevent your movement or present a danger to the combatants. Your uniform will be clean and pressed prior to the start of the first bout of the evening. If you are working multiple bouts on the same card, you should bring a spare shirt in the event that the first becomes soiled. The uniform of a referee shall consist of:

Black or dark blue trousers

Black shoes (fighting shoes or approved soft-soled shoes)


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An approved uniform designated by the MMA Commission

Rubber or latex gloves VII. Understanding the rules

It is your responsibility as a referee to have a complete understanding of all the rules governing the sport. You are the expected authority on the sport. As a referee, you must have demonstrable knowledge of all aspect of the game including equipment, hand wrap, scoring, all fouls, rules, procedures as well as a firm grasp of the techniques and strategy of the game itself. Minnesota uses Unified Rules for MMA. You must have a detailed understanding of these rules.

VIII. Mixed Martial Arts Unified Rules

1. Weight classes of mixed martial artists

Mixed martial artists are into the following classes: 1.Flyweight under 125.9 pounds; 2.Bantamweight 126 lbs. - 135 pounds; 3.Featherweight 135.1 lbs. - 145pounds; 4.Lightweight 145.1 lbs. - 155 pounds; 5.Welterweight 155.1 lbs. - 170 pounds; 6.Middleweight 170.1 lbs. - 185 pounds; 7.Light Heavyweight 185.1 lbs. - 205 pounds; 8.Heavyweight 205.1 lbs. - 265 pounds; and 9.Super Heavyweight over 265 pounds.

Combatants are given a two-pound allowance except for title fights where no allowance is given

2. Fighting area

The fighting area canvas shall be no smaller than 18 feet by 18 feet and no larger than 32 feet by 32 feet. The fighting area canvas shall be padded in a manner as approved by the Commissioner, with at least one-inch layer of foam padding. Padding shall extend beyond the fighting area and over the edge of the platform. No vinyl or other plastic rubberized covering shall be permitted.

The fighting area canvas shall not be more than four feet above the floor of the building and shall have suitable steps or ramp for use by the participants. Posts shall be made of metal not more than six inches in diameter, extending from the floor of the building to a minimum height of 58 inches above the fighting area canvas and shall be properly padded in a manner approved by the Commissioner.

The fighting area canvas area shall be enclosed by a fence made of such material as will not allow a combatant to fall out or break through it onto the floor or spectators, including, but not limited to, vinyl coated chain link fencing. All metal parts shall be covered and padded in a manner approved by the Commissioner and shall not be abrasive to the contestants.

3. Equipment

For each bout, the promoter shall provide a clean water bucket and a clean plastic water bottle in each corner.


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4. Specifications for bandages on mixed martial artist’s hands

In all weight classes, the bandages on each contestant’s hand shall be restricted to soft gauze cloth not more than 13 yards in length and two inches in width, held in place by not more than 10 feet of surgeon’s tape, one inch in width, for each hand.

Surgeon’s adhesive tape shall be placed directly on each hand for protection near the wrist. The tape may cross the back of the hand twice and extend to cover and protect the knuckles when the hand is clenched to make a fist.

The bandages shall be evenly distributed across the hand.

Bandages and tape shall be placed on the contestant’s hands in the dressing room in the presence of the inspector and in the presence of the manager or chief second of his or her opponent.

Under no circumstances are gloves to be placed on the hands of a contestant until the approval of the inspector is received.

5. Mouth pieces

All contestants are required to wear a mouthpiece during competition. The mouthpiece shall be subject to examination and approval by the attending physician.

The round cannot begin without the mouthpiece in place.

If the mouthpiece is involuntarily dislodged during competition, the referee shall call time, clean the mouthpiece and reinsert the mouthpiece at the first opportune moment, without interfering with the immediate action.

6. Protective equipment

Male mixed martial artists shall wear a groin protector of their own selection, of a type approved by the Commissioner.

Female combatants are prohibited from wearing groin protectors.

Female combatants shall wear a chest protector during competition. The chest protector shall be subject to approval of the Commission

8. Gloves

The gloves shall be new (fewer then 20 fights) for all bouts and in good condition or they must be replaced.

All contestants shall wear four, five or six ounce gloves, supplied by the promoter and approved by the Commission. No contestant shall supply their own gloves for participation.

9. Apparel

Each contestant shall wear mixed martial arts shorts, biking shorts, or kick-boxing shorts.

Gi’s or shirts are prohibited during competition.

Shoes are prohibited during competition.

10. Appearance

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.

Jewelry or piercing accessories are prohibited during competition.


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11. Round length

Each non-championship mixed martial arts contest shall be three rounds, of five minutes duration, with a one minute rest period between each round.

Each championship mixed martial arts contest shall be five rounds, of five minutes duration, with a one minute rest period between each round.

12. Stopping a contest

The referee and ringside physician are the sole arbiters of a bout and are the only individuals authorized to enter the fighting area at any time during competition and authorized to stop a contest. Note that only the referees can call a stop to the action while the timer is running.

13. Judging

All bouts will be evaluated and scored by three judges.

The 10-Point Must System will be the standard system of scoring a bout. Under the 10-Point Must Scoring System, 10 points must be awarded to the winner of the round and nine points or less must be awarded to the loser, except for a rare even round, which is scored (10-10).

Judges shall evaluate mixed martial arts techniques, such as effective striking, effective grappling, control of the fighting area, effective aggressiveness and defense.

Evaluations shall be made in the order in which the techniques appear above, giving the most weight in scoring to effective striking, effective grappling, control of the fighting area and effective aggressiveness and defense.

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

Effective grappling is judged by considering the amount of successful executions of a legal takedown and reversals. Examples of factors to consider are takedowns from standing position to mount position, passing the guard to mount position, and bottom position combatants using an active, threatening guard.

Fighting area control is judged by determining who is dictating the pace, location and position of the bout. Examples of factors to consider are 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.

Effective aggressiveness means moving forward and landing a legal strike.

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

The following objective scoring criteria shall be utilized by the judges when scoring a round; A round is a 10-10 Round when both contestants appear to be fighting evenly and

neither contestant shows clear dominance in a round; A round is to be scored as a 10-9 Round when a contestant wins by a close margin,

landing the greater number of effective legal strikes, grappling and other maneuvers; A round is a 10-8 Round when a contestant overwhelmingly dominates by striking or

grappling in a round. A round is a 10-7 Round when a contestant totally dominates by striking or grappling

in a round.


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Judges shall use a sliding scale and recognize the length of time the combatants are either standing or on the ground, as follows: If the mixed martial artists spent a majority of a round on the canvas, then: Effective grappling is weighed first; and Effective striking is then weighed

If the mixed martial artists spent a majority of a round standing, then: Effective striking is weighed first; and Effective grappling is then weighed If a round ends with a relatively even amount of standing and canvas fighting, you

weigh striking and grappling equally.

14. Warnings

The referee shall issue a single warning for the minor infractions. After the initial warning, if the prohibited conduct persists, the referee will issue a penalty. The penalty may result in a deduction of points or disqualification. Severity of the penalty relates to the impact the illegal act had on the bout. Note that a combatant should never profit from an illegal act. If the act in question results in giving the combatant a positional advantage, the referee must stop the action to take away the advantage. If the combatant uses an illegal technique to escape from a disadvantaged position, the referee will reposition the combatants to the closest position.

15 Fouls

The following are fouls and will result in penalties if committed: 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 elbow strikes; 9. Small joint manipulation; 10. Strikes to the spine or back of the head; 11. Heel kicks to the kidney; 12. Throat strikes of any kind; 13. Clawing, pinching, twisting the flesh or grabbing the clavicle; 14. Kicking the head of a grounded combatant; 15. Kneeing the head of a grounded combatant; 16. Stomping of a grounded combatant; 17. The use of abusive language in fighting area; 18. Any unsportsmanlike conduct that causes an injury to opponent; 19. Attacking an opponent on or during the break; 20. Attacking an opponent who is under the referee’s care at the time; 21. Timidity (avoiding contact, or consistent dropping of mouthpiece, or faking an injury); 22. Interference from a mixed martial artists seconds; 23. Throwing an opponent out of the fighting area;


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24. Flagrant disregard of the referee’s instructions; 25. Spiking an opponent to the canvas on his or her head or neck

16. Notes about Fouls:

Butting with the head. This includes backwards head butts and head butts to the body. A combatant can push into an opponent with their head but they cannot use their head as a battering weapon in any way. The referee must pay close attention to the head during a throw or takedown. It is common for heads to clash during a throw or slam. In such a case the determination must be made is the head butt was intentional or not.

Eye gouging of any kind; This includes using one’s chin or elbow in the eye socket.

Hair pulling: While deliberately pulling hair is against the rules; long or unruly hair may become tangled, knelt, stood or laid on. Combatants should keep hair short to prevent this from happening

Downward pointing of elbow strikes: Elbows that travel from 12:00 to 6:00 are against the rules to the head or the body.

Strikes to the spine or back of the head: Deliberate strikes to the back of the head or spine are sufficient reason to disqualify a combatant. However, a combatant that is turning his head or back and getting hit in illegal targets that is fault of the combatant being hit. This happens when one combatant has the other combatant’s back and is throwing strikes. The top combatant should take care and not throw downward strikes to his opponent’s back. However if the bottom combatant is turning his head into blows coming from the side there is no foul.

Kicking the head of a grounded combatant / kneeing the head of a grounded combatant / Stomping of a grounded combatant: A combatant is a grounded combatant when any part of their body with the exception of the bottom of their feet is touching the mat. One knee, a hand, a finger, anything makes the combatant a grounded opponent.

Timidity (avoiding contact, or consistent dropping of mouthpiece, or faking an injury): Turning your back, fleeing or falling down is against the rules and referee should issue stern warnings at the first sign and be quick to penalize a timid combatant. The referee should stop the fight immediately when a combatant claims an injury.

Disqualification occurs after any combination of two in a single round of the fouls listed above or after a referee determines the foul was intentional and flagrant.

Fouls assessed by the referee will result in a point deduction by the judge from the offending combatant’s score.

Only a referee can assess a foul. Judges shall not make that assessment and cannot factor such into their scoring calculations.

A fouled combatant has up to five minutes to recuperate.

If a foul is committed, the referee shall: o Call time; o Check the fouled combatant’s condition and safety; and o Assess the foul to the offending contestant, deduct points, and notify each corner’s

seconds, judges and the official scorekeeper.


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*NOTE* If a bottom contestant commits a foul, unless the top contestant is injured, the fight shall continue, so as not to jeopardize the top contestant’s superior positioning at the time. A combatant shall not gain a tactical benefit from a foul.

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 corners’ seconds, the judges and the official scorekeeper.

The referee may terminate a bout based on the severity of a foul. For such a flagrant foul, a contestant shall lose by disqualification.

16. Injuries sustained during competition

If combatant sustains an injury during competition due to a legal maneuver that is severe enough to terminate a bout, the injured contestant loses by technical knockout.

If combatant sustains an injury during competition due an intentional foul is severe enough to terminate a bout, the contestant causing the injury loses by disqualification.

If a combatant sustains an injury during competition due to an intentional foul and the bout continues, the referee shall notify the scorekeeper to deduct two points from the contestant who committed the foul.

If an injury sustained during competition because of an intentional foul cause 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 or she is ahead on the scorecards. If the injured contestant is even or behind on the score cards at the time of stoppage, the outcome of the bout is a technical draw.

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

If an injury sustained during competition due to an accidental foul and the foul is severe enough for the referee to stop the bout immediately, the bout shall result in a no contest if stopped before the combatants complete two rounds in a three round bout or if stopped before three rounds in a five round bout.

If an injury sustained during competition from 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 scorecards at the time the bout referee stops the bout. This happens only when the referee stops the bout when the combatants completed two rounds of a three round bout, or three rounds of a five round bout.

There will be no scoring of an incomplete round. However, if the referee penalizes either contestant, the judge will deduct the appropriate points when they calculate the final score.

17. Types of Bout Results

The following are the types of bout results:

o Submission: Tap Out: When a contestant physically uses his hand to indicate that he or

she no longer wishes to continue; or Verbal tap out: When a contestant verbally announces to the referee that he

or she does not wish to continue;

o Technical knockout:


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Referee stops bout; Ringside physician stops bout; or When an injury as a result of a legal maneuver is severe enough to terminate

a bout;

o Decision via score cards: Unanimous: When all three judges score the bout for the same contestant; Split Decision: When two judges score the bout for one contestant and

one judge scores for the opponent; or Majority Decision: When two judges score the bout for the same contestant

and one judge scores a draw;

o Draws: Unanimous - When all three judges score the bout a draw;

Majority - When two judges score the bout a draw; or

Split - When all three judges score differently and the score total results in a

draw;

Disqualification: When an injury sustained during competition due to an intentional foul is severe enough to terminate the contest;

o Forfeit: When a contestant fails to begin competition or prematurely ends the contest for reasons other than injury or by indicating a tap out,

o Technical Decision: When an injury sustained during competition due to an intentional foul, causes the injured contestant to be unable to continue. If the bout has reached the second round, the scorecards will determine the outcome of the bout.

o Technical Decision: When the bout is prematurely stopped due to injury and a

contestant is leading on the score cards; and

o No Contest: When the referee stops a contest due to accidental injury and a sufficient number of rounds have not been completed to render a decision via the scorecards.

Licensing o All mixed martial arts events shall be subject to the licensing requirements of the State

Commission. o The fee for a mixed martial artist license shall be as set forth by the State Commission o Any official who works non licensed events shall be subject to disciplinary action

All mixed martial arts events shall be subject to the presence of inspectors as required by the Commission

Health and safety rules o All mixed martial arts events shall be subject to the medical requirements of the

Commission o All mixed martial arts events shall be subject to the emergency medical facilities and

equipment requirements of the Commission.


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o All mixed martial arts events shall be subject to the insurance requirements of the Commission.

Weighing of mixed martial artists o Weighing of all mixed martial artists shall take place in accordance with the

requirements for professional and amateur combatants as directed by the Commission. IX. Pre-fight duties It is the responsibility of the referee to make certain that the bouts shall take place pursuant to the rules and regulations in effect, and to insure the safety of the participants. You must review and familiarize yourself with the current rules and regulations and any special rules of the supervising Athletic Commission. Report to the event location a minimum of one hour prior to the scheduled start of the bouts, and check in with the Commissioner at the event. Be on time and available for any pre-fight meetings with other officials. You must meet with the Physician and emergency personnel to determine their seat assignments at cage-side/ringside during the bouts. This is also a good time to discuss the method of notification as to when you want them to enter the ring and attend to an injured participant, or check any cuts or other minor injuries from the ring apron. This is also a good time to meet with the timekeeper and Judges and discuss the method to sound the ten second warning to start the next round. They may use a whistle, hammer or wood block, etc. You should make every effort to limit contact with any of the participants, combatants, seconds, trainers, managers or any individual connected with a particular combatant. You must keep yourself as objective as humanly possible, and do not let friendships or associations appear where any person might suggest your objectivity and integrity are being compromised. Visit the dressing rooms of the participants with a representative of the Commission, and have the chief second identified for you. Advise them of their responsibilities which are:

Complete responsibility of all corner activities

Any problems or infractions of the rules in the corner will be their responsibility, and you will consult with him or her only

X. Dressing room instructions Bout control starts in the locker room at the pre-fight instructions. Although combatants are expected to know both the general rules of MMA regarding amateur and professional three (3) round bouts and the professional five (5) round bout should it be a championship bout, this is the time to recite the MMA rules that will govern the bout including fouls and expected behavior of each combatants If the referee does individual pre-fight instructions, they should seize this opportunity for a one on one conversation with the combatant and stress key issues that may come up in the bout. This is the best opportunity that you will have to give specific instructions to a combatant and establish your authority and emphasize that you will control the bout at all times. This is your last opportunity to establish what you will do and most importantly, what you expect them to do in key situations. Address any questions or concerns that they raise. Advise the combatant and the seconds that you are aware of the importance of their bout, and assure them that you will give them your best effort.


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It is critical to your success as the referee to know your combatants. While you enforces rules and procedures uniformly across the board there will be differences in how you approach one bout over another. For example, you will be more protective of combatants who are in their first year in the sport than you will be of seasoned professionals. If a young combatant is trapped in a submission, you should be faster to intervene to prevent an injury while competitors at higher levels should be given more freedom to try to work their way out with the understanding they understand the risk. Regardless of whether you give the instructions in a group setting or a one-on-one setting the referee should take the opportunity to discuss key issues such as: A) Unsportsmanlike – Head butting, Low Blow and Holding the Cage Briefly go over fouls in general, but discuss the three most common fouls in detail. It is important that the combatants understand that they must follow your rules and commands at all time while in the cage/ring. B) Verbal Commands and Hand Signals If you use any hand signals or commands now is the time to explain to them how and when you plan to use them. Discuss breaking or separating the combatants, specific commands and stress your expectations when giving the commands. C) Stand ups and other Stops of Action Discuss with the combatants what criteria you plan to use for standing them up and restarting a bout. Explain how you plan to warn them and how you plan to warn them and what the restart procedure you will use. D) End of the Round Procedure This is a good time position yourself so that you are able to step between the combatants when the bell sounds to end the round. When the bell sounds to end the round, you need to say in a clear voice “TIME”, and at the same time step in close to the contestants and hand signal the end of the round. In most instances, you as the referee must physically impose yourself between the combatants or physically restrain one of the combatants. The Combatants must understand that they are not permitted to continue fighting after the bell sounds or you indicate by hand signal or by voice that the round has ended. E) Mouthpiece Procedure Explain to the combatant how you will handle a dislodged mouthpiece and the consequences of spitting it out deliberately. If during a knockdown the combatant loses their mouthpiece, it is your decision whether the combatant spit out the mouthpiece or it became dislodged because of a legal punch. The mouthpiece must be properly set in the combatant’s mouth at all times during a bout. Points may be deducted and or a disqualification rendered by the referee in the following instances;

If the mouthpiece is not being properly kept inside of the combatant mouth

If the mouthpiece is being purposely spit out

If the corner fails to have the combatant resume fighting with a mouthpiece in place, and or delays in replacing it after it has become dislodged

XI. Cage-side/ring-side checklist You should enter the ring at least ½ hour prior to the start of the bouts and check the check the floor covering and the cage. Check for any loose floorboards. If there are any problems with the cage, floor covering or floorboards, determine who is in charge of maintenance to have the problem corrected. This is a good time to have any debris or foreign material removed from the cage floor. It is important to determine that you know the stationing of the maintenance crew during the bouts. Make a mental note of the locations of the stairs (cage entrance), the cage-side physician, the emergency medical technicians (EMT), timekeeper, and judges. Also note where the neutral corner will be (the neutral corner is generally directly opposite the cage door.)


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XII. Duties of the referee upon combatants entering the ring When the combatants enter the ring, you will conduct your final inspection prior to the start of the bout. Areas of concern will be:

Check the gloves to make sure that they have not been twisted or damaged

Check for proper taping of the gloves, no loose ends or debris, verify that the gloves have been initialed by the Commission inspector

Check the mouthpiece in the participants’ mouth

Ask combatant if they have their groin protector

Make a general inspection of the participants for such things as excessive grease, body piercing adornments, earrings or jewelry

When you bring the combatants to the center of the ring for any final instructions the combatants should be ready to start fighting at the command of the referee.

Advise the combatants and their chief seconds that they have received their instructions in the dressing room. Ask at this time if they have any questions, if not, remind the participants to protect themselves at all times, obey your commands, touch gloves and start fighting at the sound of the bell.

XIII. Positioning during the bout Positioning during the bout is very important for you to be able to see all of the action, and ensure the safety of the participants. You should maintain enough distance between yourself and the participants to be out of the way yet close enough to take appropriate action in the event of a foul or knockout. Keep the following in mind during the course of the bout:

Stay out of the way as much as possible. Always remember that your movement around the combatants must be such as not to obstruct the view of the judges

Circle the combatants as much as necessary to maintain a position that allows you to have the best view between them. Make sure that you are in front of the Combatants and not behind them to ensure that they do not obstruct your view and you are able to see what is occurring.

Be close enough to take immediate action if needed, but far away enough not to interfere.

Concentrate on the combatants, the progress of the bout, and the safety of the participants and ignore the spectators or anything that is happening outside of the ring. You must stay alert at all times as to the action that is taking place in the cage/ring.

When combatants are on the ground, you should get to their level while remaining mobile. Remember you should be able to see the face of both combatants.

If you feel a combatant is in trouble, in a positional disadvantage or is close to a submission be sure to close the distance you can stop the fight quickly.

XIV. Shortening the distance There is no set rule, but there are some situations where a referee should shorten his distance to the combatants. Generally, the referee should shorten his distance in the following cases:

During a difficult and tough bout

When combatants are moving towards or fighting on the cage wall

When the fighting ability of one of the combatants is in doubt and a stoppage may be eminent

When there is a good deal of noise and verbal commands may not be easily heard

At the sound of the timekeeper, signals ten (10) seconds remain in the round.

When the fight is on the ground, the referee should try to be at the combatants’ level to ensure they can see the action. Remember, you should always be able to see the face of both combatants.


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XV. Knockdowns and stunned combatants If a combatant is knocked down, you must move quickly and determine that combatant’s ability to defend him or herself. Make a quick analysis of the fallen participant, if he suffers a knock out; stop the bout by controlling the winning combatant. It is critical you act quickly to prevent a defenseless combatant from taking further damage. If the combatant has suffered a knocked-out, summon the cage-side physician, remove the mouthpiece if possible and keep everyone away from the fallen combatant until the physician is in the cage and takes charge. Once you make the determination that one of the combatants is unable to continue, stop the fight by first controlling the dominant combatant. Be sure that you control the dominant combatant but take care not to injure or endanger them. Once you stop the dominant combatant and you send them to the neutral corner, make the signal that the fight is over and call in the cage-side physician if necessary. Stop the fight if:

Combatant is not intelligently defending himself. Turning his head or simply covering on the ground is not an intelligent defense.

When a combatant is unable to protect him or the contest is so one-sided that it is no longer competitive. The health and safety of the contestants are the most important factors in making a determination as to whether to allow a bout to proceed or stop it.

A referee can stop a bout between rounds. As the combatant returns to the corner between rounds, observe whether the combatant fits any of the following:

Appears lost

Appears confused

Appears lethargic

Is not responding to questions No one has a better view of the combatant than the referee does. Work as a team with the cage-side physician. It is better to waive off a bout too soon and prevent serious injury. XVI. Procedure following a cut, head-butt, or low blow If a cut occurs, identify and designate as quickly as possible whether a legal blow or an illegal move caused it. If it was an illegal move, once that particular action is over, separate the combatants, and direct each to a neutral corner. Advise whether it was intentional or not. If it becomes necessary for the physician to examine the cut, call a timeout if you have not done so and take the injured combatant to the physician. The opposing combatant must stay in a neutral corner (opposite the door where the physician enters the cage). Corner men are to stay in their assigned corner unless instructed otherwise.

Make certain the seconds or trainers do not interfere with the physician and the physician has a clear view of the injury

Whether the contest should be stopped or continue is up to the referee, but the medical opinion of the physician should be given great consideration and rarely, if ever overruled by the referee if the question is one in which medical expertise is needed

Cuts on the eyelid and deep in the brow are dangerous and may require the bout to be stopped more quickly than others

The physician should not treat the injury, but should inspect, observe and render an opinion as to whether the bout can continue


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XVII. Low Blows If a combatant hit below the belt line claims incapacitation because of the foul, the combatant will be entitled to a rest period of up to five (5) minutes in duration. The combatant must continue after the rest period or the referee rules the fight over. The result of the fight will depend on whether the referee ruled the low blow intentional or unintentional. The applicable rule and regulation of the Commission will take precedent upon the referee’s determination if the low blow was intentional or unintentional. The referee bases the decision of the outcome of the bout on the interpretation and application of the rule. XVIII. Enforcement of Fouls The referee must immediately declare if a blow was legal or a foul and if a foul, if it was intentional or accidental. Intentional Fouls

If an intentional foul causes an injury, and the injury is severe enough to terminate the bout immediately, the combatant causing the injury shall lose by Disqualification.

If an intentional foul causes an injury and the referee allow the bout to continue, the referee will notify the authorities and deduct (1) points from the combatant who caused the foul. Point deductions for intentional fouls will be mandatory.

If an intentional foul causes an injury and the injury results in the referee stopping the bout in a later round, the one round rule will apply. Judges will score the incomplete rounds for tabulation in the final score.

In these cases, if the injured combatant is ahead, he will win by TECHNICAL DECISION. If the injured combatant is even or behind on the scorecards, the result of the bout will be a TECHNICAL DRAW.

Accidental Fouls

If an accidental foul causes an injury severe enough for the referee to stop the bout immediately and the first (1st) round is not complete at the time of the stoppage, the bout will result in a NO DECISION.

Ant accidental foul that causes an injury severe enough for the referee to stop the bout immediately and it is after the first (1st) round was completed, the one round rule will apply. That is, if the referee stops the bout after the combatants have completed the first round the judges will score the scorecards to include the scoring of any incomplete rounds as if it were a complete round. The referee awards a TECHNICAL DECISION to the combatant ahead on points.

XIX. Referee action on fouls At the most opportune time, the referee shall inform the Commission representative of the following:

That the foul was accidental or intentional

The type of foul

If point(s) will be deducted from the offending combatant

If the offending combatant will be disqualified

That the five (5) minute rule will be or will not be in effect

That the four (1) round rule will or will not be applied

If the bout will or will not continue XX. Concussive head impact fouls If the referee temporarily stops a bout because of an accidental foul to the head, the referee shall determine whether the injured combatant can continue or not. If the foul does not seriously


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jeopardizes the injured combatant’s chance of winning, and if the foul did not involve a concussive impact to the head of the fouled combatant, the five (5) minute rule is applied. The referee bases his decision consultation with the cage-side physician. If the referee determines that the bout may not continue because of an accidental foul that caused a concussive head impact injury, the one-round rule is applied. XXI. The five (5) minute rule In cases where a foul, other than a foul that causes a concussive head impact, and the foul has not seriously jeopardized the injured combatant changes of winning, the referee may allow a reasonable recovery period not to exceed five (5) minutes. This same time limit applies to low blows and cuts. XXII. Disqualification of combatant(s) The following are some good examples to keep in mind when making a determination of a disqualification:

Continuous, intentional fouls after a referee warning with corresponding point deductions.

Abusive and extreme un-sportsmanlike conduct

After repeated warnings to the corner, or when any second mounts the cage-ring apron or climbs on the cage and projects himself into the contest causing a distraction to the combatants

XXIII. On the Ground Groundwork is an integral part of the sport of Mixed Martial Arts. The referee must position himself in a manner to see all the action that is happening on the ground. The Commission expects a referee to be well versed in ground striking and submission skills to be able to recognize danger to a combatant. Referees need to demonstrate a working knowledge of the following:

Ground Striking top and bottom

Arm Locks

Leg Locks

Strangles

Neck Cranks

Body Locks

Other submissions

XXIV. Stoppage Protocols Referees have the primary responsibility of the combatant’s safety. The referee must intervene and end a fight if a combatant is incapable, or unwilling to defend him or herself in an intelligent manner. A referee also must act in the interest of fairness and allowing the combatants the best opportunity to determine the outcome of the bout without interference. The referee can stop a bout for a number of reasons including, but limited to, termination of the bout, and inaction, cuts, and status, administration of discipline, warning or foul, outside influence that could affect the safety or outcome of the bout. The referee can stop a bout in three manners. Intervention, Touch or Restraint Intervention: An Intervention stop means that the referee imposes himself physically between the combatants. The combatants must immediately disengage once the referee has placed his/her body in between them. The referee will then issue the combatants further instructions via hand gestures and vocal commands.


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Touch or Freeze stoppage. The referee stops the combatants by touching the combatants and saying, “STOP.” Combatants should immediately freeze in place. Once the referee touches the combatants and gives the command to stop, the combatants must immediately cease all attacking action. Combatants are advised to continue to have a defensive posture until out of each other’s physical proximity. The referee will then issue the combatants further instructions via hand gestures and vocal commands. Restraining Stop. In the case where a combatant is in immediate danger, the referee will use a restraining stop. The objective is to stop the dominant combatant from doing any further damage while at the same time not making the combatant vulnerable or causing the restrained combatant injury. The referee can stop the fight for a variety of reasons. Inaction. A referee can stop a fight while the combatants are on the ground or are on their feet if the combatants are determined to have reached a stalemate or both combatants have failed to improve their position. The referee will issue a warning prior to stopping the action. He will then stand the combatants and immediately re-start the action. Cut Stoppage. If the referee determines a cut on a combatant presents a danger to the combatant, or is, affecting the fight the referee will stop the bout by the most appropriate method. The referee will use their best discretion to make the stoppage as is prudent to safety but with the most minimal impact on the outcome of the fight. The referee orders the cut combatant to the door while the other combatant moves to the neutral corner. The physician examines the cut and determines if they should stop the fight. It they permit the combatant to continue, the combatant’s corner, or an assigned cut-man will have up to 5 minutes to get bleeding from a cut stopped. If the fight has is stopped a second time within a round for the same cut the fight is over. When the fight is re-started it is started in the closest approximate position the combatants where in when the fight was stopped Status: A referee at any time can stop a fight to check the status of a combatant. The referee can do a quick evaluation of the combatant, no more then 2 seconds. The referee will determine to terminate the fight or allow it to continue. If the referee determines the combatant is dazed or otherwise on the verge of suffering serious injury they are to terminate the bout. If the referee determines the combatant can continue he will quickly restart them in place. It is recommended the referee use a “touch” or intervening stoppage in such circumstances

If during a count, a combatant refuses to go to or deliberately fails to remain in the neutral corner indicated to him by the referee

To consult with the cage-side physician

To adjust equipment Discipline: A referee may stop a fight to issue a warning for a foul. The referee has wide discretion in the matter of the issuance of warnings for fouls. The guiding principle is that the offending combatant should not gain advantage from their action or the action of warning. If the offending combatant is in a disadvantaged position when they commit the foul the referee should not stop the fight to give a penalty, as this would reward the offending combatant by getting him out of the compromised circumstance. If the offending combatant has gained an advantage from an infraction, the referee should stop the action and restart in the most appropriate position.


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EXAMPLE: Combatant A picks up and attempts to throw combatant B on the ground. Combatant B grabs the cage causing combatant A to fall with combatant B falling on top of him/her. The referee should stop the fight at this point. The referee should give combatant B a warning for use of the cage and restart the fight with combatant A in a position the referee determines was the likely outcome of their throw. Outside interference: The Referee will stop the bout by the most appropriate means in the event that an outside force could affect the outcome of the bout. This includes but not limited to actions by the corners, combatants, production staff or equipment issues.

XXV. Refereeing a bout inside a ring

A ring presents a far more dangerous environment for the combatants than a cage. The number one most important piece of safety equipment in an MMA event is the cage. With a ring, the more obvious danger is the combatants falling out of the ring and crashing to the ground. They can be thrown or fall awkwardly and the ropes present a hazard to limbs and neck. The ring also presents a challenge in that the referee may stop the bout frequently as combatants may end up, under, or become entangled in the ropes. If a fight needs to be restarted because combatants get tangled or are under the ropes, the referee should bring them to the center of the ring and use the same re-start procedures as after a cut stoppage.

XXVII. Conclusion The referee should always keep in mind that their job is to make certain the bout is conducted consistent with the rules and regulations of the Commission, and any approved special rules. Your job is to protect the safety of the combatants, and never allow yourself to be intimidated by any combatant, manager, second, trainer, any person connected with promotion or anyone else. The referee must be in charge at all times. Every bout is important to the combatants, and it is important that you let them know that you will give them your best effort and that you expect the same in return.


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Judges

I. Introduction There is an enormous amount of pressure on judges to “get it right.” The problem is that no matter what choice you make there will always be someone who thinks you have made the wrong choice. A good judge needs to be fair, be a keen observer and be able to articulate his/her reasoning without being defensive or argumentative. Documenting your reasons is important to being a good judge. Judges are provisionally licensed for their first 1 years of active judging and must have 50 bouts before they are to be considered fully, professionally licensed II. Dress

Judges are issued a burgundy polo shirt (includes the Commission logo and the word Judge embroidered on the shirt) and they should wear this shirt with dress slacks to assure a professional appearance. Females should wear the polo shirt and dress in slacks or appropriate skirt. In some cases, the Commission may direct judges to wear a specific identifying shirt.

III. Pre bout preparation

When you accept an assignment to work:

If you have any conflict of interest or other concerns regarding the assignment, contact the Commission or the Commissioner at the event and discuss the matter with him/her immediately. Do not accept an assignment if your concerns have not been addressed and resolved.

Report all concerns to the Commission as soon as possible.

You should always report to the Commissioner at least 30 minutes before the scheduled start time.

You are professional sports official and very much in the public eye. A neat and clean appearance is required.

Ensure that you have plenty of rest before the event and have cleared your mind of any issues that could become a distraction while working the bouts; you will want to eliminate the possibility of breaking your concentration. You should have a good meal that will sit well with you throughout the program, and watch your liquid intake.

The consumption of any alcoholic beverage within 24 hours of the event will result in your being disqualified to work the bouts and may result in disciplinary action to include the loss of your professional license issued by the Commission.

Smoking is prohibiting at ringside.

If you find yourself ill on the day of the event or prior to the event, you must advise the Commission immediately.

The most important tool that you will utilize as a judge is your eyes. A judge must have an annual eye examination and a minimum of 20/40 vision either corrected or uncorrected.

Be prepared to take your seat assignment at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled start time for the matches.

Make sure that you have an unobstructed view of the cage/ring, and if there are any problems with the press, photographers or spectators, notify the Commissioner immediately.


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Make sure that you have a sufficient number of working pens and bout forms.

The decisions that you render will have a major impact on the life and career of the combatants that you judge. Do not take this responsibility lightly.

Be on time, be informed, be alert and most importantly be prepared to render your undivided attention to the bout you are scoring. You must be able to focus and concentrate solely on the bout you are scoring. Ask any questions, and clear up any concerns or issues that you may have prior to taking your place at cage-side/ring-side and beginning your task of scoring the bout.

PRIOR TO A BOUT

As a judge, you must sit separate from other judges immediately adjacent to the cage, with an unobstructed view. Each judge will sit near the center of the cage/ring of the side that the Commission assigns him or her.

To avoid any confusion, identify the contestants as they enter the ring. Make notations on the scorecard as to who is who, and make sure that your scorecard has the name of the combatant listed in the proper corner assignments.

Make sure that you properly record all information on the scorecards. If there is any doubt in your mind, ask the referee who in turn will communicate with the Commission at cage-side/ring-side prior to the start of the bout. Whatever you do, do not leave your assigned position; let the referee handle situations after you have communicated them to him/her.

V. Judging criteria

Judges shall evaluate mixed martial arts techniques, such as effective striking, effective grappling, and control of the fighting area, effective aggressiveness and defense. You give the highest weight to damage done.

You judge effective striking by determining the total number of legal heavy strikes landed by a contestant. Heavy strikes are ones that stun, knock down or drive back an opponent. Strikes often cut an opponent. A judge must not overweight a cut. While a cuts are evidence of some damage they often look worse than it is. Look for strikes that affect an opponent’s ability to attack. Principally the key to judging strike is damage done. If a punch lands but lacks power and does no damage, it is worthless.

You judge effective grappling by considering the amount of control a combatant demonstrates on the ground. You judge the ability of the combatant to keep their opponent in a dominated position from which they can land effective strikes or threaten with submissions. A judge must be able to recognize who is being the more offensive or controlling combatants when on the ground; it will not always be the man on top. Examples of factors to consider are gaining mount or side control, passing the guard to mount position, and bottom position combatants using an active, threatening guard. Be sure to be mindful of striking on the ground. Look for damage done.

You judge effective takedowns are takedowns by the force of the take down and the position it nets the combatant. A combatant who gets an opponent to the ground but without force and ends up being controlled in their opponents guard will get little credit for that take down. Solid takedowns should put the opponent on the ground hard and reap a positional advantage like side control or mount.

Fighting area control is judged by determining who is dictating the pace, location and position of the bout.


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Examples of factors to consider are countering a grappler’s attempt at takedown by remaining standing and legally striking and taking down an opponent to force a ground fight; creating threatening submission attempts, passing the guard to achieve mount, and creating striking opportunities.

Effective aggressiveness means moving forward and landing a legal strike

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

Use the following objective scoring criteria when scoring a round; 1. You score a round as a 10-10 Round when both combatants appear to be fighting evenly and

neither combatant shows clear dominance in a round 2. You score a round as a 10-9 Round when a combatant wins by a close margin, landing the greater

number of effective legal strikes, grappling and other maneuvers 3. You score a round as a 10-8 Round when a combatant overwhelmingly dominates by striking or

grappling in a round. 4. You score a round as a 10-7 Round when a combatant totally dominates by striking or grappling in

a round. Judges shall use a sliding scale and recognize the length of time the combatants are either standing or on the ground, as follows:

If the mixed combatants spent a majority of a round on the canvas, then:.: Effective grappling is weighed first; and Effective striking is then weighed

If the combatants spent a majority of a round standing, then: Effective striking is weighed first; and Effective grappling is then weighed

If a round ends with a relatively even amount of standing and canvas fighting, striking and grappling you must weigh each equally.

VI. Completion of the scorecard

The referee is the only official that can penalize a contestant for a foul. Judges must deduct points for infractions when the referee officially designates a foul and point deduction.

Before the start of the bout, you must fill out all of your bout scorecards. Be sure you have the names of the combatants correct and double check you have the correct red and blue corner distinctions. You must be able to explain your decision, so use the blank areas on the scorecards for notes.

Double-check your math before handing your scorecard to the referee. If you made a mistake on the scorecard, correct and initial your scorecard and inform the referee of your mistake and correction.

The Head judge will pick up the cards at the conclusion of the bout and turn them over to the Commissioner at cage-side/ring-side.

SEE SAMPLE SCORECARDS ON NEXT TWO PAGES:


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Minnesota Combative Sports Commission

Mixed Martial Arts Score Card Championship Bout

Promoter: City Date Judge

Weight Class Name: Name:

Points Points

Deducted Score Round Points Points

Deducted Score

1

2

3

4

5

Total Net score

→ Total Net Score

→

Results

Remarks ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________

REFEREE NAME Signature of Commission Representative Printed Name of Commission Representative


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Minnesota Combative Sports Commission Mixed Martial Arts Score Card Judge

NAME

BOUT

1

NAME NAME BOUT

2

NAME

POINTS ROUND 1 POINTS ROUND 1

POINTS ROUND 2 POINTS ROUND 2 POINTS ROUND 3 POINTS ROUND 3 POINTS TOTAL POINTS TOTAL WON BY IN ROUND WON BY IN ROUND

NAME

BOUT

3

NAME NAME BOUT

4

NAME



NAME

BOUT

5

NAME NAME BOUT

6

NAME




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VII. After completion of the bout

The judges will remain seated at ringside until the referee announces the winner, unless security concerns require the judges to leave the cage-side/ring-side area.

All officials should be accessible to the Commissioner(s) immediately after the bouts.

VIII. Point deduction scoring

When the referee declares a foul and deducts point(s), the judge must write the amount of the deduction on his scorecard at that moment. Should the referee take additional points the judge must draw a line through his/her original deduction and put in the new point deduction, he/she must initial the corrected amount. Only the referee can declare point deductions for fouls.


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References

Association of Boxing Commissioners (ABC) MMA Referee and Judge Training Outline (Effective Date 10/29/2009)

Association of Boxing Commissions Official Certification Program for Judges and Referees

Association of Boxing Commissions Referee Rules and Guidelines - Updated July 14, 2008

Association of Boxing Commissions Unified Rules of Mixed Martial Arts

California Department of Consumer Affairs, State Athletic Commission Laws & Regulations Governing Boxing & Martial Arts in California (Including the Federal Boxing Act OF 1996)

Minnesota Boxing Commission Rules of Operation:

Minnesota Statutes:

214.06 Fees; License Renewals

214.07 Reports

214.09 Membership; Compensation; Removal; Vacancies

214.10 Complaint, Investigation, and Hearing

Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 341, Boxing Commission

Minnesota Statute 341.25 Rules, Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) Unified Rules

Minnesota Statutes 2007, Chapter 214 – Examining and Licensing Boards

Minnesota Uniform Rules, Chapter 2202, Combative Sports Commission, Combative Sport

Mixed Martial Arts Official’s Hand Book by Mike Reilly

North Dakota Boxing Commission - Chapter 72-02.2-02 Athletic Commissioner and Mixed Fighting Style Advisory Board

Strikeforce Rules

MMA Officials Handbook - Minnesota Combative Sports Commission

Documents

Transcript of MMA Officials Handbook - Minnesota Combative Sports Commission