Boxing Kickboxing and Mixed Martial Arts

Rules

Colorado Office of Boxing 
and 
Colorado State Boxing Commission

Effective September 1, 2011
CHAPTER I
GENERAL RULES

1.1	DEFINITIONS

A. 	Bout. Match, exhibition or contest between two participants.

B. 	Chief Inspector.  An official assigned to carry out all duties as assigned by the director.

C.  	Event.  A compilation of bouts that occur at one location during a single day.

D. 	Fraud. Any licensee who cheats, obtains money or some other benefit, or misrepresents facts by deliberate and willful deception. 
	
E. 	Kick. A strike using the foot or feet.

F. 	Official.  Any person who performs an official function during the supervision  of a contest or exhibition. This includes referees, judges, timekeepers and inspectors.

G. 	Non-Sanctioned organization. Is an organization that is not governed by a state or tribal athletic commission.  	

H. 	Participant. Any individual who participates in a bout.
	
I.  	Promoter. Any person, association, corporation, organization, who is licensed to promote 
  	events. 

J.  	Purse.  Is a bout earning, a financial guarantee or any other remuneration for which participants are participating in a contest or exhibition and includes the participant’s share of any payment received for radio broadcasting, television or motion picture rights.

K.  	Reinstatement.  The process by which a license as a promoter or an official has expired is returned to Active status.
L.  	Renewal.  The process of applying to retain a license as a promoter or an official in an Active status every two years in accordance with the schedule established by the division of registrations pursuant to Sections 12-10-106.5, C.R.S. and 24-34-102, C.R.S. 
M. 	Sanctioned Organization.  An organization that sanctions professional bouts of boxing, kickboxing or mixed martial arts by a state or tribal athletic commission.

1.2 	VIOLATIONS OF RULES 

Violations of any provision of these rules may result in immediate ejection from event, a ban from future events and subject to disciplinary action. 

1.3  	RESPONSIBILITY

All promoters, participants, seconds and officials associated with the events shall acquaint themselves with all applicable laws and rules of the Commission.  

1.4	IMPROPER CONDUCT, FOUL OR ABUSIVE LANGUAGE EJECTION

A.	The use of foul or abusive language or mannerisms or threats of physical harm by any person at any permitted event shall not be tolerated. This includes all press conferences, weigh ins any aspect of an event. In addition, prohibited conduct includes unfair dealings, unsportsmanlike conduct, protesting the decisions of the officials, or violating any laws or rules.  

B.	If improper conduct occurs at any permitted event, the director may eject the individual and forbid such person from acting in any capacity in connection with that or any subsequent permitted event.  Any licensee who refuses to obey an order by the director to leave the premises because of conduct prohibited in this paragraph, or any person who returns to the premises in violation of the director’s order may be subject to further disciplinary action.

1.5	MODIFICATION OF BOUT RESULT 

A.	Only the director may request a hearing on a result modification matter after the director determines that one or more of the following incidents has occurred: 

i.  There were indications of collusion affecting the result of the bout;

ii.  The compilation of the scorecards of the judges disclosed an error which showed that the decision     
     was given to the wrong participant; or

iii.  As the result of interpreting the rules in error, the referee rendered an incorrect decision. 

CHAPTER 2
REQUIREMENTS FOR PARTICIPANTS IN ALL BOUTS

2.1	LICENSE OR PERMIT TO FIGHT APPLICATIONS 

All participants shall submit an application for a license or a permit to fight per event in a manner prescribed by the director. Incomplete or incorrect applications will not be accepted.

2.2	FEES

Each applicant for a license or permit shall pay the required fee before the license or permit to fight is granted.  The license and permit fee schedule is established by the director of registrations pursuant to Section 24-34-105, C.R.S.

 2.3 	MINIMUM AGE REQUIREMENT

Any person who wishes to apply for a participant license must be a minimum age of eighteen, unless a signed verification of approval and waiver is signed by the parent or legal guardian and the director approves. No participant under the age of eighteen years shall be allowed to participate in a professional debut bout.

2.4	WEIGH-INS AND FIGHT APPEARANCE 

A.	Each participant must be weighed in the presence of a commission representative as designated by the director, on scales approved by the commission at a place designated by the director. The participants may have all items of weight stripped from their body before they are weighed in. The owner or operator of the premises in which the weighing in is held shall provide adequate security for the participants and other persons who are present. All participants shall appear at the weigh in and event on time as required by the director. All participants must report to the director as soon as they arrive to the weigh in and event at a place designated by the director.  Failure to report to the director on time may disqualify the participant from competing and may be subject to disciplinary action.  Unless a championship bout, participants’ weights will be rounded down to the nearest pound.  The weigh in shall be no less than six hours prior and no more than 30 hours prior to the scheduled event. The director may require participants to be weighed more than once for just cause.

B. 	Participants are not allowed to leave the designed weigh in area until such time as they are notified by the Director or the chief inspector.  

2.5	FAILURE TO MAKE WEIGHT

A participant who fails to make weight at the scheduled time of weigh in may be disqualified from competing and may be subject to disciplinary action. 

2.6	PARTICIPANTS' APPEARANCE

A. 	All participants shall be clean and present an organized appearance. The director or the chief inspector has the discretion to determine whether facial adornments (mustaches, goatees, excessive sideburns) and hair length presents any potential hazard to the safety of the participants, or interfere with the supervision and conduct of the bout.  

B. 	Earrings, jewelry of any kind, and body piercing adornments are prohibited during the bout.  

C. 	Excessive use of petroleum jelly or other substances shall not be permitted.  The referee or chief inspector at ring or cage side shall remove excessive substances.

D.	The participant's hair shall be cut or arranged in such a manner as not to interfere with the participant's vision.  Hair may be secured using rubber bands or other banding devices but not using hairpins or hairnets. The hair must be free of all hair styling agents (i.e. mousse, gel, or spray).

2.7	APPROVED RING ATTIRE

Each participant in an event shall prepare themselves with appropriate ring attire for the sport as approved by the director which may include an abdominal guard, a protective cup, two pair of trunks of contrasting color, shoes, and two approved, and properly-fitted mouthpieces.  

2.8 	MOUTHPIECE REQUIREMENTS

All participants are required to wear a mouthpiece during competition. The round shall not begin without the proper placement of the mouthpiece. If the mouthpiece is dislodged during competition, the referee will call time and have the mouthpiece replaced at the first available opportunity, without interfering with the immediate action. Points may be deducted if the mouthpiece is purposely dislodged. 

2.9	GLOVE REQUIREMENTS

The participant or the second is responsible for ensuring that gloves are not twisted or manipulated in any way.  If a glove breaks or a string becomes untied during the bout, the referee will instruct the timekeeper to take time out while the glove is corrected.  All gloves will be checked by a commission representative prior to the start of a bout and any snagged, torn, or unfit gloves will not be approved for competition.

2.10 	PROHIBITED SUBSTANCES

All participants are prohibited from using any drugs, alcohol, or stimulants, either before or during a bout.  Any substance other than plain water or a sports drink approved by the director is prohibited during the event.  

2.11	DELAY OF BOUTS

Preliminary participants shall be ready to enter the ring or cage immediately after the conclusion of the preceding bout.  Any participant causing a delay of more than five minutes when called may be subject to disciplinary action.  

2.12	OUT OF STATE SUSPENSIONS

All suspensions of participants  by another state or tribal athletic commission may be recognized by the Colorado State Boxing Commission.  Acceptable verification of license status includes but is not limited to: a new fight fax showing that the participant is not on suspension or verification that the participant is not listed on the record keepers’ database.  

2.13     PARTICIPANTS WHO ENGAGE IN NON-SANCTIONED BOUTS

A.  	Any participant who engages in a bout that is not sanctioned by a state or tribal athletic commission will not be approved to compete in a sanctioned bout for a minimum of 30 days from the date of the participant’s last non-sanctioned bout and a written clearance from a physician may be required.  

B.  	Any participant who wishes to engage in a sanctioned bout within 30 days from the date of the participant’s last non-sanctioned bout must submit, within ten days of the non- sanctioned bout, written information that demonstrates that the non-sanctioned bout met all the requirements set forth in the Colorado State Boxing Commission Rules for a similar type of bout.  

C.  	A participant who engages in a non-sanctioned bout while on suspension from a state or tribal athletic commission may be required to provide additional medical results before approval to compete is granted.

2.14	ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS OF FEMALE PARTICIPANTS

A.	Restrictions

Participants are restricted to participate in competition between their own gender.

B.	Pregnancy Test

Participants shall submit a doctor’s written verification of a negative pregnancy test dated within seven days of a scheduled event.  The cost of the test is the responsibility of the participant. The examining physician may fully evaluate a participants’ medical history as they deem appropriate.  

C.	Protective Equipment

Participants must wear protective equipment as applicable in this rule in addition to a breast protector or a sports bra.  The breast protector or sports bra must be well fitted and not interfere with the participant's ability to compete.

D.	Number of Rounds

The number of rounds and time limits may vary depending on the sport.  In all contests, the number of rounds will be specified.  

	

CHAPTER 3
REQUIREMENTS FOR BOUT APPROVAL

3.1	NUMBER OF BOUTS

The director has the discretion to control and limit the number of bouts held in any one event. Bouts in which more than two participants appear in the ring or cage at the same time and bouts between members of the two genders  will not be approved. 

3.2 	BOUT REVIEW

The director reviews the following to determine if a participant is prepared to compete in a bout:  This list includes but is not limited to the following:  

A.	Skill level and ability of their opponent;  
B.	Disparity of age between opponents;  
C.	Consecutive losses or wins or record; 
D.	Recent TKO’ or KO’s; 
E.	Recent injuries; 
F.	Failure to appear at any scheduled weigh in or event;
G.	Failure to compete at any event;
H.	Request of a weight that may be unattainable given their weight history, built, or physique;
I.	Lack of experience with consecutive rounds or bouts;    
J.	Medical test results;  
K.	Professional debut participants verify that they have trained for a minimum of 30 days prior to bout approval.  

3.3	PRE FIGHT PHYSICAL AND MEDICAL EXAMINATIONS 

A.  	All participants must receive a physical or a medical examination from a physician and be declared fit to compete at a time approved by the director and prior to the bout. Any participant deemed to be unfit to participate by the physician will not be permitted to compete. In such instances the promoter will be notified immediately.

B.  	Physicians shall be provided with a suitable place in which to conduct the examinations. The director may require additional medical tests prior to the weigh in and may reject a participant for test results that are incomplete or unsatisfactory or deemed untimely prior to the weigh in. 

C. 	Examination Requirements

Thorough physical examinations will be given to participants and shall include at a minimum, examinations of the following: weight, temperature, pulse (sitting and standing), lungs, blood pressure, heart, venereal disease, urine analysis (when deemed necessary), scrotal evidence of hernia, and general physical condition.  See Rule 2.14 for additional female participant examinations. 

3.4 	MEDICAL TESTS AND RESULTS  

A.  	All participants must provide all medical results required by the director within 48 hours prior the weigh in.  Exceptions may be made for substitutions as determined by the director.  Such medical results include, but are not limited to the following:

	i.	Acceptable HIV;
	ii.	Acceptable Hepatitis B;  
	iii.	Acceptable Hepatitis C. 
	
3.5 	PARTICIPANTS NOT SAFE TO COMPETE

Participants cannot safely engage or compete in a bout where there is the potential of an unfair advantage over their opponent.  As such, if a participant has a medical condition, the  participant may not safely engage in boxing activities and may not be permitted to compete.  Such medical conditions will be reviewed by the director on a case by case basis depending on the sport. 
	
3.6	  PRE-ANNOUNCED AND FOR CAUSE TESTING OF PARTICIPANTS 
          
A.	Pre-Announced Testing:  All participants are subject to pre-announced testing for the use of any illegal substances, drugs or alcohol.  Pre-announced testing shall be conducted at the discretion of the director. In any bout which the director, in his sole discretion, believes the interests of boxing so require and may order that both participants in a bout submit to testing. If the director determines that pre-announced testing of the participants should occur, promoters may be verbally informed before the conclusion of the weigh in. 

B.	For Cause Testing:  If the director has probable cause that a participant may be under the influence of drugs or alcohol or may have taken any performance altering substance, the director may order testing of the participant to determine whether or not the participant has taken, used or ingested any such substance.

C.	Mandatory Testing:  Testing will be mandatory for participants in championship bouts as determined by director.  

3.7	CHAMPIONSHIP BOUTS PROHIBITED WITHOUT COMMISSION APPROVAL

A bout shall not be advertised or promoted or called a championship bout unless it has the specific approval of the Colorado State Boxing Commission.  A promoter shall not advertise any participant in the State of Colorado as a champion or contender in any manner that is false or misleading.

3.8	PROFESSIONAL/AMATEUR BOUTS PROHIBITED 

Bouts between professionals and amateurs are prohibited. Nothing in this rule would prohibit combined Professional/Amateur events.

CHAPTER 4
REQUIREMENTS FOR REGISTRATION AND FEDERAL IDENTIFICATION CARD 

4.1	REGISTRATION AND FEDERAL IDENTIFICATION CARD REQUIRED

The “Professional Boxing Safety Act of 1996" requires all professional boxing participants be registered with the recognized boxing federal registry and obtain a federal identification card in order to participate in boxing bouts anywhere in the United States.  Therefore, all professional boxing participants shall show proof of registration.  Participants must register with the commission in the participant's home state.  In the case of a participant who resides in a state with no commission or a foreign country, the Office of Boxing may issue the card.  An administration fee will be collected from the applicant at the time of application, renewal, or for the replacement of a federal identification card. All Mixed Martial Arts participants must register for a National Identification card.  

4.2	APPROVED IDENTIFICATION

Any boxing debut participant must be registered with a federal identification card within seven days prior to the first bout.  The participant  shall not be permitted to box in any contest scheduled for more than four rounds for the participants first four bouts, and shall not be permitted to compete in any bout of more than six rounds until the participant has participated in ten or more professional bouts, unless approved by the director.

A.	Any two forms of identification listed below are acceptable:

1.	
1.	Voter's registration card;
2.	Valid photo drivers license;
3.	 Social security card;
4.	 School photo ID card; 
5.	 Birth certificate;
6.	 U.S. Military ID card;
7.	 Native American Tribal document;
8.	 U.S. Passport; 
9.	 Certificate of U.S. Citizenship (INS Form N-560 or N-561);
10.	 Certificate of naturalization (INS Form N-550 or N-570);
11.	 Alien registration receipt card with photo (INS Form 1-151 or 1-551); or
12.	 Unexpired reentry permit (INS Form 1-327).

4.3	EXPIRATION OF ALL IDENTIFICATION CARDS

Each participant shall renew their identification card at least once every five years. 

4.4	FEDERAL ID OR REGISTERED FOR A NATIONAL ID REQUIRED TO PARTICIPATE IN EVENTS

Each participant will present their identification card or completed application to the appropriate designee not later than the scheduled time of the weigh in for a bout.  A participant, who is unable to produce their identification card or establish with the director that they have a current federal identification, will not be allowed to participate.

CHAPTER 5
SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS FOR BOXING PARTICIPANTS

5.1	WEIGHT ALLOWANCES

Before a participant will be permitted to fight an opponent who exceeds the weight allowance as shown, the participant must first receive approval by the director: 

POUNDS	CLASSIFICATION	ALLOWANCE	
  191+	Heavyweight	No limit	
190 	Cruiserweight	15 lbs.	
175	Light Heavyweight	8 lbs.	
168	Super Middleweight	8 lbs.	
160	Middleweight	7 lbs.	
154	Junior Middleweight	7 lbs.	
147	Welterweight	7 lbs.	
140	Junior Welterweight	5 lbs.	
135	Lightweight	5 lbs.	
130	Junior Lightweight	5 lbs.	
126	Featherweight	5 lbs.	
122	Junior Featherweight	5 lbs.	
118	Bantamweight	5 lbs.	
115	Junior Bantamweight	5 lbs	
112	Flyweight	5 lbs.	
108	Junior Flyweight	5 lbs.	
105	Minimum Weight	5 lbs.	

5.2	NUMBER AND DURATION OF ROUNDS

The maximum number of rounds is ten  for a  bout, except for a championship bout, which may not exceed twelve rounds.  Three minutes will constitute a round, with a rest period of one minute between rounds, which may be extended at the discretion of the director.  Ten seconds before the beginning or the ending of each round, the timekeeper shall give warning to the seconds by suitable signal. 

5.3	PARTICIPATION RESTRICTIONS

Any participant, who has participated in a bout scheduled for four rounds or more, shall not participate in a contest for at least seven days unless specifically authorized by the director. Main event  participants may be required, at the request of the director, to report and train in public for at least three days in the city where the bout is scheduled to be held. 
 
5.4	RING OCCUPANTS

No person other than the participants and the referee shall enter the ring during a bout.  Between rounds, one second may be inside the ring and the others on the ring apron.  The physician may enter the ring if asked by the referee.  No participant shall leave the ring during any rest period between rounds. The referee may, at their discretion, stop a bout if an unauthorized person enters the ring during a round. The director may also limit unauthorized people from entering the ring at any time during and after an event.

5.5	INTENTIONAL FOULS

A. 	If an intentional foul causes an injury, and the injury is severe enough to immediately terminate a bout, the participant causing the injury shall lose by disqualification.  
B. 	If an intentional foul causes an injury, and the bout is allowed to continue, the referee will notify the authorities and deduct two points from the participant who caused the foul.  Point deductions for intentional fouls will be mandatory. 

C. 	If intentional foul causes an injury and the injury results in the bout being stopped in a later round, the injured participant shall win by Technical Decision if the participant is ahead on the score cards or the bout will result in a Technical Draw if the injured participant is behind or even on the score cards.  

D. 	If a participant injures themselves while attempting to intentionally foul their opponent, the referee will not take any action in their favor, and this injury is the same as one produced by a fair blow.  If a participant has conducted themselves in an unsportsmanlike manner the referee may stop the bout and disqualify the participant. 

5.6	UNINTENTIONAL FOULS 

A. 		If an unintentional foul causes an injury severe enough to immediately stop the bout, the bout will result in a No Contest if stopped before three completed rounds and four completed rounds for championship bouts.  

B. 		If an unintentional foul causes an injury severe enough to immediately stop the bout after three completed rounds and four rounds for championship bouts have occurred, the bout will result in a Technical Decision awarded to the participant who is ahead on the score cards at the time the bout is stopped. Partial or incomplete rounds will be scored.  

C. 	If no action has occurred, the round should be scored as an even round at the discretion of the judges. A fighter who is hit with an accidental low blow must continue after a reasonable amount of time but no more than five minutes or the participant will lose the bout by Technical Knockout (TKO).

5.7	DETERMINATION OF A KNOCKDOWN

A.	A knockdown will be ruled when a participant is hit with the padded knuckle part of the glove on the front or side of the head or the front or side of the body above the belt, and any part of the participant’s body other than their feet is on the floor; or the participant is hanging over the ropes without the ability to protect oneself and cannot fall to the floor.  

B.	A referee may count a participant out if the participant is on the floor or is being held up by the ropes. 

5.8	REFEREE COUNT

A.	If a participant falls due to fatigue, or is knocked down by their opponent, the participant will be allowed ten seconds to rise unassisted.  When such participant falls, their opponent shall go to the farthest neutral corner and remain there while the count is made.  

B. 	A participant shall be deemed down when any part of their body but their feet is on the floor, or the participant is being held up by the ropes.  A referee may count a participant out either on the ropes or on the floor.  

C. 	The referee shall stop counting should the opponent fail to go to such neutral corner, and resume the count where the participant left off when the opponent goes to the neutral corner.  Should a participant who is down rise before the count of ten is reached, and goes back down immediately without being struck by the opponent, the referee shall resume the count where it was left off.  
D. 	Before a participant resumes  after having been knocked, fallen or slipped to the floor, the referee shall wipe any accumulated debris from the participant's gloves.  

E. 	When a mouthpiece is knocked out, the referee may allow the exchange to continue until there is a break in the action.  Timeout shall be called and the mouthpiece rinsed and replaced.

5.9	PARTICIPANT’S RETURN TO RING

A. 	A participant shall receive a 20 second count if they are knocked out of the ring and onto the floor by a legal strike.  The participant is to be unassisted by the second(s).  If assisted by the second(s), the participant shall be disqualified.  

B. 	A participant who has been wrestled, pushed, or has fallen through the ropes during a contest may be helped back by anyone and the referee shall allow reasonable time for the return.  

C. 	When on the ring apron outside the ropes, the participant shall enter the ring immediately.  

D. 	Should the participant stall for time outside the ropes, the referee shall start the count without waiting for the participant to reenter the ring.  

E. 	When one participant has fallen through the ropes, the other participant shall retire to a designated corner and remain there until ordered to continue the bout.  

F. 	A participant who deliberately wrestles or throws an opponent from the ring, or who punches their opponent when they are partly out of the ring and prevented by the ropes from assuming a position of defense may be penalized, disqualified, and  subject to disciplinary action.

5.10	SAVED BY THE BELL

A participant who has been knocked down cannot be saved by the bell in any round.

5.11	THREE KNOCKDOWNS IN THE SAME ROUND –TECHNICAL KNOCKOUT (TKO)

The contest may be stopped at any time by the referee to protect the health and safety of either participant.  A participant who has been ruled by the referee to have been knocked down three times in the same round shall lose by TKO. The three knockdown rule may be waived by the director in championship fights only.

5.12	BOUT TERMINATION DUE TO INJURY - TECHNICAL KNOCKOUT (TKO)

If a participant sustains an injury from a fair blow and the injury is severe enough to terminate the bout, the injured participant will lose by TKO.

5.13	KNOCKDOWN EIGHT COUNT

A. 	In the case of a knockdown, the eight count is mandatory.  A participant who is knocked out, or is technically knocked out shall be suspended for a minimum of 30 days from participating in any event.  

B. 	If a participant is knocked out, or technically knocked out in two consecutive bouts, the participant shall be suspended for a minimum of 60 days from participating in any activity.  

C. 	If a participant is knocked out or technically knocked out in three consecutive bouts, the participant may be suspended for a minimum of one year from participating in any activity. 
 
D. 	The director may require the participant to undergo other medical examinations and submit proof of such examinations and physician clearance to compete in any future bouts.

5.14	TACTICS DEEMED FOULS 

A. 	Hitting below the belt or after the bell has terminated the round;
B. 	Hitting an opponent who is down or who is getting up after being down;
C. 	Holding an opponent or deliberately maintaining a clinch;
D. 	Holding an opponent with one hand and hitting with the other hand;
E. 	Butting with the head or shoulder or using a knee;
	F. 	Hitting with the glove laces or the heal of the hand, the wrist, or elbow and all back hand blows;
G. 	Hitting or flicking with an open glove, or thumbing;
H. 	Wrestling, hitting on the break or pushing an opponent;
I.   	Spitting out the mouthpiece or going down without being hit;
J.  	Striking deliberately the part of the body over the kidneys;
K.  	Use of a pivot or rabbit punch;
L.  	Hitting an opponent during intervention by the referee;
M.  	Hitting an opponent who is entangled in the ropes;
N.  	Biting or any unsportsmanlike conduct;
O.  	Abusive or profane language;
P.  	Failure to obey the referee;
Q.  	Any physical action which may injure a participant, except by fair sportsmanlike boxing; 
R.  	Passive defense by means of double cover.

5.15	PENALTY FOR FOULS

A. 	The referee may penalize a participant if they commit a foul.  

B.	Points may be deducted from their score in the round or rounds if such foul occurs  and shall notify the judges at the time of the foul and verify between rounds of the foul points deducted.

C. 	If a foul is of a serious nature, intentionally inflicted, or is continuous or repeated; the referee may award the bout to the participant who is fouled.

CHAPTER 6
SPECIFIC REQUIREMENT FOR KICKBOXING PARTICIPANTS 

6.1	CONDUCT OF ATHLETIC EVENTS

A. 	All professional non-title bouts will be a minimum of three rounds and up to a maximum of twelve rounds.

B. 	All offensive kickboxing, punching, and kicking techniques are authorized, with the exception of those techniques specified as “fouls”, and may be executed according to the individual participant’s style or system of kickboxing.

C.	Participants shall have the option of leg kicks when both participants have been properly trained for leg kicks and the contract explicitly states that leg kicks will be used.

D. 	If leg kicks are allowed, any kicking technique may be used as long as the kicks are not to any foul area, such as the knee joint. Targets include kicks to the inside, outside and back of the thigh on either leg and/or kicks to the calf of either leg.

E.  	The director may limit the use of leg kicks or the use of inside kicks.

F. 	A participant intentionally avoiding any physical contact with their opponent will receive a warning from the referee. If a participant continues to avoid a confrontation with their opponent after receiving a warning during that round, the participant may be penalized by the referee. If the participant continues to evade action, either in the same round or in any other round, the referee may, at their discretion, impose additional penalties.

6.2	SWEEPS

A. 	Participants may execute sweeps only by making a sweeping motion to the padded area of opponent’s foot with the padded area of the user’s foot, also known as “boot to boot”.

B. 	Contact to any other part of the leg (thigh, knee, shin and sides of the shin from any angle) while delivering a sweep shall constitute a foul and will be treated accordingly.

C. 	A sweep is not a kick and shall not be judged as such.

D. 	Any technique thrown following a sweep must land on the opponent prior to any part of the participant’s body touching the ring floor. If the technique lands on some part of the opponent’s body other than the soles of the participant’s feet and the feet touch the floor, the referee may call a foul.

E. 	A successful sweep is not considered a knockdown.

6.3	TACTICS DEEMED FOULS 

All general fouls of boxing and kickboxing apply in addition to the following fouls.

A. 	Headbutts;
B. 	Striking the groin, the spine, the throat, collarbone, or the part of the body over the kidneys;
C. 	Kicking into the knee or striking below the belt in any unauthorized manner;
D. 	Anti-joint techniques (striking applying leverage against any joint);
E. 	Grabbing or holding onto an opponent’s leg or foot;
F.  	Leg checking the opponent’s leg or stepping on the opponent’s foot to prevent the opponent   
      	from moving or kicking; 
G.  	Throwing or taking an opponent to the floor in an unauthorized manner;
H.  	Failure to throw eight kicks in a given round;
I.   	Intentional evasion of contact; and,
J. 	Executing any techniques which are deemed malicious and beyond the scope of reasonably  
    	accepted techniques in an athletic event.

6.4	KICKING REQUIREMENTS 

A. 	All participants must execute a minimum of eight hard kicks per round. The director may waive this requirement or minimize the number of kicks required per round.

B.	In the event a participant fails to execute the required number of kicks per round, the referee may give one warning to that participant and their chief second during the rest period following the round.

C. 	If the participant fails to execute the minimum number of kicks in any round following the referee’s warning, the participant shall be penalized one point for each kick short of the minimum requirement.

D. 	If a participant fails to achieve the minimum kicking requirement in a majority of the scheduled rounds, the participant shall be disqualified.

E. 	If a participant executes less than eight kicks in any one round, the director or chief inspector shall immediately notify the referee the number of kicks thrown. The referee shall, in turn, notify the judges who shall record the appropriate penalty.

F. 		Contact must be attempted in order for a kick to be counted.

G. 	Slide kicks, push kicks, air kicks or any kick to a foul area on the body are not counted 

6.5	WEIGHT ALLOWANCES 

Before a participant will be permitted to fight an opponent who exceeds the weight allowance as shown, the participant must first receive approval by the director: 

POUNDS	CLASSIFICATION	ALLOWANCE	
  191+	Heavyweight	No limit	
190 	Cruiserweight	15 lbs.	
175	Light Heavyweight	8 lbs.	
168	Super Middleweight	8 lbs.	
160	Middleweight	7 lbs.	
154	Junior Middleweight	7 lbs.	
147	Welterweight	7 lbs.	
140	Junior Welterweight	5 lbs.	
135	Lightweight	5 lbs.	
130	Junior Lightweight	5 lbs.	
126	Featherweight	5 lbs.	
122	Junior Featherweight	5 lbs.	
118	Bantamweight	5 lbs.	
115	Junior Bantamweight	5 lbs	
112	Flyweight	5 lbs.	
108	Junior Flyweight	5 lbs.	
105	Minimum Weight	5 lbs.	

No participant shall engage in a bout where the weight difference exceeds the allowance shown above. Any greater weight spread requires the director approval.

6.6 	KICKBOXER ATTIRE

A standard karate uniform consisting of jacket, long pants and belt, as traditionally worn in the sport of kickboxing or full contact karate may be worn by all participants upon entering the ring.  Prior to the start of a bout, all participants must remove their jackets and belts.

CHAPTER 7
SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS FOR MIXED MARTIAL ARTS (MMA) PARTICIPANTS

7.1	BOUT REQUIREMENTS 

A. 	Each non-championship MMA contest shall be at least three rounds and up to a maximum of four rounds with five minute durations, and one minute rest periods between each round unless modified by the director.

B. 	Each championship MMA contest shall be five rounds, of five minute durations, and  one minute rest periods between each round unless modified by the director.

C. 	A bout may go an extra round if the bout is deemed a draw after the scheduled rounds.

D. 	The referee is the sole arbiter of a bout and is the only individual authorized to enter the ring or cage at any time during competition and to stop a contest.

E. 	All bouts are evaluated and scored by three judges.

F. 	The 10-Point Must System will be the standard system of scoring a bout.  Half points may be used with the 10-Point must system if approved prior to the event.

7.2	WARNINGS

A single warning will be issued for the following infractions and may not be limited to these infractions:

A.	Holding or grabbing the cage or ropes;
B.	Holding opponent’s shorts or gloves;
C.	The presence of more than one second on the apron.

7.3	TACTICS DEEMED FOULS

A.	Butting with the head.
B.	Eye gouging of any kind.
C.	Biting or spitting 
D.	Hair pulling.
E.	Fish hooking.
F.	Groin attacks of any kind.
G.	Intentionally putting a finger in any opponent’s orifice (includes laceration).
H.	Downward point of elbow strikes.
I.	Small joint manipulation.
J.	Strikes to spine or back of the head.
K.	Heel kicks to the kidney.
L.	Throat strikes of any kind (includes grabbing trachea).
M.	Clawing, pinching, twisting the flesh or grabbing the clavicle.
N.	Kicking the head of a grounded fighter.
O.	Kneeing the head of a grounded fighter.
P.	Stomping of grounded fighter.
Q.	Holding the cage.
R.	The use of abusive language in fenced area or ring.
S.	Any unsportsmanlike conduct that causes an injury to a fighter.
T.	Attacking an opponent during a break.
U.	Attacking an opponent under the referee’s care.
V.	Timidity (avoiding contact, intentional and/or consistent dropping of mouthpiece or faking an injury).
W.	Corner interference.
X.	Throwing opponent out of fenced area/ring.
Y.	Flagrant disregard of the referee’s instructions.
Z.	Spiking an opponent to the canvas on his head or neck.
AA.	Throwing in the towel during competition.

7.4 	PENALTY FOR FOULS

A. 	Referees may penalize or disqualify a participant  after any foul or  a flagrant foul.

B. 	Fouls result in a point being deducted by the official scorekeeper from the offending participant’s score.  (The judges should only make notations of points deducted by the referee, for each round.)

C. 	If a foul is committed when:

i.  	The referee shall call time
ii.  	The referee shall check the fouled participant’s condition and safety and provide adequate time to recuperate and resume fighting.  Such time shall not exceed five minutes. 
iii.  	The referee shall then assess the foul to the offending participant, deduct points, and notify the corner men, judges and official scorekeeper

D. 	If a bottom participant commits a foul, unless the top participant is injured, the fight will continue.

i.  	The referee will verbally notify the bottom participant of the foul.
ii.  	When the round is over, the referee will assess the foul and notify both corners, the judges and the official scorekeeper.
iii.  	The referee may terminate a bout based on the severity of a foul.  For such a
flagrant foul, a participant shall lose by disqualification.

7.5 	INJURIES SUSTAINED BY FAIR BLOWS OR FOULS:

A. 	Fair Blows:

If injury is severe enough to terminate a bout, the injured participant loses by TKO.

B. 	Intentional Fouls:

i. 	If injury is severe enough to terminate a bout, the participant causing the injury immediately loses by disqualification.

ii.  	If an injury occurs and bout is allowed to continue, the referee will notify the director or the chief inspector and automatically deduct two points from the participant who committed the foul.  Point deductions for intentional fouls will be mandatory.

iii. 	If injury in item (ii) above is the result of the bout being stopped in a later round, the injured participant will win by Technical Decision, if the participant is ahead on the score cards.

iv. 	If injury in item (ii) above is the result of the bout being stopped in a later round, the bout will result in a Technical Draw, if the injured participant is behind or even on the score cards.

v. 	If a participant injures themselves while attempting to foul their opponent, the referee will not take any action in their favor, and the injury will be the same as one that occurs by a fair blow.

C. 	Accidental Fouls:
i. 	Any injury severe enough for the referee to immediately stop the bout will result in a “No Contest” if stopped before two rounds have been completed in a three  round bout or if stopped before three  rounds have been completed in a five  round bout.

ii. 	Any injury severe enough for the referee to immediately stop the bout after two rounds of a three  round bout, or three  rounds of a five  round bout have occurred, the bout will result in a “Technical Decision”, awarded to the participant who is ahead on the score cards at  the time the bout is stopped.

iii. 	If injury in item (ii) above occurs, an incomplete round will be scored.

iv. 	If injury in item (ii) above occurs, and the referee penalizes either participant, the point (s)
    	shall be deducted from the final score.

7.6 	WEIGHT ALLOWANCES 

Before a participant is permitted to fight an opponent who exceeds the weight allowance as shown, the participant must first receive approval by the director: 

POUNDS	CLASSIFICATION	ALLOWANCE	
  Above 265 	Super Heavyweight	No limit	
  265	Heavyweight	35 lbs.	
230	Cruiserweight	25 lbs.	
205	Light Heavyweight	20 lbs.	
185	Middleweight	15 lbs.	
170	Welterweight	15 lbs.	
155	Lightweight	10 lbs.	
145	Featherweight	10 lbs.	
135	Bantamweight	10 lbs.	
125	Flyweight	10 lbs.	
Below 124	Minimum Weight	10 lbs.	

The director may allow participants over 205 lbs to compete against an opponent up to 265 lbs.   

7.7 	PARTICIPANTS APPAREL RESTRICTIONS 

A.	A participant may not wear shirts or gis during competition.

B.	A participant may not wear  shoes  during competition.

7.8 	RECORDING OF BOUT RESULTS

A. 	Submissions occur by either a Tap Out or a verbal Tap Out

B 	TKO’s occur by a referee stopping the bout.

C. 	KO’s occur by failing to rise from the canvas.

D. 	Decision via score cards occur by:

i. 	Unanimous: All three judges score the bout for the same participant
ii. 	Split Decision: Two judges score the bout for one participant and one judge scores for the opponent.
iii. 	Majority: Two judges score the bout for the same participant and one judge scores a draw.
iv. 	Draws: 

a. Unanimous:  All three judges score the bout a draw
b. Majority:  Two judges score the bout a draw
c. Split:  All three judges score differently

E. 	Disqualification occurs by a referee disqualifying a participant.

7.9	VARIOUS MARTIAL ARTS

A contest of martial arts must be conducted pursuant to the official rules for the particular art. The sponsoring organization or promoter must file a copy of the rules with the Office of Boxing before it will approve the contest to be held. The sponsoring organization or promoter will receive a list of requirements and fouls before the contest.

CHAPTER 8
REQUIREMENTS FOR SECONDS

8.1	LICENSE OR PERMIT FOR  SECONDS 

All seconds shall submit  an application for a license or permit to assist a fighter and must be licensed or permitted prior to the scheduled start of an event. Incomplete or incorrect application forms will not be accepted by the Office and will be returned to the applicant to be corrected.

8.2	FEES

Each applicant applying for a license or a permit shall pay the required fee before the license or permit is granted.  The license or permit fee schedule is established by the director of division of registrations pursuant to Section 24-34-105, C.R.S.

8.3 	MINIMUM AGE REQUIREMENT

No person under the age of eighteen years shall be licensed or permitted to act as a second.

8.4 	EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS 

Seconds are required to provide all materials and equipment necessary to conduct themselves as a second. Such equipment includes water buckets, gauze and tape for hand wraps, spit buckets, scissors, towels, vaseline, enswell, q-tips, mouthpieces and cut solutions. Water bottles must be clear and all hand wrapping materials must be white. 

8.5	NUMBER OF SECONDS

A. 	Unless special permission is given by the director, the seconds shall not exceed  three, one of whom will announce to the referee at the start of the bout that they are the chief second.  The director has the distinction to reduce the number of seconds per bout.

B. 	If at any time during a bout there are more seconds in a corner than allowed, the bout may be stopped until corrected or the chief second may be disqualified and subject to disciplinary action. 

8.6	WRAP INSPECTION AND ACCEPTABLE MATERIAL 

A. 	Hand wraps shall be applied in the dressing room in the presence of a commission representative. Unless a championship bout, a representative of a participant must request in writing at the weigh in or prior, to witness the wrapping of the opponent's hands.  

B. 	White adhesive tape of no more than six feet and not over one and one-half inches wide can be placed directly on the hand to protect the hand near the wrist. The tape may cross the back of the hand but shall not extend within one inch of the knuckles when the hand is clenched in a fist.  A single four-inch by four-inch white surgical pad or equivalent material must be approved by the Director or the chief inspector.  

C. 	If equivalent material is approved it must be folded in half and may be used on the knuckles of each hand for added protection and safety. 

D. 	Single strips of tape not wider than one-fourth inch and not longer than three inches may be placed between the knuckles in order to hold the white gauze in place.  

E. 	Participants shall use soft white surgical bandage not over two inches wide and twenty yards in length, held in place by not more than six feet of white surgeon's adhesive tape to complete the wrappings for each hand.  Bandages shall be adjusted in the dressing room in the presence of a commission representative, who must sign across the back of the hand before gloves are secured on each participant.

F. 	For each foot wrapping, soft surgical bandages shall be used and must not be over two inches wide, held in place by surgeon’s adhesive tape not over one and one-half inch wide.

G.  	Foot wrappings shall not exceed three to four windings of soft surgical bandage around the sole and instep, and no more than four windings around the ankle. Tape shall cross the foot once before being wrapped one more time around the sole and heel.

8.7	ENTERING RING OR CAGE 

Only one second shall be inside the ring or cage between rounds. The other(s) may be on the ring platform outside the ropes.  Seconds shall not enter the ring or cage until the timekeeper indicates the termination of the round and they shall leave when the timekeeper gives the ten second warning before the beginning of each round.  If the chief second or anyone for whom they are responsible enters the ring before the round ends, the participant may be disqualified and the violator may be subject to disciplinary action. 

8.8	CHIEF SECOND

The chief second of a participant may stand on the ring apron and attract the attention of the referee indicating the retirement of the participant. The chief second shall not enter the ring unless the referee stops the bout and shall not interfere with a count that is in progress.

8.9	COACHING DURING A BOUT

While the bout is in progress, a second shall not excessively coach a participant during a round and shall remain seated and silent when so directed by the referee or a commission representative.  Seconds shall not place or cause any items to be placed inside the ring or cage during a bout. They shall not continuously stand, lean or pound on the ring apron during the round.  Excessive coaching may lead to point deductions, ejection from the venue, or subject to other disciplinary action.   

8.10	USE OF ICE/WATER AND SUBSTANCES TO STOP HEMORRHAGING

A.  	A participant may be refreshed with a wet sponge or spray mist bottle that only contains water. 
B. 	Excess water or ice on the ring or cage floor shall be wiped off immediately by the seconds. 
C. 	Water discharged from the participant’s mouth  shall be caught in a bucket or other device furnished for that purpose.  
D. 	A participant may not be given any stimulant.  
E. 	Before leaving the ring or cage at the start of each round, the seconds shall remove all obstructions such as buckets, stools, bottles, towels and robes from the ring or cage floor. 
F. 	If a participant is cut, a solution of adrenaline 1/1000, aventine, and thrombin can be used to heal the cut. 
G. 	No other bottle or container shall be allowed or used in the corners during a bout.  Any other solution or substance is prohibited.

8.11	DRESS AND SUBJECT TO SEARCHES 

Seconds shall be neatly dressed while working the participant's corner and may be searched for illegal substances or objects.

CHAPTER 9
REQUIREMENTS FOR PROMOTERS

9.1	LICENSE REQUIRED

A.	Promoters shall apply for a license by submitting an application and fee in the manner approved by the division of registrations and must be licensed prior to the approval of a permit.  

B.	Promoters are responsible for ensuring that all participants and seconds are licensed and all applicable fees are paid. 

9.2 	MINIMUM AGE REQUIREMENT

A person who applies for a promoter license must be a minimum of eighteen years old. 

9.3	PROMOTION PERMIT AND EVENT REQUIREMENTS 

A.  	Promotion permit application and fee

i.  	A completed permit application and appropriate fee must be submitted to the director at least 30 days prior to the scheduled date, time and location of the event. 
	ii.  	The commission may approve a permit less than 30 days on a case by case basis.  
	iii. 	Promotion permits will not be granted to promoters who owe any fees from previous events. 
	iv.  	Any change to a previously approved permit will require a new permit application and may require a fee and must be submitted as expeditiously as possible.   
v. 	Permit applications filed in excess of 150 days in advance of the event require commission approval.

B.	A promoter may not promote, advertise or sell tickets for an event until they are licensed and appropriate permits have been granted or the promoter may be subject to a fine or disciplinary action and the license or permit may not granted.

C.  	Limitations and Expectations on Permits 

	i.  	There are no limitations on the number of permits allowed.  However, the director may deny a permit where the following conditions exist:

		a.	Back-to-back events;
		b.  	Same-day events;
		c.  	Inadequate officials to properly regulate the event;
d.  	Failure of a promoter or any person connected with the promotion to comply with any statute or rule;
e. 	A bout listed on the promotion permit application fails to meet the requirements of Chapter 3;
	f. 	Inadequate or unsafe location, site or arena selection; or
g. 	For other reasons which may not be in the best interest of the sport, the participants, spectators, or the officials.

	ii. 	Promoters are expected to comply with the following:  

	a. 	Fulfill all obligations of the permit.  Any promoter who cancels an event after a permit is granted may be subject to disciplinary action and future permits may be denied. 
	b.	By completing the permit, promoters agree to pay in guaranteed funds all official fees established by the director of the division of registrations within the  timeframes established by the boxing director. 
	c.	No weigh in will begin without official fees paid in full. The weigh in cannot be rescheduled and the event will be canceled.  

D.	Minimum Requirements of Rounds

	i.	Promoters shall not schedule less than twenty rounds nor more than forty rounds for any one event.  A standby bout shall be provided in the event an arranged bout falls through and it is necessary to put on another bout in order to meet the minimum requirements.  Any exception to the number of rounds require approval of the director.

	ii. 	The promoter is expected to feature a main event bout.  The number of rounds that qualify as a main event bout is at least five rounds for boxing and at least three rounds for kickboxing and mixed martial arts.

	iii. 	A promoter may appeal a permit denial to the boxing commission by submitting a written request within 10 days of the denial. 
		    
E. 	Event Fee

i. 	The promoter shall pay the appropriate event fee that is established by the director of the division of registrations pursuant to Section 24-34-105 C.R.S. 
ii. 	The event fee must be paid to the Office of Boxing at the time the event is approved by the director. 
iii. 	The event fee may vary depending on the event location, area, or other appropriate considerations.   

9.4	COMPLIANCE BOND OR CERTIFIED CHECK REQUIRED 
	
A.  	Promoters shall either submit proof of a surety bond or submit a certified check to the Office of  Boxing in an amount to be determined by the director before a scheduled event. 

	i.  	All bonds must be current and list the Office of Boxing as the obligee. 
	ii.  	Bonds and certified checks must be verified and approved by the director. 
	iii.  	Failure to comply may result in the cancellation of the event and disciplinary action.

9.5	INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS 

A. 	Promoters are required to provide the director with proof of all insurance coverage at least seven days prior to the scheduled event. Failure to provide timely proof may result in cancellation of the event and/or disciplinary action. 

B. 	Promoters are required to provide participants in each event with at least $10,000 of insurance coverage for medical, surgical, and hospital care as a result of injuries sustained during a bout. 

C. 	Promoters are required to provide participants with at least $10,000 of life insurance covering deaths caused by injuries sustained during a bout. 

9.6 	APPROVED ANNOUNCEMENTS

A. 	Promoters are responsible for ensuring that an announcement is made prior to the start of the main event which includes a statement that the event is regulated by the Colorado State Boxing Commission. 

B. 	Other announcements must be limited to those pertaining to present and future permitted bouts when specifically authorized by the director or chief inspector.  

C. 	Political announcements or references are not allowed under any circumstances. 

9.7	SUBSTITUTION ANNOUNCEMENTS

Promoters are required to publicly announce all substitutions for participants advertised for bouts as soon as the substitutions are known.  Prior to the announcement of a substitution, the substitute participant must be approved by director or the chief inspector.  If the substitute appears for the bouts and is not used for any reason other than medical disqualification, the substitute will be reimbursed by the promoter a minimum of one hundred dollars for training expenses and transportation.  Failing to announce substitutions may result in disciplinary action.

9.8	DELAY OF BOUTS

Promoters are responsible for having participants ready to enter the ring or cage immediately after the conclusion of the preceding bout.  Any promoter causing a delay of more than five minutes may be subject to disciplinary action.  

9.9  	REINSTATEMENT OF AN EXPIRED LICENSE
The purpose of this rule is to establish the qualifications and procedures for reinstatement of an expired license pursuant to § 12-10-106.5, C.R.S. and § 24-34-105, C.R.S. 

A.	Conditions of Reinstatement:  License expired for less than two years   
	i.	An applicant seeking reinstatement of an expired license for less than two years shall complete a reinstatement application and pay a reinstatement fee. 
B.	Conditions of Reinstatement: License expired two years or more
	i. 	An applicant seeking reinstatement of an expired license for two years or more shall complete a reinstatement application, pays a reinstatement fee and provide proof of a compliance bond in a manner approved by the director. 
An applicant for reinstatement who has actively practiced in Colorado with an expired license in violation of § 12-10-106.5 C.R.S. is subject to denial of application, disciplinary action, and/or other penalties as authorized in the Professional Boxing Safety Act at § 12-10-101 et seq., C.R.S., and in accordance with § 24-34-102 et seq., C.R.S. 

9.10	NOTICES FROM PROMOTERS 
A.	Address and Name Changes 
	i.	Promoters shall inform the director of any name, address, telephone, or email change within 30 days of the change. The director will not change a promoter’s information without explicit notification in a manner prescribed by the director.  
	ii.	One of the following forms of documentation is needed to change a name or correct a social security number:
		a.	Marriage license;
b.	Divorce decree;
c.	Court order; or
d.	A driver’s license or social security card with a second form of identification may be    
	acceptable at the discretion of the Division of Registrations.
9.11	REPORTING CONVICTIONS, JUDGMENTS AND ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEEDINGS 
A.	Promoters shall notify the Director within 45 days of any of the following events:
	i.	The conviction of a felony under the laws of any state or of the United States, which would be a violation of §12-10-107.1 C.R.S. A guilty verdict, a plea of guilty or a plea of nolo contendere (no contest) accepted by the court is considered a conviction; 
ii.	A disciplinary action imposed upon the licensee by another jurisdiction that licenses promoters, which would be a violation of § 12-10-107.1, C.R.S., including, but not limited to, a citation, sanction, probation, civil penalty, or a denial, suspension, revocation, or modification of a license whether it is imposed by consent decree, order, or other decision, for any cause other than failure to pay a license fee by the due date; 
iii.	Revocation or suspension by another state athlete commission, municipality, federal or state agency or any association who oversees boxing, kickboxing or MMA; 
iv.	Any judgment, award or settlement of a civil action or arbitration in which there was a final judgment or settlement against the licensee. 
B.	The notice to the director shall include the following information; 
i. 	If the event is an action by a governmental agency (as described above), the name of the agency, its jurisdiction, the case name, and the docket, proceeding or case number by which the event is designated, and a copy of the consent decree, order or decision; 
ii. 	If the event is a felony conviction, the court, its jurisdiction, the case name, the case number, a description of the matter or a copy of the indictment or charges, and any plea or verdict entered by the court. The licensee shall also provide to the director a copy of the imposition of sentence related to the felony conviction and the completion of all terms of the sentence within 45 days of such action; 
iii. 	If the event concerns a civil action or arbitration proceeding, the court or arbiter, the jurisdiction, the case name, the case number, a description of the matter or a copy of the complaint, and a copy of the verdict, the court or arbitration decision, or, if settled, the settlement agreement and court’s order of dismissal; 
C.	The licensee notifying the director may submit a written statement with the notice to be included with the licensee’s records. 

CHAPTER 10
GUIDELINES FOR CONTRACT, FINANCIAL ARRANGEMENTS AND REPORTING FRAUD 

10.1	 CONTRACT BETWEEN THE PROMOTERS AND THE PARTICIPANT – WRITING REQUIRED

No professional bout will be approved without a  contract with the promoter and the participant.  The contracts must contain a minimum of the following:  

A.	Name and signature of promoter or an authorized designee of the promoter   
B. 	Name and signature of participant. 
C.	Name of the opponent. 
D.	Type of Bout.
E.	Date and start time of the event. 
F.	Date and start time of weigh in. 
G. 	Location of event and weigh in. 
H.	Number of rounds in the bout.
I.	Time limit of each round. 
J.	Maximum and minimum weight allowable. 
K.	Purse amount (Includes show and win money and ticket amount given).
L.	Statement  that participant will be present and on time to the weigh in and the event.
M. 	Statements  that the purse may be held by the commission for violations.  
N.	 Any deducted fees must be listed (this does not  include commission permit or license fees. 
O.	Statement that indicates participants will be paid by the promoter immediately following the event.
P.	Statement that indicates a substitute participant will be paid by the promoter if they do not engage in a bout.	
Q.	Statement whereby the participant acknowledges the inherent risk of  engaging in the sport. The participant, agrees to waive any claim that they or the participant's heirs may have against the Office of Boxing,  officials and the State of Colorado as the result of any injury the participant may suffer while engaging in any bout.  

10.2	MAXIMUM EFFORT

A participant shall not be fully paid a fee who does not complete the terms of the contract or compete in good faith or maximum effort during the bout as determined by the director. 

10.3	VIOLATION OF CONTRACT

 Violation of the terms of a contract by any party may be grounds for disciplinary action. 

10.4	GUIDELINES FOR REPORTS OF FRAUD 

A.	If any person has reason to believe that fraud has occurred, such person may report the issue to the director in writing within 10 days.  

B.	Any licensee who fails to report to the director any violation of the law or rule may be subject to disciplinary action. 

C.	If  a  licensee is approached with a request or suggestion that an event not be conducted honestly, that licensee must immediately report the matter to the director. Failure to do so may be subject to disciplinary action. 

D.	Any licensee, who directly or indirectly holds, participates in, aids or abets any sham or fake contest or match may be subject to disciplinary action.

CHAPTER 11
PERSONNEL, FACILITY AND EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS

Promoters and others involved in an event have the responsibility to understand and comply with the following rules. 

11.1 	PERSONNEL REQUIRED DURING BOUTS

A. 	Physician 

i. 	A bout shall not start or continue unless an approved physician is seated at ring or cage side, and the physician shall not leave until after the decision in a final bout. 
ii. 	Televised bouts may require two physicians so that bouts may continue as one physician attends to a participant in the dressing rooms or in the near proximity.  
iii. 	Physicians shall be prepared to assist if any serious emergency arises, and shall render temporary or emergency treatments for cuts and minor injuries sustained by the participants.

B. 	Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) 

i. 	Promoters are responsible for ensuring that all bouts have a minimum two EMT’s onsite and must ensure that the EMT’s have medical equipment that at a minimum contains the following items and is located within twelve feet of the ring or cage:
	a. 	A resuscitator;
b. 	An oxygen tank properly charged with suitable masks;
c. 	A stretcher; 
d. 	An airway.   

ii.  	Promoters must arrange for an ambulance to be onsite throughout the entire event and must arrange for and give advance notice to the nearest hospital and persons in charge of its emergency room of such event.

iii. 	The director may require additional medical equipment and personnel as appropriate. 

C. 	Security  

i.  	Promoters are responsible for ensuring that public safety is maintained at all events by hiring a minimum of one certified peace officer.  
ii.  	Additional officers may be required as determined by the director. 
iii. 	Any peace officer hired for this purpose must be Colorado State certified and must be employed by the local agency having jurisdiction in that area. 
iv. 	The decision of whether a uniform is not worn by the peace officer shall be a joint decision of the law enforcement agency and the director. 
v. 	Failure to comply may result in the cancellation of the event and may result in disciplinary action.

11.2 	FACILITY REQUIREMENTS

Promoters are responsible for ensuring that all local laws and fire codes are adhered to where an event occurs.  Additionally, promoters are responsible for ensuring that the facility selected for the event and the weigh in is suitable for all audiences.  Facility selection is subject to the approval of the director.

A.	Dressing Rooms

i. 	Promoters are responsible for limiting the dressing room area to authorized personnel and shall furnish a person for this purpose. 
ii. 	 	Female participants may request separate dressing rooms from male participants.
iii. 		The promoter shall also furnish a private room for officials at the event.  
iv. 	The dressing rooms and immediate area must:
	a. 	Provide privacy for the participants;
	b. 	Be properly lighted; 
	c. 	Be clean and free of clutter, trash, etc.; 
	d. 	Be free of alcoholic beverages or illegal drugs;
		e. 	Comply with local health department requirements. 

B.	Smoking area and Prohibited Objects  

	i. 	Smoking is not permitted within twelve feet of the ring or cage.
	ii. 	Beverages shall not be dispensed in cans or glass.
	iii. 	Ashtrays and plates shall not be made of hard substances. 
	iv. 	Any objects considered harmful to patrons as determined by director are prohibited.   

C.	Ring and Cage Safety Zone

The ring or cage side area shall be under the control and jurisdiction of the director or the chief inspector assigned to supervise the event.  

i. 	The safety zone is to be used for designated working officials, participants, seconds, physicians, announcers, commission members and their guests and media representatives as approved by the director. 

ii. 	Promoters are responsible for ensuring that the safety zone is controlled and free of nonessential individuals and the only beverage allowed is water.  

iii. 	At no time during the bout may any items be on the ring apron. 

iv. 	The tables next to the ring or cage must be free of any obstructions and shall not be higher than the fighting area platform.  All areas surrounding the ring or cage must be suitable and safe as approved by the director.  

v. 	A physical barrier surrounding the entire ring or cage shall be placed at a minimum nine feet away from the outside edge of the apron. 

vi. 	Spectator seats shall be a minimum of ten feet away from the outside edge of the apron.  

vii. 	The ring or cage safety zone must be completely set up at least three hours prior to the start of the first bout. This includes properly tightened ropes and all necessary equipment at ring or cage side. 

11.3 	RING AND CAGE REQUIREMENTS 

A.	Ring and Cage Size

i. 	The ring shall be not less than 16 feet nor more than 25 feet square within the ropes.  The ring must have three sets of suitable steps. It shall be elevated no less than three and one-half feet nor more than four feet from the floor. 

ii. 	The cage shall be not less than 18 feet nor more than 32 feet square within the fighting area for MMA.  The cage must have a set of suitable steps for each entrance.  It shall be elevated no more than four feet from the floor.  

iii.  	The ring or cage posts shall be made of metal not less than three inches or more than four inches in diameter extending from the floor to the height of 58 inches above the ring floor.  

iv.  	The ring or cage entry onto the fighting area canvas must be sufficient to allow easy access 
to the fighting area.   

B.	Ring Ropes and Fencing

i.	Four ropes are required for boxing and kickboxing.  The lower rope shall be 18 inches above the ring floor, the second 30 inches, the third 42 inches, and the fourth rope 54 inches above the ring floor.  The ropes shall not be less than one inch in diameter and wrapped in soft material, with the corners padded with protective covers. 

ii.	Five ropes are required for MMA bouts in a ring.  The bottom rope shall not be more than six inches from the ring floor.

iii.	The fencing shall be enclosed and shall be made of materials that will not allow a participant to easily fall out of the space or break through it onto the floor or spectators.  

iv.	Acceptable materials include but are not limited to:

a. 	Vinyl-coated chain link fencing; 
b. 	Metal parts of the enclosure and fighting area shall be covered and padded; 
c. 	Any material used shall not be abrasive to the participants;
d. 	Not obstruct or limit the supervision and regulation of the bout. 

		v.  	The ropes shall be connected to the posts with extensions not shorter than 18 inches. 

		vi.	All ring ropes and fencing is subject to the approval of the director or the chief inspector. 

C.	Materials for the Ring and Cage Floor 

i.		Floor.
  
a. 	The ring floor shall extend beyond the lower rope no less than 24 inches. 
b. 	The entire floor and apron must be padded with insulate, felt, matting, or a similar material with a thickness of at least one-inch.  
c. 	A canvas or similar material covering, stretched tightly and laced or fastened to the outer edge of the floor shall cover the padding. 
d. 	Boards shall be of sufficient strength to hold the weight and ensure the safety of all who enter the ring.

ii. 	Prohibited Floor Materials.  

a.  	Vinyl or any plastic rubberized covering. 
b.  	Materials that gather in lumps or ridges. 

D. 	Additional Required Equipment

Promoters are required to provide all equipment and materials necessary to conduct all bouts.  Such equipment must be clean and in good condition and includes the following: 

i.  	Steps; 
ii.  	Two similar stools;
iii.  	Water buckets;
iv.  	Bell;
v.  	Buzzer or whistle;
vi.  	Timers;
vii.  	Gloves;
viii. 	Head gear;  
ix. 	Foot pads; 
x. 	Shin pads; 
xi. 	Gauze and tape; 
xii.  	Scale, subject to examination and approval; 
xiii. 	Any other associated material and equipment as determined by the director. 

E. 	Pairs of Gloves Required 

Promoters are responsible for having equal pairs of gloves on hand as the number of participants competing. The gloves may be used multiple times during an event.  Promoters must be prepared for differing glove sizes.

F.  	Gloves 

All gloves shall  be furnished by the promoter and shall be new or in-tact or in good clean condition without lumps or imperfections.  All participants in the main event, championship bouts and bouts of six rounds or more shall use new gloves.  The specific glove size for each event shall be as follows: 

	i. 	In boxing or kickboxing bouts, the following requirements apply:

		a. 	Participants weighing 147 pounds or less shall use at least eight ounce gloves.  
		b. 	Participants weighing over 147 pounds shall use at least ten ounce gloves.  
c. 	When two participants differ in weight classes, participants shall use at least ten 
	ounce gloves.  
		d. 	The director may approve or require glove size increases.
e. 	Participants in each bout shall wear the same brand gloves. The director may approve gloves of different  brands.
	
	ii.	In MMA bouts, the following requirements apply:

		a. 	Gloves must weigh at least four ounces. 
	b. 	Gloves weighing over eight ounces must be approved by the director or the chief inspector.  
	
	iii. 	All gloves will be examined and approved by the director or the chief inspector any time before, during and after a bout. 

	iv.  	If gloves are not approved by the director or the chief inspector,  they will be discarded before the bout starts and the bout will not proceed until proper gloves are approved.  
	
v.  	Gloves that are manipulated in such a manner as breaking, skinning, roughing or twisting shall not be approved for use and such conduct is subject to disciplinary action.  

CHAPTER 12
TICKET AND SALES REPORTING REQUIREMENTS 

12.1	ADMISSION TO EVENTS AND TICKETS REQUIRED 

A. 	Every person admitted to an event shall have a ticket or a pass, complimentary or otherwise, other than officials, participants, and seconds. Every admission ticket or complimentary ticket must be tracked. 

B. 	The retail price of the tickets shall be printed in large type and displayed prominently above or near all ticket sellers or ticket windows. 

C. 	The promoter shall disclose the retail ticket prices to the director no later than the time the application for the permit is filed. 

D. 	Tickets of different prices shall be printed in different colors, or state the retail price on the face value of the ticket. Retail ticket prices shall not be changed.

E. 	The director shall be provided with all information and materials necessary for an accurate accounting, including the printers’ manifest showing the total number of tickets printed and the admission prices of each within seven days of an event.

F. 	Advance tickets must be accounted for as part of the gross receipts.

G. 	The number of tickets sold shall not exceed the actual capacity of the location or facility where the event is to be held.

12.2	OTHER TICKETS AND TICKET LIMIT 

In addition to the director, commissioners, chief inspectors, appropriate members of the Department of Regulatory Agencies shall be admitted to any event over which the commission has jurisdiction. Representatives of the Office of Boxing may be required to present their state identification.

12.3	NOTICE OF CHANGE - TICKET REFUNDS

A.	Notice of any change in the announced advertised bouts must be conspicuously posted at the box office and announced prior to the scheduled start of the bouts.  

B.	Any patrons requesting a refund of the ticket price must present the tickets or the ticket stubs at the box office or to a designated person who is handling the refunds.  

C.	All returned ticket stubs must be held for an accurate accounting of the gross receipts.

12.4	SURCHARGE

The promoter is responsible for all surcharge matters below:
	
A.	An event surcharge on gross receipts, less applicable taxes, may be assessed on each event.  If  tickets or passes are priced so that the applicable surcharge results in less than $1.00 per ticket or pass, a surcharge of $1.00 per ticket or pass may be assessed.

B.	A ticket surcharge may be assessed on each ticket or pass issued to the event as determined by the director of the division of registrations. 

C. 	The maximum event surcharge assessment shall not exceed $60,000 including the event fee.  

D.	No later than ten business days after the event, promoters are responsible for filing an accurate  surcharge report with the appropriate surcharge payment.  Payment shall be in the form of a cashier’s check,  money order, or other acceptable methods as determined by the director.

E.  	The director has the discretion to verify the surcharge report submitted. 

F.  	Failing to submit an accurate surcharge report and appropriate payment may result in disciplinary action.    

	CHAPTER 13
REQUIREMENTS FOR ELIMINATION BOUTS

All  rules where appropriate, also apply to elimination bouts.

13.1	ELIGIBILITY 

A.		A participant is eligible to compete if they have NOT:

i. 	Been issued a boxers federal identification card; or
ii. 	Been a competitor in professional boxing, kickboxing, MMA bout.

B. 	Promoters may request that the director not accept a participant due to conduct or safety concerns.   

13.2	GLOVE SIZE

For all boxing elimination bouts, boxing gloves of at least 16 ounces shall be worn. For kickboxing bouts, at least 12 ounce boxing gloves shall be worn. For all MMA elimination bouts, gloves of at least four ounces shall be worn.

13.3	EQUIPMENT

A. 	Boxing 
The Promoter shall provide head gear which shall be worn by all participants. 

B.  	Kickboxing 
The promoter shall provide headgear, foot pads and shin pads which shall be worn by all participants.  The director has the discretion to limit the amount of equipment required.  

13.4	ROUNDS AND TIME LENGTH

A. 	Elimination boxing and kickboxing bouts shall consist of three, two minute rounds or three, one minute rounds with a one minute rest period between each round. 

B.  	Elimination MMA bouts shall consist of three, three minute rounds with a one minute rest period between each round. 

13.5	ELIMINATION TOURNAMENT FORMAT

A.	Tournaments shall be single elimination events. A participant who has lost a bout may not participate in another bout in the same event. 

B.	Tournaments may be between only two participants. 

13.6	ELIMINATION TOURNAMENTS - LENGTH 

A. 	Elimination tournaments are a one day event. Participants may not participate in more than three matches per event. 

B. 	Elimination tournament debut participants must be cleared by the director and a physician a minimum of three days prior to the event.

13.7	WEIGHT CATEGORIES

A. 	There shall be two weight classes for all participants in boxing and kickboxing:  

i.	Light heavyweight - up to 185 lbs.
ii	Heavyweight - over 185 lbs. or more.

B. 	The director may create weight classes other than those listed above. 

C. 	There shall be 11  weight categories for all participants in MMA as shown below:  

POUNDS	CLASSIFICATION	ALLOWANCE	
  Above 265 	Super Heavyweight	No limit	
  265	Heavyweight	35 lbs.	
230	Cruiserweight	25 lbs.	
205	Light Heavyweight	20 lbs.	
185	Middleweight	15 lbs.	
170	Welterweight	15 lbs.	
155	Lightweight	10 lbs.	
145	Featherweight	10 lbs.	
135	Bantamweight	10 lbs.	
125	Flyweight	10 lbs.	
Below 124	Minimum Weight	10 lbs.	

D.	No participant shall engage in a bout where the weight difference exceeds the allowance shown above.  Any greater weight spread requires approval of the director.

13.8	ELBOW AND KNEE STRIKES PROHIBITED 	

Elbows strikes of any kind or knee strikes to the head are prohibited in any type of elimination bout. The participant may be disqualified and may be subject to disciplinary action

CHAPTER 14
REQUIREMENTS FOR OFFICIALS

14.1	OFFICIALS - CONTROL

A.  	All officials involved in an event shall be under the direct control and supervision of the director or the chief inspector assigned to supervise the event.  

B.  	No official shall in any manner display partiality for one participant over the other. 

C. 	The  official may not consume alcohol while acting as an official. 

D. 	Failure to comply may result in disciplinary action and prohibition from officiating future events. 

14.2	MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS FOR AN OFFICIAL LICENSE 

Officials licensed prior to September 1, 2011 are not subject to these requirements.  After September 1, 2011, any person wishing to apply for an Official’s license must demonstrate the following qualifications in boxing, kickboxing or MMA.  

A.	Referee Qualifications:

i. 	Referee experience may be demonstrated by one of the following:

a. 	Four years of amateur experience as a referee at the highest level of accomplishment, or
b. 	One year of professional experience as a referee from a State Athletic Commission, or a  Tribal Commission that is a member of the Association of Boxing Commissions. 

ii. 	Other requirements for Referees:

	a. 	Prior to licensure, a referee must attest that they have read and understand the  laws and rules covering professional boxing,  kickboxing, and MMA in this state 
	b. 	The referee must have also read and understand the rules of the various  sanctioning bodies.  
	c. 	A written test and a physical examination may be required at the discretion of the director to determine fitness to perform.  

B. 	Judge Qualifications

i. 	Judge experience may be demonstrated by one of the following: 

a. 	Three years of amateur experience as a judge at the highest level of accomplishment.
b. 	One year of professional experience as a judge from a State Athletic Commission or a Tribal Commission that is a member of the Association of Boxing Commissions. 

C.	Inspector Qualifications: 

There are three positions within the inspector category: timekeepers, tally judge and knock down judge.
 
i. 	Inspector experience may be demonstrated by one of the following: 

a.  	Three years of amateur experience as an inspector, timekeeper, tally judge or knock down judge. 
b.  	One year of professional experience in any of the position listed above from a State Athletic Commission or a Tribal Athletic Commission that is a member of the Association of Boxing Commissions, or upon approval of the director. 

14.3  	CONDITIONS OF REINSTATEMENT OF AN EXPIRED LICENSE
The purpose of this rule is to establish the qualifications and procedures for reinstatement of an expired license pursuant to § 12-10-106.5, C.R.S. and § 24-34-105, C.R.S. 

A.	Conditions of Reinstatement: License expired less than two years   
	i.	An applicant seeking reinstatement of an expired license for less than two years shall complete a reinstatement application and pay a reinstatement fee. 
B.	Conditions of Reinstatement: License expired two years or more 
	i. 	An applicant seeking reinstatement of an expired license for two years or more shall complete a reinstatement application, pay a reinstatement fee and demonstrate competency for the specific position in a manner approved by the director. 
An applicant for reinstatement who has actively practiced in Colorado with an expired license in violation of § 12-10-106.5 C.R.S., is subject to denial of application, disciplinary action, and/or other penalties as authorized in the Professional Boxing Safety Act at § 12-10-101 et seq., C.R.S., and in accordance with § 24-34-102 et seq., C.R.S. 

14.4	 NOTICES FROM OFFICIALS 
A.	Address and Name Changes 
	i.	Officials shall inform the director of any change in name, address, telephone, email, or financial institution that may affect timely payments within 30 days of the change. The director will not change information without explicit notification in a manner prescribed by the director.  
	ii.	One of the following forms of documentation is needed to change a name or correct a social security number:
		a.	marriage license;
b.	divorce decree;
c.	court order; or
d.	a driver’s license or social security card with a second form of identification may be 
   	acceptable at the discretion of the division of registrations.
14.5	REPORTING CONVICTIONS, JUDGMENTS AND ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEEDINGS 
A.	Officials shall notify the director within 45 days of any of the following events:
	i.	The conviction of a felony under the laws of any state or of the United States, which would be a violation of §12-10-107.1 C.R.S. A guilty verdict, a plea of guilty or a plea of nolo contendere (no contest) accepted by the court is considered a conviction; 
ii.	A disciplinary action imposed upon the licensee by another jurisdiction that licenses officials, which would be a violation of § 12-10-107.1, C.R.S., including, but not limited to, a citation, sanction, probation, civil penalty, or a denial, suspension, revocation, or modification of a license whether it is imposed by consent decree, order, or other decision, for any cause other than failure to pay a license fee by the due date; 
iii.	Revocation or suspension by another state athlete commission, municipality, federal or state agency or any association who oversees boxing, kickboxing or MMA; 
iv.	Any judgment, award or settlement of a civil action or arbitration in which there was a final judgment or settlement against the licensee. 
B.	The notice to the director shall include the following information:
i. 	If the event is an action by a governmental agency (as described above), the name of the agency, its jurisdiction, the case name, and the docket, proceeding or case number by which the event is designated, and a copy of the consent decree, order or decision; 
ii. 	If the event is a felony conviction, the court, its jurisdiction, the case name, the case number, a description of the matter or a copy of the indictment or charges, and any plea or verdict entered by the court. The licensee shall also provide to the director a copy of the imposition of sentence related to the felony conviction and the completion of all terms of the sentence within 45 days of such action; 
iii. 	If the event concerns a civil action or arbitration proceeding, the court or arbiter, the jurisdiction, the case name, the case number, a description of the matter or a copy of the complaint, and a copy of the verdict, the court or arbitration decision, or, if settled, the settlement agreement and court’s order of dismissal; 
C. 	The licensee notifying the director may submit a written statement with the notice to be included with the licensee’s records. 

14.6	CONFLICT OF INTEREST

A.	Officials may not act in any other capacity during an event, unless given permission by the director. 

B. 	Officials shall be excluded from officiating in any bout involving participants with whom they have worked as manager, trainer, etc. 

C. 	Officials shall notify the director immediately of any such conflict.

14.7	CHIEF INSPECTOR DEFINITION AND DUTIES

A.        A chief inspector is a licensed official who is authorized by the director to supervise an event on behalf of the Office of Boxing.  

B. 	The director shall set the amount of compensation the official will receive for each supervised event.  

C.	The chief inspector must ensure that the laws and rules  are properly applied and enforced. 

D.	Chief inspectors must report to the director any violations of the law or rule that occur during an event within 24 hours.. 

14.8	REFEREE ENFORCEMENT

A.	The referee is charged with the enforcement of all Office of Boxing rules which apply to the execution of performance and the conduct of participants' seconds while in the ring.   

B.	Referees shall not wear glasses of any kind while refereeing a bout.

14.9	REFEREE DUTIES

A.	Before the start of each bout, the referee will check each judge and the timekeeper to determine if they are prepared to start the bout. 

B. 	The referee is responsible for determining who will act as  the chief second in each corner and shall hold them responsible for all conduct in the corners. 

C.	The referee in their discretion shall warn the seconds of rule violations, and if they do not comply, the referee shall warn them that further violations will result in point deductions, disqualification of their participant, and subject to disciplinary action. 

D. 	The referee shall instruct the judges to mark their scorecards accurately at all times. 

E.	The referee shall ensure that a bout moves to its proper conclusion.  It should not be stopped or delayed, except in cases of damaging fouls or health and safety concerns.  

F. 	The referee shall penalize participants who delay or use avoiding tactics by deducting points or by immediate disqualification. 

G.	At the conclusion of all bouts and upon the announcement of the winner, the referee shall raise the winner's hand.

14.10	APPROVAL AND PAYMENT

The director shall select the referee for each bout and the decision shall be final. The amount of money paid to the referee  shall be fixed by the director.  Depending on the bout, a referee may be paid by the promoter or sanctioning organization.

14.11	SOLE ARBITER 

A.	The referee is the sole arbiter of a bout and is the only individual authorized to stop a bout.  

B.	Referees shall stop a bout when they deem the following:

		i.  	The physical condition of a participant so requires, 
		ii.  	When a participant is out-classed;
		iii. 	A participant is not demonstrating  their best efforts.  

C.	In the event of serious cuts, the referee may seek a recommendation from the physician whether the bout should be stopped.

14.12	FORFEITURE AND WITHHOLDING OF A PARTICIPANT'S PURSE

The referee shall recommend to the director or chief inspector, the forfeiture or the withholding of half of a participant's purse whenever a participant fails to  perform in good faith or maximum effort when competing.
14.13	GLOVE INSPECTION

A.	The referee shall inspect the gloves of the participants in all events and make sure that no foreign substances have been applied to the gloves or bodies of the participants that might be detrimental to an opponent.  

B. 	Whenever the gloves of a boxing or kickboxing participant touches the canvas floor,  the referee shall  inspect the gloves and wipe them clean before the bout proceeds.
 
14.14	KNOCKDOWN COUNTS

A.	When a participant is knocked down as a result of a punch in a boxing bout or a legal kick or punch in a kickboxing bout, the referee shall order the opponent to a neutral corner and may pick up the count from the timekeeper. 

B.	The referee shall audibly announce the passing of the count. The participant may take the eight count either on the floor or standing. The referee's count is the official count. 

C.	Should the opponent fail to stay in the neutral corner, the referee shall cease the count until the participant  returns to the corner,  then the referee shall continue with the count from the point at which the count was interrupted.

D.	The eight count is mandatory for a knockdown in a boxing and kickboxing bout and a participant may not resume fighting until the referee has finished counting to eight. 

E.	During any count, the opponent shall go to the farthest neutral corner and remain in that neutral corner until signaled by the referee.

14.15	FALLEN PARTICIPANT WHO RISES AND FALLS AGAIN WITHOUT BEING HIT AGAIN

A.	When a fallen participant rises and falls again, without being hit again, in a boxing or kickboxing bout the referee shall continue the original count, rather than starting a new count. 

B.	If the bell rings ending the round during the count, the count shall continue. 

14.16	COUNT OF TEN - INDICATION OF KNOCKOUT

If the referee calls the count of ten during a knockdown in a boxing or kickboxing bout or the referee determines that a participant is not able to continue, the referee shall wave both arms to indicate a knockout.

14.17	PARTICIPANTS DOWN AT THE SAME TIME

If both participants are considered down at the same time in a boxing or kickboxing bout, the count shall  continue as long as one of them is still down. If both participants remain down until the count of ten, the bout shall be stopped and the result  shall be a technical draw.

14.18	ASSESSING FOULS

A.	The referee must weigh the cause as well as the act in assessing fouls.  

B. 	When a foul is unintentionally inflicted, but intentionally received, it is applied to the deliberate recipient.  

C.	If a participant receives a low blow as determined by the referee, the referee may use their discretion to permit a rest period for the recipient. Such period shall not exceed five minutes.  During the rest period, seconds or may not assist or coach either participant.  

D.	The offending participant shall go to a neutral corner.

E.	The referee will give a warning for a low blow to the offending participant if the participant who received the low blow indicates they are ready to continue the bout. 

D.	The referee will give the command to continue after the end of the rest period.  If the offended participant refuses to continue after the rest period, their opponent may be named the winner.  

14.19	LOW BLOWS - RECIPIENT NAMED WINNER

A participant cannot be named the winner of a bout as a result of receiving a low blow unless the referee determines the blow was delivered deliberately and was of such force to seriously incapacitate the offended participant so that they could not continue to compete.  Under this condition, the offender shall be disqualified immediately.

14.20	DELIBERATE ACTIONS TO GAIN ADVANTAGE – PENALTIES

A.	The referee shall warn or penalize participants who use the ropes or deliberately dislodge their mouthpiece or use other unfair tactics to gain an advantage.  

B.	The referee shall not permit unfair tactics that may cause injuries to participants. 

C.	In a boxing bout, the only fair blow is a blow delivered with the padded knuckle part of the glove on the front or sides of the head and body above the hip line. 

14.21	JUDGE APPROVAL
	
The director shall select the judges for each bout and the decision shall be final. The amount of money paid the judges for services rendered shall be fixed by the director.  Depending on the bout, a judge may be paid by the promoter or sanctioning organization.

14.22	JUDGE DUTIES

A.	Judges are responsible to familiarize themselves with and review the method to be used when scoring bouts which may vary by sport.  

B.	The bouts shall be scored to determine the winner through the use of the ten-point must system.  In this system, the winner of each round receives ten points and the opponent a proportionately lower number.  If the round is even, each participant receives ten points.  

C.	Scorecards are provided by the director and only those shall be used.  

D.	Each judge shall accurately complete their scorecard and in accordance with the provisions of the rules governing the sport they are judging. 

E.	At the end of each round the scorecard shall be totaled and signed by each judge.  

14.23	NUMBER OF JUDGES

All bouts will be evaluated and scored by three judges. 
14.24	POSITION OF JUDGES

The judges shall sit alone at ring or cage side and will reach their own decision without conferring in any manner with any other official or person 

14.25	REMOVAL OF JUDGES

Judges of bouts will be under the control and jurisdiction of the Office of Boxing. The director or chief inspector reserves the right to remove a judge, if, the judge is inefficient or is otherwise unable to act as a judge.

14.26	INSPECTOR  PERFORMING TIMEKEEPER DUTIES

The timekeeper is responsible for keeping accurate time of all bouts.  The timekeeper shall keep an exact record of the time taken out at the request of the referee for the examination of a participant by the physician, replacing a glove, or adjusting equipment during a round, and report the exact time of the bout being stopped.  The timekeeper shall use an audible device to indicate the conclusion of every round.

CHAPTER 15
DECLARATORY ORDERS
The purpose of this rule is to establish procedures for the handling of requests for declaratory orders filed pursuant to the Colorado Administrative Procedures Act at § 24-4-105(11), C.R.S.
A.	Any person or entity may petition the commission for a declaratory order to terminate controversies or remove uncertainties as to the applicability of any statutory provision or of any rule or order of the Commission.
B.	The commission will determine, at its discretion and without notice to petitioner, whether to rule upon any such petition.  If the Commission determines that it will not rule upon such a petition, the commission shall promptly notify the petitioner of its action and state the reasons for such decision.
C.	In determining whether to rule upon a petition filed pursuant to this rule, the commission will consider the following matters, among others:
1.	Whether a ruling on the petition will terminate a controversy or remove uncertainties as to the applicability to petitioner of any statutory provisions or rule or order of the commission.
2.	Whether the petition involves any subject, question or issue that is the subject of a formal or informal matter or investigation currently pending before the commission or a court involving one or more petitioners.
3.	Whether the petition involves any subject, question or issue that is the subject of a formal or informal matter or investigation currently pending before the commission or a court but not involving any petitioner.
4.	Whether the petition seeks a ruling on a moot or hypothetical question or will result in an advisory ruling or opinion.
5.	Whether the petitioner has some other adequate legal remedy, other than an action for declaratory relief pursuant to the Colorado Rules of Civil Procedure 57, which will terminate the controversy or remove any uncertainty as to the applicability to the petitioner of the statute, rule or order in question.
D.	Any petition filed pursuant to this rule shall set forth the following: 
1.	The name and address of the petitioner and whether the petitioner is licensed pursuant to Title 12, Article 10.
2.	The statute, rule or order to which the petition relates.
3.	A concise statement of all of the facts necessary to show the nature of the controversy or uncertainty and the manner in which the statute, rule, or order in question applies or potentially applies to the petitioner.
E.	If the commission determines that it will rule on the petition, the following procedures shall apply:
1.	The commisson may rule upon the petition based solely upon the facts presented in the petition.  In such a case:
a.	Any ruling of the commission will apply only to the extent of the facts presented in the petition and any amendment to the petition.
b.	The commission may order the petitioner to file a written brief, memorandum or statement of position.
c.	The commission may set the petition, upon due notice to petitioner, for a non-evidentiary hearing.
d.	The commission may request the petitioner to submit additional facts in writing.  In such event, such additional facts will be considered as an amendment to the petition.
e.	The commission may take administrative notice of facts pursuant to the Administrative Procedure Act at § 24-4-105(8), C.R.S., and may utilize its experience, technical competence, and specialized knowledge in the disposition of the petition.
2.	If the commission rules upon the petition without a hearing, it shall promptly notify the petitioner of its decision.
3.	The commission may, at its discretion, set the petition for hearing, upon due notice to petitioner, for the purpose of obtaining additional facts or information or to determine the truth of any facts set forth in the petition or to hear oral argument on the petition.  The notice to the petitioner shall set forth, to the extent known, the factual or other matters into which the commission intends to inquire.
For the purpose of such a hearing, to the extent necessary, the petitioner shall have the burden of proving all the facts stated in the petition; all of the facts necessary to show the nature of the controversy or uncertainty; and the manner in which the statute, rule, or order in question applies or potentially applies to the petitioner and any other facts the petitioner desires the commission to consider.
F.	The parties to any proceeding pursuant to this rule shall be the commission and the petitioner.  Any other person including the director may seek leave of the commission to intervene in such a proceeding, and leave to intervene will be granted at the sole discretion of the commission.  A petition to intervene shall set forth the same matters as are required by  Section D of this Rule.  Any reference to a "petitioner" in this Rule also refers to any person who has been granted leave to intervene by the commission.
G.	Any declaratory order or other order disposing of a petition pursuant to this Rule shall constitute agency action subject to judicial review pursuant to the Colorado Administrative Procedures Act at § 24-4-106, C.R.S.