While the concept of “rounds” in boxing is universally recognized, many things about it is less familiar.
This article aims to provide you with a complete understanding of how rounds work in boxing. This includes their evolution over time, and the differences that may have escaped your notice.
What is a Boxing Round?
A ’round’ is the designated time in which two boxers actively compete against each other without a break, with a few exceptions like low blows or the dislodging of a boxer’s gumshield.
The bell signals the beginning of a round, accompanied by a formal announcement from the event’s master of ceremonies. It will sound again to mark the round’s end.
Rounds in Amateur Boxing
Amateur boxing has a rich history, and its round structure has evolved over time. In 1880, the Amateur Boxing Association of England established rules that included three rounds, each lasting three minutes, with a one-minute break between them.
This been the same since, while some less experienced amateur boxers box for 3, 2 minute rounds. Women rounds in amateur boxing is 2 minutes of 4 rounds. How To become a boxer.
Rounds in Professional Boxing
Professional boxing, also known as prizefighting, emerged as a legitimate sport in the early 20th century. It introduced the popular 12-round format, with each round lasting three minutes. However, the number of rounds in professional bouts can vary depending on the type of match.
Some may consist of four, six, eight, or ten rounds, influenced by factors like the boxers’ skills and the significance of the event, such as heavyweight, middleweight, welterweight, or featherweight contests.
The History of Boxing Rounds
Boxing rounds have undergone notable changes over the years. The 15-round format, famous for epic battles like Muhammad Ali vs. Joe Frazier and Sugar Ray Robinson vs. Kid Gavilan. It was the standard for world championship fights from the 1920s to the 1980s. However, a tragic incident in 1982, where Duk Koo Kim fell into a coma after being knocked out in the 14th round of a fight against Ray Mancini.
This led to significant safety concerns. The World Boxing Council (WBC) responded by reducing championship fights to 12 rounds. This decision was eventually adopted by other major organizations.
How Do Rounds End?
In boxing, the round can end in various ways. If a fighter is knocked down, the referee counts to ten, during which the fallen boxer must rise and demonstrate their readiness to continue. The timekeeper does not pause the round for the count, except for exceptional circumstances like a low blow or an out-of-place gumshield. The Best Mouthguard In Boxing.
If a knockout occurs, the contest concludes immediately, with the round noted as part of the result. For example, Anthony Joshua‘s knockout of Kubrat Pulev in the 9th round of a scheduled 12 rounds would be recorded as ‘Joshua KO9 Pulev.’
In the absence of a knockout or stoppage once all scheduled rounds have passed, judges determine the result at ringside, or the referee makes the decision in smaller bouts.
The Specific Ways A Round May End
- Judges’ Decision: The majority of boxing matches are determined by the judgment of ringside officials. These judges assess the performance of fighters by considering factors like effective punching, defensive abilities, and overall ring control. A round’s victor is awarded points, and the fighter with the most points when the contest ends is the winner.
- Knockout (KO): Among the most electrifying conclusions, a knockout occurs when a fighter delivers a punch or combination so devastating that their opponent is rendered incapable of continuing the fight. The victim of a knockout may fall unconscious or be unable to regain their footing within the referee’s count. How To Knockout Your Opponent.
- Technical Knockout (TKO): A technical knockout occurs when the referee stop the fight because one of the boxers is no longer able to defend themselves. This decision might come from a fighter absorbing a prolonged, one-sided beating.
- Corner Stoppage: Another way a round or the entire match can come to a close is through the fighter’s corner. This means, that the trainers and coaches, decides to stop the fight. The corner may make this choice to shield their fighter from further harm. In the long run, this can protect the boxers long-term health and well-being.
- Disqualification: Occasionally, a fighter can face disqualification during a round or the match itself. This verdict arises from severe infractions of the rules or the commission of illegal actions, such as rabbit punching (striking an opponent in the back of the head or neck) or excessive holding.
Round Up
Understanding the intricate world of boxing rounds is essential for both fans and participants. Bxoing Rounds can have different durations and rules depending on the level and type of the fight.
Boxing’s rich history has seen significant changes in round formats, emphasizing safety while maintaining the sport’s essence. Whether a round ends with a knockout or goes the distance, it’s the suspense and strategy within those minutes. That’s what makes boxing a sport like no other.