Chapter 85-5 BARE-KNUCKLE BOXING

Rule 85-5-.01 Definitions

(1) "Applicant" means any persons, corporations, organizations or associations required to be licensed before promoting, holding, organizing, participating in, or competing in a professional bare-knuckle boxing match.
(2) "Federal Identification Card" means an identification card issued by the Commission pursuant to O.C.G.A. 43-4B-12 or any such card issued by another boxing Commission as required by 15 USC 6305, et seq.
(3) "Official" unless otherwise indicated is an exclusive term collectively meaning "judges," "referees," and "timekeepers."
(4) "Special Event" means a bare-knuckle boxing card or bare-knuckle boxing show, which has among its contests a championship match, a pay-per-view or subscription television match, a national televised match, or any other match of significance to boxing in this state as designated by the Commission.
(5) "Bare-Knuckle Boxing" means combat between two individuals in which contestants score points in rounds of two or three minutes by striking with wrapped hands, but without padded fists, the head and upper torso of the opponent or by knocking the opponent down and rendering the opponent unconscious or incapable of continuing the contest by such blows, which contest is held in a ring supervised by a referee and scored by three judges.
(6) "Georgia Athletic and Entertainment Commission" means Commission.

Rule 85-5-.02 Licenses

(1) General Provisions.
(a) Terms and Agreements. Every license issued is subject to the terms, conditions, and agreements set forth in the application as well as those set forth in these rules and the statute governing professional boxing in Georgia.
(b) Applications Forms. Applications for annual license shall be submitted to the Commission on a form prescribed by the Commission.
(c) Expiration Date. Annual licenses are valid until December 31, of the year issued for boxing and bare-knuckle boxing and June 30 of the year issued for Mixed Martial Arts.
(d) Verbal or physical abuse of official or Commission appointed supervisor. Any licensee who verbally or physically abuses an official or the Commission appointed supervisor of a match shall be suspended indefinitely and his or her license may be revoked.
1. If a Commission member (Board Member, Director, and/or Staff Member) is in any way attacked, harassed, threated, or abused, etc. by any fighter, promoter, or any person acting on their behalf, those individuals will be subject to action by the Commission.
(2) License Fees:
(a) Schedule of Fees. Annual fees for participant licenses are as follow:
1. Promoter $150.00
2. Event Permit $50.00
3. Matchmaker $50.00
4. Manager $50.00
5. Bare-Knuckle Contestant $20.00
6. Second/Trainer $20.00
(b) Application Fees tendered to the Commission are not refundable.
(c) All fees shall be paid by purse deduction, certified check, cashiers check, or personal check.
(3) Promoter's License.
(a) Application for a promoter's license must be made in writing and received by the Commission no less than 30 days in advance of the proposed date for promoting any professional bare-knuckle boxing match in the state of Georgia.
(b) Each application for a promoter's license shall be accompanied with an appropriate security bond as provided for in these rules.
(4) Match Permit.
(a) Application for a match permit must be made in writing and received by the Commission no less than 30 days in advance of the proposed date for promoting any professional bare-knuckle boxing match in the state of Georgia.
(b) Each application for a promoter's license shall be accompanied with an appropriate security bond as provided for in these rules.
(c) As provided by statute [43-4B-20], the Commission will calculate an additional match permit fee which will then be assessed to the promoter. This additional fee will be calculated at five percent (5%) of the gross proceeds exclusive of any federal taxes.
1. The term gross proceeds means the total revenue received solely from the sale of tickets used or intended to be used by the audience physically attending any event required to be licensed under this chapter.
2. The gross proceed tax and regulatory fee must be accompanied by a form approved by the Georgia Athletic and Entertainment Commission that will calculate the tax.
3. Failure to pay the gross proceeds tax or regulatory fee above within thirty (30) days will result in a 20% late fee and may cause the commence liquidation action against the security bond(s) on file with the Commission.
(5) Contestants. Contestants applying to be licensed in Georgia shall meet the following requirements:
(a) General Physical Evidencing Good Physical Health. Physical is valid for one year.
(b) Ophthalmological Examination. The ophthalmological exam is valid for one year.
(c) Hepatitis and HIV Testing. Blood work is valid for 180 days.
(d) Age Restrictions. Contestants 38 years of age and older are subject to the following requirements for license:
1. Ophthalmological Examination: A detailed dilated ophthalmological examination, conducted by a state licensed ophthalmologist. The intent of this examination is to assure both the boxer and the Commission that no ophthalmological complications exist potentially hampering the boxer's ability to protect himself or herself in the ring, and to ensure that no ocular damage from previous bouts is evidenced. This exam must, at a minimum, include a careful dilated examination of the retinal periphery utilizing indirect ophthalmoscope.
2. Hepatitis and HIV Testing: All contestants in all bouts shall complete testing for Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and HIV.
3. Neurological Examination: A detailed neurological examination, conducted by a state licensed neurologist. Whether auxiliary neuro-diagnostic tests, such as electroencephalography (EEG), computerized tomography (CT), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), are utilized is left to the discretion and the clinical opinion of the examining physician.
4. Cardiovascular Examination: A detailed cardiovascular examination to establish cardiovascular endurance. A poorly conditioned boxer is at increased risk of injury because of exhaustion, which may impede his or her ability to mount an active offense or defense. Whether auxiliary cardiovascular tests, such as an electrocardiogram (EKG), are utilized is left to the discretion and clinical opinion of the examining physician.

Rule 85-5-.03 Bonds

(1) Promoter's License Surety Bond.
(a) Before any promoter's license is issued authorizing the promotion of professional bare-knuckle boxing matches in the state of Georgia, the applicant shall make and deliver to the Commission a security bond executed by a surety corporation authorized to transact business in this state.
(b) Any and all bond applications shall be on a form provided by the Commission and shall be accompanied by an enforceable power of attorney. The Commission may also require certificate of "good standing" issued by the Commissioner of Insurance.
(c) The bond shall be in such amount as the Commission may determine based upon the payment of officials' fees, fees necessary to secure the proper medical supervision of any professional boxing show in the state of Georgia, and/or the estimated potential damages, penalties, taxes or expenses resulting from promotional activities contemplated in the state of Georgia.
(d) Whenever the Commission shall determine that a previously approved bond has for any cause become insufficient, the Commission may require an additional bond or bonds to be given, conforming with the requirements of these rules.
1. Unless the additional promoter's license bond or bonds are given within the time fixed by written demand therefor, or if the promoter's license bond of a licensee is canceled, the license of such person shall be immediately revoked by the operation of law without notice or hearing.
(2) Match Permit Bond.
(a) Before any match permit is issued authorizing the sale of tickets and the ancillary contracting necessary to promote a professional bare-knuckle boxing show in the state of Georgia, the applicant shall make and deliver to the Commission a security bond executed by a surety corporation authorized to transact business in this state. The purpose of the bond is to ensure that each Contestant competing in Georgia is paid their entire purse, and that full payment of other contractual liabilities is made.
(b) Any and all bond applications shall be on a form provided by the Commission and shall be accompanied by an enforceable power of attorney. The Commission may also require a certificate of "good standing" issued by the Commissioner of Insurance.
(c) The bond shall be in such amount as the Commission may determine based upon the estimated contractual liabilities against the licensed promoter for damages and expenses resulting from non-payment of contract liabilities, including but not limited to the total amount of each competing Contestant's purse or other services contracted for or from promotional activities conducted within the state of Georgia.
(d) Whenever the Commission shall determine that a previously approved bond has for any cause become insufficient, the Commission may require additional bond or bonds to be given, conforming with the requirements of these rules.
1. Unless the additional match permit bond or bonds are given within the time fixed by written demand therefor, or is the match permit bond of a licensee is canceled, the match permit of such person shall be immediately revoked by operation of law and without notice or hearing.
(3) Complaints and Actions to Recover Damages.
(a) Any person claiming that he or she has been damaged by a breach of the conditions of a bond given by a licensee as provided in these rules may enter a complaint with the Commission.
(b) Such complaint shall be a written statement of the facts constituting the complaint and should be made within 90 days of the alleged breach. If the Commission determines that the complaint is prima facie a breach of the bond and the matter cannot be amicably resolved within 15 days, the Commission shall endeavor to contact all known additional potential complainants regarding the breach of the bond.
1. Complaints may be registered and filed with the Commission after the ninety day period, but such late complaints shall state a reasonable and good cause for the delayed submission.
(c) Additional complaints must be filed within 30 days following the initial public notification of a breach of the bond.
(d) Upon the filing of such complaint in the manner provided in these rules, the Commission shall investigate the charges made and at its discretion order a hearing, giving the party complained of notice of the filing of such complaint and the time and place of such hearing. At the conclusion of the hearing, the Commission shall report its findings and render a conclusion upon the matter complained of to the complainant and respondent in the case, who shall have 15 days thereafter in which to make effective and satisfy the Commission's conclusions.
(e) If such settlement is not effected within such a time, the Commission or the complainant may bring an action to enforce the claim. If the complainant is not satisfied with the ruling of the Commission, he or she may commence and maintain an action against the principal and surety on the bond of both parties complained of as in any civil action.
(f) If the bond or collateral posted is insufficient to pay in full the valid claims of complainants, the Commission may direct that the proceeds of such bond(s) shall be divided pro rata among such complainants.

Rule 85-5-.04 Medical Requirements

(1) Medical Examination
(a) General Physical Evidencing Good Physical Health. Physical is valid for one year.
(b) Ophthalmological Examination. The ophthalmological exam is valid for one year.
(c) Hepatitis and HIV Testing is valid for 180 days.
(2) Pre-fight Examination.
(a) At the time of weigh-in, or at such other time as is then announced, all contestants must pass a thorough and complete pre-fight medical examination and have a Commission designated physician complete the pre-fight medical examination form prepared by the Commission.
1. Each female Contestant, during the pre-fight physical, will be required to pass a pregnancy test administered under the direction of the examining physician, or such physician's authorized assistant. The cost of such test, unless the Contestant's contract or bout agreement states otherwise, shall be the responsibility of the promoter. For purposes of this subparagraph the term "pass" shall mean that the Contestant is not pregnant.
(b) Whenever a Contestant's examination indicates that he or she is unfit for competition, because of any weakness or disability discovered by the physician, then an immediate report of such fact must be made to the promoter and to the Commission. In such case the Contestant shall be prohibited from participating in the match.
(c) Any Contestant who failed his or her pre-fight physical for medical reasons or for lack of general conditioning will be reported within two business days to the official registry.
(3) Additional Medical Examinations. The Commission may at any time require any Contestant to undergo such additional medical examinations performed by a state licensed physician as may be necessary to determine such Contestant's medical fitness to compete.
(4) Medical Suspensions by Other Commission. Medical suspensions by other Commissions recognized by the Association of Boxing Commissions and which are published by any boxing or mixed martial arts registry approved for such purposes by the Association of Boxing Commissions shall be recognized and honored by the Commission.
(5) Drugs Prohibited. The administration or use of any drugs, alcohol, stimulants, or injections in any part of the contestant's body either prior to or during a match is prohibited unless such drugs are administered by a physician and with the approval of the Commission. The Commission may order drug screens at any time and at the expense of the Contestant.
(6) Time Between Bouts. Except as specifically authorized by the Commission or Commission representative, no Contestant shall be permitted to engage in another contest or exhibition in any jurisdiction for a period of seven (7) days after competing in Georgia.
(7) Knock-Out and Technical Knock-Out.
(a) After the first knock-out, there shall be a minimum 60-day medical suspension. After the second knock-out, there shall be a minimum 120-day medical suspension.
1. The ringside physician may require additional testing following a knock-out, such as a CAT scan, EKG or other medical testing before such suspension is removed from the registry.
2. Any contestant losing by knock-out in two or more consecutive fights may be suspended for a period of 6 months.
(b) Unless otherwise ordered by the attending ringside physician, there shall be a minimum 30-day medical suspension after a technical knock-out.
1. Technical knock-outs caused by a severe cut may result in either a 45-day or 60-day medical suspension.
2. Technical knock-outs caused by a blow anywhere other than the head may, at the discretion of the attending ringside physician, result in a suspension of less than 30 days.
(8) Under-Conditioned Fighter. If the Commission, Executive Director, or Chief Official determines a fighter is under-conditioned, then based on lack of skills will be suspended for 180 days.
(9) Consecutive Losses.
(a) A contestant who has lost 6 consecutive fights by knock-out, technical knock-out, or any combination of either result, according to the contestant's official ring record compiled and maintained by the boxing registry, shall be suspended 365 days.

Rule 85-5-.05 Conduct of Promotion

(1) General Responsibilities and Provisions. During the performance of any promotion, it shall be the promoter's responsibility to ensure the compliance with all laws and rules governing professional boxing, bare-knuckle boxing, and/or MMA in Georgia. Such responsibilities shall include, but will not be limited to the following:
(a) Medical Insurance. The promoter shall provide for the participants insurance covering ambulance services, medical, surgical and hospital care with a minimum limit of $20,000 for injuries sustained while participating in said program and for a $20,000 death benefit awarded to the estate of any Contestant should death occur from injuries received will participating in said contest.
(b) Ambulance Service. The promoter shall provide continuous ambulance service with a state-certified EMT attendant, who shall then provide a resuscitator, stretcher, backboard, oxygen, defibrillator, and such other medical equipment reasonably expected for an immediate trauma care, and who shall be present before the start of each contest and shall remain on site until the close of the program.
1. For the purposes of this section, a program of boxing, bare-knuckle boxing and MMA begins with the commencement of the first bout and ends when the last Contestant leaves the site of the program.
2. The chief ringside physician shall meet with the EMT prior to the beginning of the show. During such meeting the Commission physician will instruct the EMT concerning the show, placement of the stretcher and any other information necessary to ensure prompt and appropriate immediate care should such care be needed.
3. Such ambulance shall be able and available to immediately transport any severely injured Contestant to an appropriate medical facility.
4. If the ambulance or EMT is required to leave the site of the show for any reason, no boxing will be allowed to continue until another ambulance or replacement EMT returns to the site.
(c) General Safety. It shall be the promoter's responsibility to insure safety for the Contestants, officials and fans and to comply with all safety standards required by the Commission.
(d) Arena Security. Arena security is the responsibility of the promoter and such security measures provided by the promoter shall be sufficient to maintain order. At a minimum, 2 sworn off duty law enforcement officers shall be retained for security.
(e) Obtain Ring. The promoter will provide a ring for the show and that ring must pass the certification requirements established the Commission.
(f) Ring Certification. It is the promoter's responsibility to ensure that the ring for use during each show meets the Commission's rules and regulations concerning proper certification, this should be resolved no less than ten (10) days prior to the date of the show, and to maintain certification throughout and during the show.
(g) Advanced Advertising. In addition to the requirements in this Chapter, no contestant or celebrity shall be advertised by any promoter before said promoter has in his or her possession a written commitment from said contestant or celebrity and before said promoter has filed a copy of such written commitment with the Commission.
(h) Main Event Start Time. The final bout for all events sanctioned by the Georgia Athletic and Entertainment Commission shall start at the discretion of the Commission on the date for which the event permit is approved.
(2) Ringside Physician
(a) Providing a physician. It shall be the responsibility of the promoter to assign one or more physicians at ringside during the contest.
1. The physicians assigned must be on the roster of physicians authorized to conduct pre-fight physicals and serve as ringside physicians created by the Georgia Athletic and Entertainment Commission.
2. At least one ringside physician must have in his or her possession any medical supplies and equipment reasonably anticipated to provide first-aid medical assistance for the type of injuries reasonably anticipated to occur in professional boxing matches.
(3) Arena
(a) Drinks. No bare-knuckle boxing match will be allowed to commence or continue, without specific authorization from the Commission, in any arena where concessionaires dispense or serve beverages in containers other than plastic or paper cups.
(b) Arena safety. No bare-knuckle boxing match will be allowed to commence or continue in any arena which appears to the Commission appointed supervisor to be unsafe or where the Commission appointed supervisor has reason to believe that such building or location does not conform to any applicable laws, ordinances and regulations in the city or unincorporated county area.
(c) Dressing rooms. The only people allowed in the Contestant's dressing room are the Contestant, manager, seconds, Commission representatives including appointed Commissioners, approved physician(s), and promoters.
1. Promoters may be required by the Commission appointed supervisor to post a guard at the entrance to the dressing rooms to aid in enforcement of dressing room security.
2. If requested by the Commission, a separate dressing area should be provided for all referees and judges.
(4) Show
(a) Marketing Prohibited Without Prior Commission Approval. Commission approval or authorization must be obtained prior to selling tickets, making announcements, or distributing advertisements concerning any show, show date, contestants, or matches.
(b) Rounds Scheduled
1. Unless otherwise approved by the Commission, promoters shall schedule no less than twenty-four (24) rounds of bare-knuckle boxing on one (1) program. The rounds must be scheduled and approved by the Commission three (3) days prior to the event. An emergency bout must be provided in case any of the scheduled bouts are not held.
2. No bare-knuckle boxing match shall have any rounds lasting longer than three (3) minutes.
i. The maximum number of rounds for any given bare-knuckle boxing match is six (6) rounds, totaling eighteen (18) minutes.
ii. A one (1) minute rest period between rounds.
(c) Card Approval. Requests for preliminary approval of cards should be received by the Commission no less than ten days prior to the date of the contest. The Final card must be received by the Commission no less than three days prior to the date of the contest.
1. Substitutions can occur if the promoter is actively working to search for a replacement. The Executive Director and the Chairman or Vice Chairman of the Commission must approve the proposed bout.
2. No substitution will be allowed during the final seven hours prior to the beginning of the show.
(5) Contracts
(a) The amount of guarantee or percentage promised; the number and time limit of rounds; when and where the official weigh-in will be conducted; when and where the Contestants are scheduled to appear; weight; and all other reasonably expected to be an issue of agreement within professional bare-knuckle boxing contracts and agreements.
1. Weights expressed on bout agreements for all non-championship bouts shall allow no less than a +/-2 pounds variance of the contracted weight.
2. Weights expressed on bout agreements for all championship bouts shall be absolute and shall not allow for any variance.
(b) Contract or Bout Agreement: File with Commission. One copy of each signed written agreement or contract, once executed by both parties and within one week of the event, shall be filed with the Commission.
(c) Violations: Grounds for Suspension. Violation by either party of any written bout agreement or contract may be grounds for suspension of any license issued by the Commission and may in addition to such suspension result in a fine imposed by the Commission.
(6) Failure to Perform
(a) Promoter Failure to Perform. The failure of a promoter to perform according to the terms of the contract; to produce contestants or special added attractions as advertised; to pay the contestants their contractual guarantee, or percentage; or the failure of a promoter to live up to his or her agreement with his or her contestants or performers who did perform as scheduled is prohibited.
(b) Contestant Failure to Perform. The failure of a contestant under contract with a licensed promoter to perform according to the terms of said contract; or the failure of a contestant to live up to his or her agreement with an person to which the contestant is under contractual agreement is prohibited.
(c) Violation: Penalties.
1. Violation of either paragraph (a) or (b) within this subsection shall, for the first offense, be grounds for administrative suspension of not less than 90 days and a fine of not more than the contracted purse amount disclosed on the bout agreement or contract.
2. The second and/or any subsequent violation by any person of either paragraph (a) or paragraph (b) within this subsection may, in addition to any suspension by the Commission, subject the violator to a fine of not more than the contracted purse amount as disclosed on the bout agreement or contract plus not more than an additional $10,000. Said fine to be imposed by the Commission.
3. Any person or license holder violating on three or more occasions either sub-paragraph (a) or sub-paragraph (b) within this subsection shall have his or her license suspended indefinitely. Provided however that any action by the Commission to enforce or attempt to enforce the provisions of this sub-paragraph will be taken only after notice and hearing according to the "Georgia Administrative Procedure Act," Title 50, Chapter 13 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated.

Rule 85-5-.06 Ring and Equipment

(1) The Ring
(a) Ring Size. The ring may be a square, circle, or triangle and not less than 16 feet nor more than 20 feet on a side within the ropes. The ring platform (floor) must extend beyond the ropes at least 18 inches on all sides (apron).
(b) Safety Padding. The ring floor shall be padded with 1-inch-thick slow recovery foam matting, or other soft material approved by the Commission or its authorized representative and shall extend over the edge of the ring platform with a top covering of canvas, duck or similar material tightly stretched and laced to the ring platform. Padding material that tends to gather in lumps may not be used.
(c) Ring Mat. The mat and covering shall be always kept clean and free from disagreeable odors. The corners must be covered by a pad long enough to cover all the rope joints.
(d) Ringside Table. Each promoter shall be responsible for employing a safety plan to protect boxers who might fall outside of elevated rings. Except where deemed impractical, the floor of those sides not so protected shall be covered with protective matting.
(e) Ring Post. Ring posts shall be made of some strong material, preferably metal pipe, three inches in diameter, extending from the floor of the building to a height of at least 58 inches above the ring floor.
(f) Ring Ropes. Ring ropes shall be four (4) or five (5) in number, at least one inch in diameter, the lower rope 18 inches above the ring floor and the top rope 52 inches from the ring floor. The two (2) or three (3) remaining ropes will be evenly spread between the top and bottom ropes. All four (4) or five (5) ropes shall be wrapped in soft material.
(g) Ring Equipment. The promoter shall provide a sufficient number of water buckets for the use of all contestants. Each bucket shall be sterilized before being used. Additionally, the promoter shall provide, resin, stools, and such other articles as are required for the conduct of each bout.
(2) Contestant Equipment
(a) Hand Wraps. Hand wraps shall include the wrist and are restricted to twelve (12) yards of soft gauze bandage per hand and not more than two (2) inches in width, held in place by not more than ten (10) yards of surgical tape, no more than one (1) inch (25.4 mm) width. The surgical tape shall not be applied within one (1) inch of the knuckles.
1. No tape or gauze will extend past the fighter's knuckle when a clenched fist is made.
2. No tape or gauze is allowed between or on the fighter's fingers (with the exception of the thumb, as follows).
i. The thumb of a fighter may include a single wrap of tape when the wrist is being wrapped.
3. Wrapping of the wrist shall not extend more than three (3) inches past the wrist juncture.
(b) Ring Attire
1. Male contestants shall not wear any form of clothing on their upper body.
2. Male and female competitors shall wear the appropriate shorts, shoes (boxing or wrestling shoes), and mouthpiece.
3. Male competitors shall also wear the appropriate groin protection.
4. Female participants shall attire to prevent the showing of cleavage as much as possible and are approved to wear a short-sleeved (above the elbow) or sleeveless form-fitting rash guard and/or sports bra(s).
i. No loose-fitting tops and/or breast protectors shall be allowed.
5. Female competitors will follow the exact requirements for bottom covering as the male competitors, minus the requirement for groin protection.

Rule 85-5-.07 Officials

(1) General Provisions.
(a) Each official will be assigned or appointed by the Commission.
(b) A referee and three judges shall officiate all bare-knuckle boxing bouts. A majority vote of the judges will determine the outcome of the contest.
(c) No active manager, promoter, trainer, or Contestant shall be allowed to officiate at any contest.
(d) Any referee or judge assigned to a match who becomes unable to officiate shall notify the Commission assigned supervisor before 2:00 p.m. on the day of the contest.
(2) Referees and Judges.
(a) Referees
1. Referee Power: The Referee is the sole Arbiter of the assigned bout.
2. Referee Duties.
i. Pre-show Instructions. Referees shall meet with the contestants and with each chief second appointed by the contestants prior to the beginning of the show and during that meeting shall inform each party of the rules applicable to each fight as well as the in-ring conduct expected from each contestant and second assisting in the corner of each contestant.
ii. Pre-Bout Confirmation of Officials and Physician. Prior to calling for the sounding of the bell to begin each bout, the referee in the ring will confirm that the ringside physician as well as each judge assigned to the bout is in place at ringside.
iii. Count: How to Proceed. The referee's count is the official count. When a contestant is knocked down, the referee shall order the opponent to retire to the furthest corner of the ring, pointing to that corner. Once the opponent has so retired to the farthest neutral corner the referee will immediately pick up the timekeeper's count. The referee shall then audibly announce the passing of each second, accompanying the count upward with motions of his or her arm, indicating the count with visual finger counts at the end of each second. The referee may cease counting if the opponent fails to remain in the neutral corner until the count is complete. No contestant who is knocked down shall be allowed to resume until the referee has finished counting eight. The contestant may take the count either on the floor or standing.
iv. Saved by the Bell. A bare-knuckle boxer cannot be saved by the bell in any round including the final round of any bare-knuckle boxing contest.
v. Contestant knocked out of the ring.
(I) Any contestant knocked out of the ring shall receive a twenty (20) second count.
(II) During the time that any such contestant is outside the ring, he or she, shall not be assisted by any member of their corner and such assistance, if offered, shall end the match with that contestant losing by a technical knock-out.
(III) As a general precaution, to protect the safety of the contestant and to prevent any potential injury, a contestant knocked out of the ring may have his or her fall stopped or slowed by any person without penalty, provided that such assistance shall only be to prevent injury from the fall and not to assist the contestant in returning to the ring.
vi. Standing Eight Count. There shall be no standing eight count.
vii. Knock-Out. If the contestant fails to rise before the count of 10 the referee shall declare said contestant the loser by a knock-out.
viii. Failure to Answer Bell. A contestant shall not leave the ring during any one (1) minute rest period between rounds. If any contestant fails or refuses to resume bare-knuckle boxing when the bell sounds signaling the commencement of the next round, the referee shall award a decision of technical knock-out to his opponent as of the round which has last been finished.
(b) Judges
1. Three (3) judges are assigned to each bout.
2. Judges shall evaluate the bout based on effective striking, effective aggressiveness, and control of the fighting area.
3. 10 Point Must System.
(3) Timekeepers
(a) One (1) timekeeper shall be at each event.
(b) Announcement Responsibilities
1. The gong shall be sounded at the beginning and at the end of each round.
2. Timekeepers shall alert the referee by striking the table 10 seconds prior to the end of each round.
3. Timekeepers shall blow their whistle 10 seconds prior to the end of each one-minute rest period.
(c) Emergency Suspension of Round: Responsibility to Announce. If the referee is absent from the ring or temporarily incapacitated the timekeeper shall immediately sound the gong for temporary discontinuance of the contest.
(4) Compensation
(a) All payments of fees, including travel expense when required, shall be paid by the promoter conducting the show and shall be on the following basis:
1. 40 rounds or less of bare-knuckle boxing: Chief official is $300, Referee is $200, Judge is $150, Timekeeper is $150, and Inspector is $100.
2. 41 to 70 rounds of bare-knuckle boxing: Chief official is $350, Referee is $250, Judge is $200, Timekeeper is $200, and Inspector is $125.
3. 70+ rounds of bare-knuckle boxing: Chief official is $400, Referee is $300, Judge is $250, Timekeeper is $250, and Inspector is $150.
4. Televised rounds of bare-knuckle boxing: Chief official is $500, Referee is $500, Judge is $300, Timekeeper is $200, and Inspector is $150.
5. Pay-Per View events of bare-knuckle boxing: Fee's set by the Commission.
6. Events with over 40 rounds may have additional officials brought in to work the event.
(b) The Commission may raise or lower the pay schedule by $50 increments based on inflation or deflation as determined by the Consumer Price Index published by the United States Department of Labor.
(c) Travel expenses for officials required to travel over a distance set by the Commission appointed supervisor, provided that such amount shall not exceed the usual and customary amount allowed by state guidelines for state employees. Hotel rooms may be required at the discretion of the Commission.
(5) Fouls. In general, a referee has wide discretion in how to punish an offending bare-knuckle boxer who fouls his or her opponent. If the referee determines that a foul is unintentional, he or she may simply caution the offending bare-knuckle boxer to be attentive to rules concerning fouls. If the foul is determined to be intentional, the referee may issue a warning to the offending bare-knuckle boxer or may deduct one or more points from the offending bare-knuckle boxer. The referee may also disqualify any bare-knuckle boxer who intentionally fouls his or her opponent.
(a) Fouls, whether intentional or unintentional, are defined as follows:
1. Hitting the opponent below the belt.
2. Hitting an opponent who is down or is getting up after being down.
3. Deliberately maintaining a clinch without other action.
4. Wrestling or kicking the opponent.
5. Putting a finger into any orifice of the opponent or into any cut or laceration on an opponent, including fish hooking.
6. Pulling the opponent's hair.
7. Manipulating the opponent's fingers.
8. Striking an opponent who is helpless as the result of blows but is supported by the ropes and does not fall.
9. Butting the opponent with the head, shoulder, knee, or elbow.
10. Hitting the opponent with the elbow or forearm.
11. Striking the opponent's body over the kidneys.
12. Hitting the opponent on the back of the head or neck.
13. Gouging the opponent's eye in any manner.
14. Hitting during a break, which is signaled by the Referee's command or physical act to separate the fighters.
15. Hitting the opponent after the bell has sounded, ending the round.
16. Using the ropes or cage to gain an advantage over the opponent.
17. Pushing the opponent around the fighting area or into the ropes/cage.
18. Timidity, excessive clenching, including intentionally spitting out the mouthpiece, running from an opponent, or other similar behavior.
19. Biting the opponent.
20. Headlocks.
21. Throat punches or strikes directly toward the throat of an opponent.
22. Fingers outstretched toward an opponent's face or eyes.
23. No throws or takedowns.
24. Engaging in any other action not described in this subsection that is deemed an intentional foul by the Referee on the basis that the action poses a danger to the safety of either fighter, impedes fair and competitive play, or is unsportsmanlike.
25. Spinning back fists.
26. Hammer-fists.
(b) Intentional Foul. At the referee's discretion, any foul defined in subparagraph (a) may be called "intentional."
1. Upon the first occurrence of such intentional foul and during the same round as such intentional foul occurs, the referee may, at his or her discretion and without previous warning, disqualify the offending boxer or deduct one (1) point from the offending boxer.
2. Upon the second occurrence of such intentional foul, the referee may, at his or her discretion and without previous warning disqualify the offending boxer or deduct two (2) points from the offending boxer.
3. If an intentional foul causes an injury and the injury is severe enough to terminate the bout immediately, the boxer causing the injury shall lose by disqualification.
(c) Unintentional Foul. Except as provided below, no point will be deducted from the score or other disciplinary action taken against either boxer for an unintentional foul unless a previous warning has been given to the offending boxer. For the purposes of this subparagraph, unintentional fouls are actions as described by sub-paragraph (a) above, which in the judgment of the referee were not intentionally caused.
1. If an unintentional foul causes an injury severe enough for the referee to stop the bout immediately, the bout result will be announced in accordance with the Uniform Championship Rules in effect at the time of the bout.
a. Currently the Uniform Championship Rules state that a bout stopped before four completed rounds will be reported as a "No Contest."
2. If an unintentional foul causes an injury severe enough for the referee to stop the bout after four (4) rounds have been completed, the bout will result in a Technical Decision (TW), awarded to the boxer who is ahead on the score cards at the time the bout is stopped.
a. Partial or incomplete rounds will be scored. If no action has occurred, the round shall be scored as an even round.
(6) Low Blows: Intentional or Unintentional.
(a) Recuperation Time. Any contestant struck by a low blow may, at the discretion and after consultation with the ring physician, be given up to five (5) minutes to recuperate.
1. During such recuperation the injured boxer may sit on a stool inside the ring, or in a neutral corner, but may not rest in his assigned corner.
2. Only the referee is allowed to assist the injured boxer during the five minute rest period.
3. The uninjured fighter, during any such rest period, may not be assisted and shall remain in the neutral corner furthest from the boxer.

Rule 85-5-.08 Conduct of Bout

(1) Bare-Knuckle Boxers.
(a) Federal Identification Card. All bare-knuckle boxers must have a valid national Federal Identification Card issued by their home state per the Association of Boxing Commissions.
(b) Prohibition if Under Suspension. No bare-knuckle boxer shall enter any agreement or contract with a promoter, compete, or attempt to compete in any match in Georgia when such bare-knuckle boxer knows that his or her combat sports license issued by this Commission or by any other boxing Commission is under suspension.
(c) Pregnancy. No bare-knuckle boxer shall enter any agreement or contract with a promoter, compete, or attempt to compete in any match in Georgia when such boxer knows that she is pregnant.
(d) Weigh-In.
1. Preliminary Weigh-In. All fighters must video record a Preliminary Weigh-in one week prior to the Official Weigh-in. That video must be reported to the promoter.
i. The promoter should save these recordings for 1 year.
ii. Fighters are required to be within 10% of their scheduled weight.
iii. Should either or both of the contestants weigh more than 10% above their scheduled weight, the promoter may increase the weight class limit, with the consent of both parties.
2. Official Weigh-In. In all contests or exhibitions, contestants shall weigh-in at a previously agreed upon time and in the presence of an authorized Commission representative, provided however that such weigh-in shall not take place less than six hours nor more than 36 hours prior to the contest or exhibition.
i. All official weigh-ins, unless otherwise agreed to in advance by the Commission, shall be conducted outside the view of the general public.
ii. Ceremonial weigh-ins may be conducted in such manner and at such place as agreed to by all parties involved in the promotion or match.
iii. The weigh-in will last for 2 hours after the agreed upon time.
iv. Contestants who have not arrived in the first hour will be placed on the clock and their hour to cut weight will start. When the contestant arrives, and weighs-in, the contestant will only have the remaining time of the 2-hour weigh-in window to cut any weight if they missed their agreed upon weight.
3. Missing Weight
i. Any fighter who does not make weight at an Official Weigh-In may be fined and may further be subject to denial of Commission approval to fight at the failed weight class during his/her next bout.
ii. Any fighter who twice does not make weight at an Official Weigh-In may be fined and may further be subject to denial of Commission approval to fight at the failed weight class during his/her next two bouts.
(e) Weight Classes.
1. Strawweight: 100-107 lbs.
2. Flyweight: 108-115 lbs.
3. Bantamweight: 116-125 lbs.
4. Featherweight: 126-135 lbs.
5. Lightweight: 136-145 lbs.
6. Welterweight: 146-155 lbs.
7. Middleweight: 156-165 lbs.
8. Super Middleweight: 166-175 lbs.
9. Light Heavyweight: 176-185 lbs.
10. Middle Heavyweight: 186-205 lbs.
11. Cruiserweight: 206-225 lbs.
12. Heavyweight: 226-265 lbs.
13. Super Heavyweight: 266 lbs. and up
(f) Weight Spread. No bare-knuckle boxing contest or exhibition may be scheduled if the difference in weight between the boxers exceeds the following allowance.
1. Up to 118 lbs.-not more than 3 pounds
2. 118 lbs. to 126 lbs.-not more than 5 pounds
3. 126 lbs.-135 lbs.-not more than 6 pounds
4. 135 lbs.-147 lbs.-not more than 7 pounds
5. 147 lbs.-200 lbs.-not more than 9 pounds
6. 200 lbs. and over (Heavyweight)-no limit
(g) Contestants: Entering Ring. All contestants must be ready to enter the ring immediately upon the conclusion of the preceding bout.
(h) Contestants: Demeanor During the Round. Each contestant shall take care to avoid fouling their opponent or illegally striking their opponent.
(i) Penalty for Disqualification. Any bare-knuckle boxer who is disqualified for any reason by the referee or the Commission representative supervising the show and is therefore unable to fulfill the terms of their contract will forfeit their entire purse and will be subject to a fine not to exceed fifty percent (50%) of the contracted amount of the purse.
1. Any bare-knuckle boxer who has forfeited their purse because of a loss by disqualification has a right to appeal during either the next two scheduled Commission meetings, and must so notify the Commission in writing within fifteen days of the disqualification of their intent to appeal. Failure to notify the Commission within the fifteen-day period of the intention to appeal the forfeiture will be tantamount to a waiver of any further appeal rights.
(2) Seconds.
(a) Number Allowed. Each bare-knuckle boxer may have up to three seconds, except if the Commission permits otherwise. Each contestant shall have one chief second and each chief must have a complete first aid kit.
(b) Leaving the Ring: Seconds shall leave the ring enclosure at the sound of the timekeeper's whistle. They shall leave the ring platform promptly when the gong sounds for the beginning of each round and immediately remove all obstructions, including stools, buckets, and any other corner equipment. None of these articles shall be replaced on the ring floor until the gong has sounded the end of a round.
(c) Assisting Contestant During Bout: Prohibited. During the progress of the rounds, seconds shall not throw water on the contestant or in any way assist or interfere the contestant.
(d) Throwing Towel: Prohibited. Seconds are forbidden from tossing a towel into the ring in token defeat of their boxer.
(e) Ejection and Disqualification. Violations of the provisions of this subparagraph may be followed by ejection of the offender from the ring corner and may result in the disqualification of their contestant by the referee.
(3) Between Round Care. Between round care of a boxer will be strictly enforced by the Commission.
(a) Second: Only One Allowed in Ring. Only one person will be allowed in the ring with the bare-knuckle boxer during the rest period between rounds and no more than two people, exclusive to the Commission inspector and approved media personnel, will be allowed on the apron during that time.
(b) Corner Kit: Substances Allowed. The use of an unapproved preparation during the match is prohibited. The only substances and materials allowed in the corner are:
1. Ice
2. Water
3. Cotton Swabs
4. Gauze Pads
5. Clean Towels
6. Vaseline or surgical lubricants
7. Enswell
8. Avitene or adrenaline
(c) Corner Kit: Substances Prohibited. Substances such as Monsell's solution, other iron or bismuth compounds, collodion, silver nitrate, ammonia or smelling salts will not be used and the use of such modalities will result in disqualification, suspension or fine of the boxer, manager and/or trainer.
(d) Excessive Lubricant. The use of excessive lubricant on the body, arms or face of a boxer will not be tolerated.
(e) Re-hydration of Contestant During Bout. Only water will be permitted to ease dehydration of a boxer between rounds. Honey, electrolyte glucose, sugar or any other substance mixed with water is prohibited.
(4) After the Bout.
(a) Contestants to Leave Ring. When the decision of the referee or judges has been announced both contestants and their seconds shall at once leave the ring and retire to their dressing rooms.
(b) Decision: How to Change. A decision rendered at the termination of any boxing contest is final and shall not be changed unless following the rendition of a decision the Commission appointed secretary determines that any one of the following occurred:
1. There was collusion or fraud affecting the result of any contest, or,
2. The compilation of the score cards of the referee and judges reveals a clerical or mathematical error which caused the decision to be given to the wrong bare-knuckle boxer.
3. There was a violation of the laws or rules and regulations governing professional bare-knuckle boxing in Georgia which affected the results of any contest.
4. The Commission supervisor may in his or her discretion change a referee's decision if in his or her judgement a palpable and self-evident error has been committed.
(c) Decision: How to Appeal Commission Supervisor's Ruling.
1. A petition to change a bout decision or the ruling of the Commission appointed supervisor shall be in writing and filed by a bare-knuckle boxer or the bare-knuckle boxer's manager within five (5) business days from the date the decision was rendered.
2. If a petition to change a bout decision or the ruling of the Commission appointed supervisor is not filed in writing within five (5) business days of the decision, the Commissioner may, upon the vote of no less than a majority of the Commissioners present, hold a hearing to change the decision at any time.
3. If the Commission determines that any of the above occurred with regards to any contest then the decision rendered shall be changed as the Commission may direct, and shall notify the national registry within two (2) business days of the change.
4. The Commission's findings of fact and rile in such matters shall be final and may not be appealed.

Rule 85-5-.09 Championship Bouts

(1) Functions of Commission.
(a) The Commission shall have and exercise sole discretion, management, control, and supervision over all professional bare-knuckle boxing matches in the state of Georgia.
(b) The Commission shall enforce such rules and regulations as shall be necessary or proper for the holding of professional bare-knuckle boxing matches in the state of Georgia.
(c) It is within the Commission's power and authority to prescribe and enforce penalties for any violations of these rules or the statute governing the regulation of professional bare-knuckle boxing in the state of Georgia, subject to judicial review.
(2) Investigations, Hearings, and Subpoena Power.
(a) The Commission or any agent designated by it may make investigations and the Commission may hold hearings and issue subpoenas to compel the attendance of witnesses.
(b) The Commission may order the production of books, papers or records for any hearing.
(c) When a hearing takes place, the Commission may administer oaths to and examine any witness for the purpose of examining the question for which the hearing has been called.
(d) Unless otherwise controlled by law or these rules, if the Commission finds a violation of its rules or the statute governing the regulation of professional bare-knuckle boxing in this state has occurred, the Commission may impose a disciplinary fine of not less than $500.00 nor more than $25,000.00 for the first offense and not less than $750.00 nor more than $75,000.00 for any subsequent offense. In addition to any fine, the Commission may suspend or revoke any license.
(e) Within thirty days after the imposition of a fine and/or suspension or revocation by the Commission, a licensee is entitled to judicial review, pursuant to O.C.G.A. ยง 50-13-19.