Section 411.12. Counting by referee during knockdowns and knockouts, determination of a knockdown

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

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

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

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

Historical Notes

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

Statutory Authority

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