Rules & Scoring
From the 10-point must system to the definition of a grounded opponent. Understand the laws that govern the cage.
🆕 2024 Rule Updates: As of Nov 1, 2024, "12-6 Elbows" (straight down) are now LEGAL in Unified Rules. The definition of a "Grounded Fighter" has also changed: you must have a hand (palm/fist) or knee down to be grounded. Just touching fingers does not count.
The Standard Framework
Used by the UFC, Bellator, PFL, and most Western commissions.
- Rounds: 3 Rounds (Non-Title), 5 Rounds (Main Event/Title).
- Duration: 5 minutes per round, 1 minute rest.
- Attire: 4oz open-finger gloves, mouthguard, groin cup (men), chest protector (women).
- Grounded Kicks: Illegal to kick/knee the head of a grounded opponent.
10-Point Must System
Three judges score each round independently.
| 10-9 | The Standard. Winner lands more effective strikes or grappling. |
| 10-8 | Dominant. Winner dominates the round with impact and duration. |
| 10-7 | Overwhelming. Total domination, stoppage likely warranted (Rare). |
ONE Championship Rules
Used primarily in Asia. The biggest difference is how fights are judged and the legality of knees on the ground.
| Feature | Unified (UFC) | Global (ONE) |
|---|---|---|
| Scoring Scope | Round-by-Round | Entire Fight (Cumulative) |
| Grounded Knees | Illegal ❌ | Legal ✅ |
| Scoring Priority | Effective Damage > Control | Near KO/Sub > Damage |
| Weigh-ins | Standard Dehydration | Hydration Tests Required |
Universal Fouls
Committing these results in a warning, point deduction, or Disqualification (DQ) depending on intent and damage.
Eye Poking
Groin Strikes
Biting / Spitting
Fish Hooking
Hair Pulling
Strikes to Spine/Back of Head
Small Joint Manipulation
Grabbing the Fence
The Hierarchy of Scoring
Judges do not score everything equally. They follow a strict hierarchy. If "Effective Striking/Grappling" is exactly equal (rare), they move down to the next level.
1. Effective Damage / Impact
2. Effective Aggression
3. Cage / Ring Control
What counts as "Effective"?
It is not about who moves forward. It is about who creates results.
- Immediate Impact: Strikes that cause the opponent to stumble, cut, or change their behavior.
- Cumulative Impact: Swelling, bruising, and visible fatigue caused by strikes.
- Grappling: Takedowns only score heavily if they lead to damage or submission threats. Laying on someone is "Control" (Tier 3) and scores very little compared to Damage (Tier 1).