Origins and Evolution
The UFC debuted on November 12, 1993, with minimal rules prohibiting eye gouging, biting, and low blows. Early marketing as no-holds-barred fighting drew significant criticism. Over time, the New Jersey State Athletic Control Board established the Unified Rules of MMA, now standard in the UFC.
Bout Duration
Standard UFC fights consist of three rounds of five minutes each, with a one-minute rest between rounds. Main events and championship fights are five rounds of five minutes each. Exceptions occur, such as the five-round Leon Edwards vs. Nate Diaz bout and the three-round Israel Adesanya vs. Anderson Silva fight.
Weight Classes
The UFC features eight men’s weight classes ranging from 125 to 265 pounds and four women’s weight classes ranging from 115 to 145 pounds. Fighters in non-title fights have a one-pound allowance, while title fight participants must not exceed the designated weight limit.
Attire
Fighters must wear commission-approved shorts; speedo-style shorts, gis, long pants, and footwear are prohibited. Women can wear shirts. Mandatory gear includes four-ounce gloves, a mouthpiece, and a protective cup, with chest protectors required for women.
Fouls
The Unified Rules of MMA define several fouls, including groin strikes, eye gouging, headbutting, hair pulling, biting, spitting, grabbing the fence or opponent’s shorts, fish-hooking, small joint manipulation, 12-to-6 elbows, striking the back of the head or spine, and kicking or kneeing a grounded opponent. Unsportsmanlike conduct is also prohibited. Referees typically issue warnings for first-time fouls, with repeated violations leading to point deductions or disqualification.
Victory Methods
A fight can end by knockout (KO) when a fighter is unable to continue due to a blow or by technical knockout (TKO) when a fighter cannot defend themselves, prompting a stoppage.
