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Bare Knuckle Fighting is an organization leading the way for safe, legal and authentic bare knuckle fighting for qualified and experienced fighters. As a combat sport that touts a remarkable history, bare knuckle fighting is timeless, and has a long foreseeable future. Bare Knuckle Fighting is headed by Larry Jones, who is dedicated to preserving the history of the sport with an emphasis on safety. Among the first to be legally sanctioned for bare knuckle fighting events in the U.S., Bare Knuckle fighting was founded in Indianapolis, IN.
True to historical legacy, Bare Knuckle Fighting adheres to the Broughton Rules from 17th century bare knuckle fighting, introduced by 18th century English bare knuckle heavyweight champion Jack Broughton. Not only were these the first bare knuckle fighting rules created, but also the first-ever modern boxing rules, laying the foundation for the sport for years to come.
These seven boxing rules became known as “Mr. Broughton’s Rules” and are provided below:
That a square of a yard be chalked in the middle of the stage; and every fresh set-to after a fall, or being parted from the rails, each second is to bring his man to the square and place him opposite to the other; and till they are fairly set-to at the lines, it shall not be lawful for one to strike the other.
That in order to prevent any disputes as to the time a man lies after a fall, if the second does not bring his man to the side of the square within the space of half a minute he shall be deemed a beaten man.
That, in every main battle, no person whatever shall be upon the stage, except the principals and their seconds; the same rule to be observed in the bye-battles, except that in the latter Mr. Broughton is allowed to be upon the stage to keep decorum, and to assist gentlemen in getting to their places; provided always he does not interfere in the battle; and whoever presumes to infringe these rules to be turned immediately out of the house. Everybody is to quit the stage as soon as the champions are stripped, before they set-to.
That no champion be deemed beaten, unless he falls coming up to the line in the limited time; or that his own second declares him beaten. No second is to be allowed to ask his man’s adversary any questions or advise him to give out.
That in the bye-battles, the winning man to have two-thirds of the money given, which shall be publicly divided upon the stage, notwithstanding any private agreement to the contrary.
That to prevent disputes, in every main battle, the principals shall, on the coming on the stage, choose from among the gentlemen present two umpires, who shall absolutely decided all disputes that may arise about the battle; and if the two umpires cannot agree, the said umpires to choose a third, who is to determine it.
That no person is to hit his adversary when he is down, or seize him by the ham, the breeches, or any part below the waist; a man on his knees to be reckoned down.[1]
With safety in mind, all of Bare Knuckle Fighting's bouts are held in a standard 24 square-foot roped-off ring. Fighters are required to “square up” at the beginning of each round by standing face to face, just inches apart from each other in the center of the ring. An exciting, fast-paced bout ensues from there, overseen by qualified referees and judges.
Whereas other fighting and combat sports organizations claiming to host bare knuckle fighting events, Bare Knuckle Fighting adheres to the authentic and historic rules of the fight. Fighters aren't allowed to wrap their hands with tape, gauze or other material within one inch of the knuckle.
In Bare Knuckle Fighting, only qualified professional fighters are allowed to fight, including those well-established in boxing, MMA, kickboxing or Muy Thai. Referees and judges must also qualify by having extensive combat sports experience. Fights are held under the auspices and control of an Athletic Commission which is a standing member of the Association and Boxing Commissions and Combative Sports.
As the sport continues to make a comeback throughout the United States, Bare Knuckle Fighting is paving the way great fighters to be legitimized for their success in the most original and pure form of boxing.
