The Sport of Boxing
The Sport of BoxingBoxing is often referred to as the “Manly Art of Self Defense.” It is a very
respectable sport that has a rough side to it.
Boxing takes place in a sixteen to twenty-four foot square padded area called a
ring. A boxing match (referred to as a bout) is usually a fast , violent show of strength,
stamina, and skill. The boxers throw powerful punches as each tries to win the bout by
means of points, knocking his opponent unconscious, or forcing him to give up the fight.
While at the same time , each boxer must guard his head and body against the others
punches by dodging or blocking the blows. The action may take place in any part of the
ring as the fighters weave about or press forward, trying to get a chance for a successful
blow or combination.
Good boxers are strong, quick, skillful, and in top physical condition. They also have
the courage and determination to fight in spite of pain and exhaustion.
Boxers fight as amateurs or professionals. Most amateurs compete as members of
and organization or team and some box in tournaments. Amateurs may not accept or
receive money for boxing. Professionals fight for money and are often referred to as
prize fighters.
Boxing Regulations
The rules followed for amateurs and professional bouts do differ for the United States
and in international and Olympic Game competition.
Weight Classes-Boxers compete in classes, or divisions, based on their weight. To
fight in a particular class, a boxer may not weigh more than the maximum for that class.
The professional weight classes from heaviest to lightest is Heavyweight, Junior
Heavyweight , Middleweight, Junior Middleweight, Welterweight, Junior Welterweight,
Lightweight, Junior Lightweight, Featherweight, Junior Featherweight,
Bantomweight, Junior Bantomweight, Flyweight, Junior Flyweight.
The Ring- The ring is a square platform measuring sixteen to twenty-four feet on
each side. For professional championship bouts, the boxers may select the size of the ring
within these limits on the approval of the local boxing commission. At least three ropes
attached to a post at each corner, surround the ring. The floor of the ring has a canvas
covering stretched over felt or foam rubber. The ring floor stands three to four feet
higher than the floor of the arena.
Equipment- A boxers hands are wrapped in soft cloth bandages , over the bandages he
wears padded gloves. His gloves soften his punches and protect his hands as well as his
opponent from injury. The gloves weigh eight or ten ounces. Boxers wear trunks and
light weight shoes that lace just above the ankle. A mouthpiece of hard rubber protects
the teeth, and a plastic cup protects the sex organs. Both amateur and professionals wear
a protective leather helmet when training. Amateur fighters may wear...
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