IKF FREESTYLE KICKBOXING

Bout Structure

Each round lasts 2 minutes with a 1-minute rest between.
Most bouts are 3 rounds; championship bouts may be 5 rounds.
Fights take place in a ring with at least four ropes or an IKF-approved padded enclosure (minimum 16’x16′).

The referee, ringside physician, or IKF lead representative are the only ones who can stop a bout.
Referee authority begins when inspectors exit the ring and ends when they return post-fight.

Mouthguard required; no round starts without it.
Fighters wear 10 oz. hybrid shooter gloves (half-finger, bubble-style).
Hand wraps: 1 roll of gauze (20 yds max) + 1 roll of tape (10 ft max) per hand.
Mandatory gear:
- Headgear (taped/secured)
- Shin guards with instep padding
- Groin protection (males)
Female attire: Rash guard/sports bra (no loose tops), optional breast protection.
No shoes or jewelry. Hair must be safely secured.

Leaving the ring without permission = disqualification or TKO.
Knockdowns:
- Mandatory 8-count
- No saving by the bell
- Outside ring knockdowns: apron = 10-count; floor/table = 20-count
Standing 8-count is in effect.
Fighters must rise without assistance.

Fighters have 5 seconds in the clinch to throw knees/elbows or execute takedowns.
Once grounded: no striking allowed.
Fighters must return to their feet promptly and safely.
Posting out with arms to break a fall is discouraged due to injury risk.

Bouts scored using the 10-Point Must System
- 10-9: Clear advantage
- 10-8: Dominance or knockdown
- 10-7/10-6: Multiple knockdowns
Judges evaluate damage, domination, and duration, then aggressiveness/control.
Grounding techniques may affect scoring (dominance/damage).
Ties are judged on aggressiveness, control, and effective defense.