Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145 — Athletic Commission

Chapter 0145-01 General Provisions

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-01-.01 APPLICABILITY

The provisions of this chapter shall apply to all professional unarmed combat contests held or scheduled to be held in the state of Tennessee.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2 and T.C.A. § 68-115-201 [effective July 1, 2008].
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-01-.02 DEFINITIONS

As used in the rules of the Tennessee Athletic Commission, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) “Amateur” means a person who has never competed in an unarmed combat sport competition or contest for any purse or item of value, other than for a prize or item of value which does not exceed fifty dollars ($50.00), including reasonable expenses, except those involved in Olympic organizations recognized by the Tennessee Athletic Commission as a sanctioning organization.

(2) “Application fee” means the fee due at the time an application for a license is submitted to the Commission.

(3) “Association of Boxing Commission” means the association recognized by state athletic commissions, which affiliate with such association regarding rules and regulations of unarmed combat sports. The association may also mean and be referred to as the “ABC Association for Professional Unarmed Combat Contests”.

(4) “Banned substances” means substances defined by the World Anti-Doping Agency, in addition to any illegal substance.

(5) “Bare-knuckle boxing” means boxing where unarmed combatants do not wear gloves or any form of padding on their hands.

(6) “Boxing” means unarmed combat to compete with the fists. Boxing may include bare-knuckle boxing, unless the application to bare-knuckle boxing would result in conflict with the requirements for bare-knuckle boxing in Chapter 0145-06 of these rules.

(7) “Combatant” means any person eighteen (18) years of age or older who engages in a professional unarmed combat contest.

(8) “Commission” means the Tennessee Athletic Commission.

(9) “Commissioner” means any member of the Tennessee Athletic Commission.

(10) “Contest” means an unarmed combat sport competition in which licensed combatants compete for a purse or item of value greater than that amount authorized for an amateur event.

(11) “Department” means the Department of Commerce and Insurance.

(12) “Event” means an amateur event in which amateurs compete in an unarmed combat sport competition in accordance with Title 68, Chapter 115. “Event” does not include sparring wherein amateurs engage in unarmed combat for practice and not competition and is not promoted or organized by a promoter.

(13) “Immediate family member” means a spouse, parent, sibling or child.

(14) “Kickboxing” means unarmed combat involving the use of striking techniques delivered with the upper and lower body, and in which the combatants remain standing while striking.

(15) “Manager” means a person who:

(a) Undertakes to represent the interests of another person by contract, agreement or other arrangement, in procuring arranging or conducting a professional contest in which such person will participate as a combatant;

(b) Directs or controls the activities of an unarmed combatant relating to the participation of the unarmed combatant in a professional contest;

(c) Receives or is entitled to receive at least ten percent (10%) of the gross purse of any professional unarmed combatant for services relating to the participation of the unarmed combatant in a professional contest; or (d) Receives compensation for services as an agent or representative of an unarmed combatant.

The term does not include an attorney who is licensed to practice law in this state if the attorney’s participation in any of the activities described in subdivision (a) is limited solely to the attorney’s legal representation of a client who is an unarmed combatant.

(16) “Matchmaker” means a person who brings together professional boxers, kickboxers or mixed martial art combatants or arranges professional contests of unarmed combat.

(17) “Mixed martial arts” means unarmed combat using a combination of techniques from different disciplines of the martial arts, including kicking, wrestling, and striking, subject to applicable limitations set forth in the Tennessee Athletic Commission Act of 2008 and rules promulgated by the Commission.

(18) “Permit” means a certification of approval for a contest, issued upon receipt of an application and fee that shall be established and collected, pursuant to the rulemaking authority of the Commission for professional contests.

(19) “Person” means and includes individuals, corporations, limited liability companies, partnerships or associations, domestic and foreign.

(20) “Physician” means a person licensed to practice medicine in the state of Tennessee.

(21) “Professional” means a person who competes in an unarmed combat sport contest in this state for the purpose of a purse or item of value greater than that amount authorized for an amateur event.

(22) “Promoter” means any person who produces, stages, or sponsors any professional contest of unarmed combat.

(23) “Purse” means the financial guarantee or any other remuneration for which combatants are participating in a professional contest and includes the combatant’s share of any payment received for radio broadcasting, television or motion picture right.

(24) “Ring official” means any person who performs any one (1) or more of the following official functions during the progress of a professional contest of unarmed combat:

(a) “Announcer” means a person authorized to act as an announcer at unarmed combat contests or amateur events.

(b) “Judge” means a person who is responsible for scoring the performances of the combatants in a professional contest;

(c) “Referee” means a person who is present in the ring during the professional contest and exercises general supervision;

(d) “Ringside physician” means a person licensed to practice medicine in the state of Tennessee and licensed by the Commission as a ring official;

(e) “Timekeeper” means a person who is the official timer of the length of the rounds and the intervals thereof in a professional contest of unarmed combat.

(25) “Sanctioning organization” means an organization recognized by the Tennessee Athletic Commission that sanctions professional contests of unarmed combat and is required to comply with all provisions of this act. “Sanctioning organization” may also mean an organization recognized by the Tennessee Athletic Commission that adopts rules and regulations pursuant to the provisions of T.C.A. § 68-115-213.

(26) “Second” means a person, including a manager, who is present at any professional unarmed combat contest to provide assistance or advice to combatants during a professional contest of unarmed combat.

(27) “Show settlement” means the period of time immediately following the professional contest in which a Commission member or the Commission’s administrator or his or her designee shall meet with venue personnel and the contest promoter to review ticket sales and collect fees due if paid immediately following the professional contest.

(28) “Unarmed combat” means and shall include boxing, mixed martial arts, and kickboxing as defined and regulated under the provisions of the Tennessee Athletic Commission Act of 2008.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 68-115-102, 68-115-201, and 68-115-404.
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009. Amendments filed May 8, 2019; effective August 6, 2019. Amendments filed December 5, 2024; effective March 5, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-01-.03 LICENSING

(1) No person, firm, or corporation shall promote any contest of unarmed combat, or participate in any contest of unarmed combat as a promoter, matchmaker, combatant, manager, second, announcer, referee, judge, ringside physician or timekeeper without a valid license issued by the Commission.

(2) Applications for licenses shall be submitted on forms prescribed by the Commission. The applicant shall completely and truthfully respond to all questions or requests for information propounded on, or in connection with, the application. The license shall be denied if the applicant fails to respond to all questions or to provide any requested information. The Commission, or the Commission’s administrator, may require any applicant to demonstrate his competence by submission of references or successful completion of a written or oral examination.

(3) Applications for new licenses or the renewal of existing licenses shall be accompanied by a nonrefundable application fee of fifty dollars ($50.00) as well as a license fee as stipulated below.

License fees are as follows:

Announcer $ 100.00 Promoter $ 500.00 Matchmaker $ 100.00 Boxer $ 25.00 Mixed Martial Artist $ 25.00 Kickboxer $ 25.00 Manager $ 100.00 Second $ 25.00 Referee $ 75.00 Judge $ 50.00 Timekeeper $ 50.00 If the license is applied for within twenty-four (24) hours of the scheduled start of the contest, the applicant shall pay a twenty-five dollar ($25.00) penalty in addition to the nonrefundable application fee for a total of seventy-five dollars ($75.00).

Such fee shall not be prorated for any portion of a year. Every license shall expire two (2) years following the date of issuance. No license fee shall be charged for a Ringside Physician license.

(4) No license issued by the Commission under this chapter shall be transferable.

(5) All combatants applying for a license, or the renewal thereof, shall be required to submit, upon application, on a form approved by the Commission, a report of a medical examination, including but not limited to a dilated eye exam performed by a licensed optometrist or ophthalmologist and a blood test for Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and HIV, performed no earlier than ninety (90) days prior to applying for such license or renewal thereof. Professional combatants who are thirty-five (35) years of age or older shall have a neurological examination by a neurologist or neurosurgeon and submit a medical report thereof within thirty (30) days of applying for a license or renewal thereof. The Commission will not issue a license until it has the opportunity to review the report.

(6) The Commission’s administrator shall have the authority to examine the combatant’s record, experience, skill and physical condition and may deny the issuance of a license if, in the administrator’s opinion, the combatant’s record, experience, skill and physical condition indicate the combatant is unqualified to participate in professional contests of unarmed combat. The applicant may appeal the administrator’s decision to deny the issuance of a license to the Commission. Any such appeal will be heard at the next regularly scheduled meeting of the Commission.

(7) No person shall be permitted to compete in any contest of unarmed combat unless the person:

(a) Is at least eighteen (18) years of age; and (b) Furnishes satisfactory identification (including photograph) to the Commission.

(8) No promoter’s license shall be issued or renewed unless the applicant presents a good and sufficient surety bond executed to the state of Tennessee in an amount no less than twentyfive thousand dollars ($25,000.00).

(9) Conviction of a felony or a misdemeanor by any applicant for a promoter, matchmaker, manager, judge or referee license or, in the event the applicant is a corporation, partnership or limited liability company, the partner or any party in responsible charge of the company, may disqualify the applicant from licensure.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2; Tennessee Athletic Commission Act of 2016; and T.C.A. §§ 68-115-201, 68-115-204, and 68-115-206 [effective July 1, 2008].
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009. Amendments filed May 8, 2019; effective August 6, 2019. Amendments filed July 13, 2023; effective October 11, 2023.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-01-.04 PERMITS FOR PROFESSIONAL CONTESTS

(1) A promoter of a contest of unarmed combat shall obtain a permit from the Commission not less than thirty (30) days prior to the date of the contest.

(2) Applications for permits shall be submitted on forms prescribed by the Commission. The applicant shall completely and truthfully respond to all questions or requests for information propounded on, or in connection with, the application. Applications for permits shall include, without limitation:

(a) The address where the contest is to be held;

(b) A list of the individual contests to be held, if more than one contest, including the names, addresses, phone numbers and contracted weights of all prospective contestants (i.e. the “contest sheet”);

(d) A list of ring officials from which the Commission or the Commission’s administrator may assign to the event. The Commission or the Commission’s administrator may assign ring officials not contained in the list. The promoter will be responsible for payment for the ring officials’ services; and (e) Proof of medical insurance covering the combatant for any injuries sustained in any contest to be held under the permit in an amount of not less than twenty thousand dollars ($20,000.00).

Provided that the promoter has completed the application completely and provided all requested information, an application for permit will be processed within five (5) business days from the date of receipt.

(3) The promoter shall immediately notify the Commission’s administrator of any change in the information submitted pursuant to paragraph (2) above. The contest sheet shall be deemed final seven (7) business days prior to the contest.

(4) If the Commission’s administrator determines (on the basis of available information) that a proposed contest would not be reasonably and fairly competitive, the administrator shall so advise the promoter within five (5) business days after receipt of the application submitted in accordance with this rule. Unless the administrator is offered evidence or argument which causes him or her to reverse that determination, such contest shall not be held in this state and any permit issued for a program of multiple unarmed combat contests shall not include the same. The applicant may appeal the administrator’s decision to the Commission.

(5) If the Commission’s administrator determines that a proposed venue would not be appropriate, the administrator shall so advise the promoter within five (5) business days after receipt of the application submitted in accordance with this rule. Unless the administrator is offered evidence or argument which causes him or her to reverse that determination, such venue shall not be utilized. The applicant may appeal the administrator’s decision to the Commission.

(6) The fee for the permit shall be three hundred dollars ($300.00).

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2 and T.C.A. §§ 68-115-201 and 68-115-205 [effective July 1, 2008].
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009. Amendments filed July 11, 2018; effective October 9, 2018.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-01-.05 RESPONSIBILITIES OF PROMOTERS

(1) It shall be the responsibility of the promoter of an unarmed combat contest to inform all prospective participants that it will be necessary for them to be duly licensed in accordance with Rule 0145-01-.03 Licensing.

(2) No promoter shall knowingly permit any person to act as a boxer, mixed martial artist, kickboxer, ring official, manager, or second in any contest if such person is (or would be) prohibited from acting in such capacity by any provision of the Tennessee Athletic Commission Act of 2016, or any amended version thereafter, or any rules or regulations of the Tennessee Athletic Commission.

(3) The promoter shall assure that the ringside physician is seated so as to have immediate access to the ring.

(4) The promoter shall provide surgical gloves to all persons working in the ring. No promoter shall knowingly permit any person to act as a second (including a manager acting as a second) or referee in any contest unless such person is supplied with, and uses, such surgical gloves. The promoter is responsible for ensuring that acceptable sanitary standards are met with respect to dressing rooms, water bottles, towels or other equipment. Physicians and commission representatives shall specifically check at every contest or event for violations of these rules. The ring shall be swept, dry-mopped, or otherwise adequately cleaned before the event and prior to each fight.

(5) Prior to the initiation of any contest or event, a Commission representative shall inspect the bout area for safety and the promoter of the contest or event shall be required to make whatever changes to such area as are necessary in the judgment of the Commission representative.

(6) The promoter shall ensure that the emergency equipment and procedures required by T.C.A. § 68-115-404 are provided for at each unarmed combat contest.

(7) No person may arrange, promote, organize, or produce a professional unarmed combat contest without providing health insurance for each combatant to provide medical coverage for any injuries sustained in the contest in an amount not less than twenty thousand dollars ($20,000.00). The promoter shall provide proof of such coverage at the time the promoter applies for a permit for a professional contest.

(8) The promoter shall ensure the venue provides a sufficient ringside area for commission officials and ring officials to carry out their official duties.

(9) The promoter shall be responsible for the cost of any tests or examinations ordered by the Commission’s administrator, or his designee, pursuant to Rule 0145-01-.08.

(10) The promoter shall file with the Commission’s administrator a copy of any and all contracts entered into for the sale, lease, or other exploitation of broadcasting, television or motion picture rights for any professional contest.

(11) The promoter shall be responsible for ensuring appropriate ring officials are contracted for the contest or event. The promoter shall be responsible for ensuring each ring official is:

(a) Aware of the rules for the contest or event;

(b) Aware of all emergency procedures, the location of emergency/medical equipment at the venue, and the location of emergency/medical personnel at the venue; and (c) Wearing professional attire necessary for the contest or event, as determined by the promoter.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 68-115-201, 68-115-203, 68-115-204, 68-115-211, 68-115-213, and 68-115-214 [effective July 1, 2008].
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009. Amendments filed July 11, 2018; effective October 9, 2018. Amendments filed June 26, 2025; effective September 24, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-01-.06 WEIGH-IN

(1) The promoter of a bout shall furnish an accurate scale for the weigh-in. Such scale shall be available to the contestants at least eight (8) hours prior to the weigh-in time.

(2) Upon receipt of an application for a permit pursuant to Rule 0145-01-.04, the Commission’s administrator shall establish a time and place for the weigh-in. In setting such time and place, the administrator shall consider any expressed preference of the promoter; however, the decision of the administrator shall be final.

(3) Unless otherwise authorized by the Commission’s administrator, the contestants shall appear at the time and place designated for the weigh-in.

(4) All weigh-ins shall be under the supervision and control of the Commission’s administrator and/or his or her designee.

(5) Weigh-ins may occur up to forty-eight (48) hours before the scheduled start of a contest.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2 and T.C.A. §§ 68-115-201, 68-115-204, 68-115- 401, and 68-115-402 [effective July 1, 2008].
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009. Amendments filed May 8, 2019; effective August 6, 2019.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-01-.07 RING OFFICIALS GENERALLY

(1) No promoter, or official, director or stockholder thereof, shall act as a referee, judge, or timekeeper at any bout conducted by such promoter.

(2) No person shall act or agree to act as a ring official under any circumstances which might reasonably appear to impair his or her capacity to exercise independent judgment.

(3) No ring official shall consume, or be under the influence of, alcoholic beverages or drugs during the course of his official duties.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2 and T.C.A. § 68-115-201 [effective July 1, 2008].
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-01-.08 COMBATANTS GENERALLY

(1) The administration or use of drugs or stimulants, either before or during a bout, to or by any combatant, is prohibited. Any contestant violating this provision shall be subject to disqualification. For the purpose of verifying compliance with this rule, the Commission’s administrator or his designee may require that one or both contestants in a bout submit to a urinalysis, blood test, or, if recommended by the ringside physician, any other pre- or postfight examination.

(2) All combatants shall attend the pre-fight rules meeting held the day of or the day before all professional contests, with the meeting to be conducted by the referee and the Commission’s administrator or his or her designee.

(3) Combatants shall obey the referee at all times during the bout.

(4) Combatants shall act with proper sportsmanship at all times and shall obey the provisions of the Tennessee Athletic Commission Act of 2016 and these rules at all times.

(5) In addition to the pre-licensing medical examination, all combatants shall complete a precontest medical form as provided by the Commission and be subject to a pre-contest medical examination to be performed by the ringside physician, or another physician as selected by the Commission’s administrator. A pre-contest examination of a female combatant should include abdominal, breast, and pelvic examinations. Any female combatant shall provide the examining physician with the results of a pregnancy test performed on the combatant within the previous fourteen (14) days. If such results are positive, that combatant shall not be permitted to compete.

(6) Combatants failing to appear for the weigh-in, any pre-fight meetings, the contest or bout, shall be subject to discipline which may include civil penalties or suspension at the discretion of the Commission.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2; Tennessee Athletic Commission Act of 2016; and T.C.A. §§ 68-115-201, 68-115-204, 68-115-216, 68-115-402, 68-115-403, and 68-115-405 [effective July 1, 2008].
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009. Amendments filed July 13, 2023; effective October 11, 2023.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-01-.09 TREATMENT OR HOSPITALIZATION

(1) In the event of any serious injury, the ringside physician may immediately render any emergency treatment necessary, recommend further treatment or hospitalization if indicated.

The ringside physician shall fully report the entire matter to the Commission within twentyfour (24) hours and subsequently thereafter, if necessary. Such physician may also require that the injured combatant and his manager remain in the ring or on the premises after the contest for such period of time as the physician deems advisable.

(2) In the event that a combatant who has suffered a knockout or any severe injury has on such account been treated by the combatant’s personal physician or has been hospitalized, the combatant or his manager must promptly submit to the Commission a full report from such physician or hospital.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2 and T.C.A. § 68-115-201 [effective July 1, 2008].
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-01-.10 CONTRACTS FOR COMBATANTS

Every contract for the services of a combatant in any bout in this state shall be in writing and:

(1) Include a term incorporating by reference the statutes and rules governing professional contests in Tennessee;

(2) Contain no other terms in conflict with such statutes or rules; and (3) Be available for review by the Commission at any reasonable time upon request.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2 and T.C.A. § 68-115-201 [effective July 1, 2008].
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009.

Chapter 0145-02 Professional Boxing

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.01 APPLICABILITY

(1) The provisions of this chapter shall apply to all professional boxing contests held or scheduled to be held in the state of Tennessee and shall take precedent over any other rules, including but not limited to rules of any sanctioning organization, that are in any way directly or indirectly in conflict with any provision set forth in this chapter, unless the Commission modifies or waives such provision. The provisions of this chapter shall also apply to bareknuckle boxing bouts, unless they conflict with the rules specifically applicable to bareknuckle boxing.

(2) The Commission may modify or waive any provision hereunder:

(a) In cases of undue hardship, demonstrable impracticality, or necessity;

(b) For the purpose of allowing a bout to be sanctioned by a recognized boxing association, council, or organization; or (c) To accept an alternative rule set, in whole or in part, for a boxing contest or event. Any alternative rule set must be approved by the Commission prior to the scheduled contest or event. The Commission may revoke the approval of the alternative rule set if the Commission later determines the alternative rule set poses a risk to the health, safety, or welfare of the individuals participating in the contest or event.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 68-115-201 and 68-115-203.
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009. Amendments filed December 5, 2024; effective March 5, 2025. Amendments filed June 26, 2025; effective September 24, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.02 RING

(1) The ring shall not be less than sixteen feet (16’) nor more than twenty-four feet (24’) square within the ropes. The floor of the ring shall extend not less than sixteen inches (16”) nor more than two feet (2’) beyond the ropes on all sides of the ring. Such floor shall be padded with a one inch (1”) layer of Ensolite (or the equivalent) placed over a one inch (1”) base of building board or other suitable material. The padding shall be covered with canvas, duck, or similar material tightly stretched and laced securely in place under the apron.

(2) The ring platform shall not be more than four feet (4’) above the floor of the building, and shall be provided with suitable steps. If the ring platform is not elevated at least three and one-half feet (3 1/2’) above the floor of the building, there shall be a clear space of four feet (4’) from the ring posts on all sides.

(3) Ring posts shall be constructed of metal, shall provide sufficient structural support, shall be properly padded, and shall extend from the floor of the building to a height of fifty-eight inches (58”) above the ring floor.

(4) There shall be four (4) ring ropes not less than one inch (1”) in diameter. All ropes shall be wrapped securely in soft material, and shall be tightly drawn. The lower rope shall be eighteen inches (18”) above the ring floor; the second rope thirty inches (30”); the third rope forty-two inches (42”); and the fourth rope, fifty-four inches (54”) above the ring floor.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2 and T.C.A. § 68-115-201.
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.03 BELL

A device capable of producing a tone easily audible to the contestants shall be fastened securely at or below the floor level of the ring.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2 and T.C.A. § 68-115-201.
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.04 BANDAGES

Contestant’s hands shall be wrapped with soft gauze bandages not more than three inches (3”) in width held in place by not more than eight feet (8’) of surgeon’s tape one inch (1”) in width. The binding of surgeon’s tape must not be applied within one-half inch (1/2”) of the knuckles of the contestant’s hand.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2 and T.C.A. § 68-115-201.
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.05 GLOVES

(1) Glove weights for each weight classification shall be as provided in the Association of Boxing Commissions’ (ABC) Regulatory Guidelines for Weight Classes, Weight Differences and Glove Weight Guidelines, as modified July 27, 2005.

(2) Ends of glove laces shall be securely taped.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2 and T.C.A. § 68-115-201.
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009. Amendments filed July 5, 2017; effective October 3, 2017.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.06 PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT

(1) Each boxer shall be equipped with, and use throughout the bout:

(a) Equipment which will preclude any claim of incapacity due to low blows; and (b) A custom-made, individually fabricated mouth guard; provided, however, that a referee shall not call time for the purpose of replacing any mouthpiece which is knocked out or dropped during a bout.

(2) Female boxers may wear a breast protector.

(3) Each referee and all seconds (including a manager acting as a second) shall be equipped with surgical gloves which shall be worn throughout the bout.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2 and T.C.A. § 68-115-201.
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009. Amendments filed September 25, 2019; effective December 24, 2019.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.07 SHOES

Shoes shall be of soft material, and shall not be fitted with spikes, cleats, hard soles, or hard heels.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2 and T.C.A. § 68-115-201.
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.08 WEIGHT CLASSIFICATIONS

Bouts shall be conducted in the weight classifications, and with weight differences as provided in the Association of Boxing Commissions’ (ABC) Regulatory Guidelines for Weight Classes, Weight Differences and Glove Weight Guidelines, as modified July 27, 2005.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2 and T.C.A. § 68-115-201.
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009. Amendments filed July 5, 2017; effective October 3, 2017.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.09 SECONDS

(1) A contestant in a bout is permitted a maximum of five (5) licensed seconds to assist the contestant between rounds in his or her corner. A licensed manager may act as a second without possessing a second’s license.

(2) No second shall enter the ring while a round is in progress.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2; Tennessee Athletic Commission Act of 2016; and T.C.A. §§ 68-115-201 and 68-115-203.
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009. Amendments filed July 13, 2023; effective October 11, 2023.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.10 REFEREES

(1) Each bout shall be officiated by a referee who is licensed in accordance with Rule 0145-01- .03. The referee shall be responsible for enforcing the provisions of this chapter relating to the conduct of such bout. He or she shall maintain effective supervision and control over the contest while it is in progress. The referee shall effectively communicate all of his or her decisions and actions concerning a bout through clear and appropriate signals and/or notifications.

(2) Prior to the start of a bout, the referee shall:

(a) Confirm that the contestants and their seconds possess current and valid licenses issued under the authority of this chapter;

(b) Confirm that a commission representative has inspected and initialed (to denote the representative’s approval of) the bandages of each contestant;

(d) Observe the fitting of each contestant’s gloves;

(e) Ensure that no foreign substances have been applied to the gloves, bandages, protective equipment, or body of the contestants, and that their equipment is in order; and (f) Ensure that all persons working the ring wear surgical gloves.

(3) The referee may:

(a) Stop a contest and consult with the ringside physician on the advisability of allowing it to continue; and (b) Warn, penalize or disqualify a contestant for:

Hitting below the belt;
Hitting an opponent who is down or is getting up after being down;
Holding an opponent with one (1) hand and hitting with the other;
Holding or deliberately maintaining a clinch;
Wrestling or kicking;
Butting with the head or shoulder or using the knee;
Hitting with the open glove, or with the butt of the hand, the wrist, or the elbow;
Purposely going down without being hit;
Striking deliberately at the part of the body over the kidneys;
The use of the pivot blow or the deliberate use of the rabbit punch;
Jabbing opponent’s eyes with the thumb of the glove;
The use of abusive language in the ring;
Any unsportsman-like conduct or action causing injury to an opponent;
Hitting on the break;
Hitting after the bell has sounded ending the round;
Roughing at the ropes; or 17. Pushing an opponent about the ring, or into or through the ropes.

(4) If a referee has reason to believe that a foul which he or she did not see may have been committed, he or she may poll the judges to determine whether such foul was committed.

The referee may consider any, all or none of the opinions expressed in making his or her determination. The referee may, in his or her sole discretion, ask for a replay, if television equipment is available, before rendering his or her decision.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2; Tennessee Athletic Commission Act of 2016; and T.C.A. §§ 68-115-201, 68-115-203, 68-115-210, and 68-115-404.
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009. Amendments filed July 13, 2023; effective October 11, 2023.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.11 TIMEKEEPER

(1) At all bouts there shall be a licensed timekeeper who possesses a whistle and/or some other sound device and an accurate stopwatch. The timekeeper shall be seated outside the ring close to the sound device required by Rule 0145-02-.03.

(2) The timekeeper shall indicate the beginning and ending of each round by activating the sound device. Ten (10) seconds before the beginning of each round, the timekeeper shall warn the seconds of the contestants by blowing the whistle.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2 and T.C.A. § 68-115-201.
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.12 SCORING

(1) All bouts will be scored by the “ten-point must” system by a minimum of three (3) judges. In this system the winner of each round receives ten (10) points and the opponent a proportionately less number, but under no circumstances less than seven (7). When the round is even, each boxer receives ten (10) points.

(2) A referee may participate in the scoring of a bout without possessing a judge’s license.

However, it is recommended that the referee take no part in the scoring of a bout in order to devote maximum attention to the proper performance of his or her supervisory responsibilities.

(3) Whenever a referee decides to penalize a contestant because of a foul or other infraction of the rules, he or she shall notify both corners and the judges of the number of points to be deducted from such contestant at the end of the round in which the infraction occurs. The judges shall adjust their scorecards in accordance with the referee’s instructions.

(4) The scoring of a bout shall be based on four (4) factors, in the following order:

(a) Clean hits;

(b) Effective aggressiveness;

(5) In any bout fought to a decision, the outcome shall be determined by a majority of the scorers.

Example: Two (2) judges score a bout a draw; one (1) judge scores the bout in one (1) boxer’s favor. The outcome is a draw.

(6) In the event that a bout terminates by a knockout or technical knockout which, in the referee’s sole judgment, resulted from head blows, he or she shall instruct the judges to enter the designation “KOH” or “TKOH” (as appropriate) on their scorecards.

(7) At the conclusion of a bout, all scorecards shall be signed by the scorer and transmitted to a designated “chief judge”. After reviewing the scorecards for accuracy and correctness, the chief judge shall notify the ring announcer of the official decision. Following the announcement of the decision, the scorecards shall be delivered to the Directors.

(8) In order to afford an adequate view of the bout as well as sufficient isolation from other spectators, judges may be seated in elevated chairs positioned midway between the ring posts on different sides of the ring.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2; Tennessee Athletic Commission Act of 2016; and T.C.A. §§ 68-115-201 and 68-115-203.
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009. Amendments filed July 13, 2023; effective October 11, 2023.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.13 KNOCKDOWN AND KNOCKOUT

(1) A contestant shall be deemed “down” when:

(a) Any part of his or her body, except his or her feet, is on the ring floor;

(b) He or she is rising from a down position; or (c) He or she is hanging helplessly over the ropes; provided, however, that a boxer hanging over the ropes is not officially “down” until so pronounced by the referee.

(2) When a contestant is knocked down, the timekeeper shall immediately rise and announce the elapsed seconds; and the referee shall promptly order the opponent to retire to the farthest neutral corner. The referee shall then return to the fallen contestant and audibly announce the count as he or she motions with his or her right arm downward indicating the end of each second. Should the opponent fail to remain in the neutral corner farthest for the boxer who is down, the referee shall cease counting until he or she has returned to it, and then continue the count from the point at which it was interrupted.

(3) A contestant who is knocked down must take a count of eight (8) whether or not he or she has regained his or her feet before the count has been reached. If when the count of eight (8) is reached the contestant is on his or her feet, the referee shall wipe any accumulated resin from his or her gloves, and may examine him or her sufficiently to assure himself or herself that the contestant is physically fit and mentally alert enough to continue. If so assured, the referee shall, without loss of time, order the contestants to resume boxing.

(4) If the contestant taking the count is still down when the referee calls the count of ten (10), the referee shall wave both arms, indicating that the contestant has been knocked out. When a round other than a final round shall terminate while the referee is administering the count to a contestant who has been knocked down, the count shall be continued. The timekeeper shall not ring the bell until and unless such contestant rises before the count of ten (10) and the referee orders him or her to resume boxing. If the fallen contestant shall fail to rise before the count of ten (10), he or she shall be declared the loser by knockout in the round just concluded.

(5) Should a boxer slip, fall down, or be pushed down, he or she shall be ordered to his or her feet immediately. Failure to rise may subject him or her to disqualification.

(6) A contestant who has fallen through the ropes and out of the platform ring as a result of a legal blow during the contest may not be helped by anyone, and the referee shall start the count, which in this special case will be twenty (20) seconds. Should the contestant fail to reenter the ring before the count of twenty (20) seconds, the referee shall wave both arms to indicate that he or she has been knocked out and shall raise the hand of the opponent as the winner.

(7) When a boxer has been knocked out, none of his or her seconds shall touch him or her until the attending physician enters the ring and personally attends the fallen boxer, and issues such instructions as he or she deems appropriate to the boxer’s seconds.

(8) There is no standing eight (8) count.

(9) There is no three (3) knockdown rule.

(10) A boxer who has been knocked down cannot be saved by the bell in any round.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2; Tennessee Athletic Commission Act of 2016; and T.C.A. §§ 68-115-201 and 68-115-203.
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009. Amendments filed July 13, 2023; effective October 11, 2023.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.14 TECHNICAL KNOCKOUT

(1) The referee shall promptly terminate a bout and declare a “technical knockout” if:

(a) He or she is advised to do so by the ringside physician;

(b) In his or her opinion, the bout is too one-sided;

(c) In his or her opinion, a combatant is in such condition that continuation of the bout might subject him or her to serious injury;

(d) A combatant fails to answer the bell for a round; or (e) A combatant loses control of bodily functions and urinates, defecates, or regurgitates during the bout.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 68-115-201 and 68-115-404.
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009. Amendments filed December 5, 2024; effective March 5, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.15 NO CONTEST

(1) If the stoppage of a bout is attributable to any cause other than legal blows (including injuries resulting therefrom), disqualification, or retirement, such bout:

(a) Will be ruled a “no contest”, if the stoppage occurs before the end of the fourth (4 th ) round; or (b) Will be decided by the totals on the scorecards, if the stoppage occurs after the end of the fourth (4 th ) round.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2 and T.C.A. § 68-115-201.
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.16 STIMULANTS

(1) No substance other than plain water shall be administered to a contestant during the course of a bout. The discretional use of petroleum jelly around the eye is permitted; however, the use of petroleum jelly, grease, or any other substance on the arms, legs, or body of contestant is prohibited.

(2) The discretional use of coagulants, such as a solution of adrenalin (1/1000) approved by the ringside physician, is permitted between rounds to stop bleeding of minor cuts and lacerations sustained by a contestant. The use of “iron type” coagulants, such as Monsel’s solution, is absolutely prohibited, and shall be cause for immediate disqualification.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2 and T.C.A. §§ 68-115-201 and 68-115-405.
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.17 TIME LIMITATIONS

(1) No bout shall exceed twelve (12) rounds of not more than three (3) minutes each in length.

There shall be a rest period of one (1) minute between consecutive rounds.

(2) The number of days which must elapse before a boxer who has competed anywhere in a bout may participate in another bout shall be as follows:

Length of Bout Required Interval (in scheduled rounds) (in days)

(a) 4 or less 2 (b) 5–9 5 (c) 10–12 7 (3) A boxer who suffers a knockout (KO), technical knockout (TKO) or retires from a fight for any reason shall not be permitted to engage in any further competitive boxing or sparring for a period of at least thirty (30) days. If a boxer loses two (2) bouts by KO, TKO, or a combination thereof within a period of ninety (90) days, he or she shall not be permitted to engage in any further boxing or sparring for a period of at least one hundred eighty (180) days. This rule includes any KO or TKO suffered in an out-of-state bout. Both the boxer and the boxer’s manager shall be responsible for assuring compliance with this paragraph.

History

Authority: T.C.A. § 68-115-201.
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009. Amendments filed December 5, 2024; effective March 5, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.18 RESOLUTION OF DISPUTES

In the event a problem or dispute arises in connection with a bout held or scheduled to be held in this state, the parties shall make every effort to achieve a reasonable settlement consistent with the provisions of this chapter. If the parties fail to reach an agreement, and the Commission’s administrator or his or her designee determines that a resolution of the matter is reasonably necessary to protect the welfare of one or both of the boxers, then such matter shall be referred to the Commission’s administrator or his or her designee for decision.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2 and T.C.A. §§ 68-115-201 and 68-115-203.
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.19 CONTESTANTS OF OPPOSITE SEXES

Bouts between contestants of opposite sexes are prohibited.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2 and T.C.A. § 68-115-201.
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009. Amendments filed September 25, 2019; effective December 24, 2019.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.20 FOUL RELATED INJURIES

(1) If a boxer is injured by a foul (for which the referee does not disqualify his or her opponent), both boxers may be seated in their corners for a period not to exceed five (5) minutes. During such period:

(a) The boxers shall be neither attended nor talked to by their seconds; and (b) The ringside physician shall examine the fouled boxer and, in his or her discretion, the other boxer.

(2) Should the fouled boxer be unable to continue after the rest period, the bout shall be scored in accordance with Rule 0145-02-.15.

(3) A fighter who is hit with an accidental low blow must continue after a reasonable amount of time but no more than five (5) minutes, or he or she will lose the fight.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2; Tennessee Athletic Commission Act of 2016; and T.C.A. §§ 68-115-201 and 68-115-203.
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009. Amendments filed July 13, 2023; effective October 11, 2023.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.21 BOXER IDENTIFICATION CARD

(1) In addition to any other requirements contained in this chapter:

(a) Each professional boxer residing in this state shall register with the Commission and obtain a boxer identification card.

(b) Each professional boxer shall renew his or her identification card once every two (2) years.

(c) The fee for a new identification card or renewal of an existing identification card shall be twenty-five dollars ($25.00).

(d) Each professional boxer shall present his or her identification card to the appropriate regulatory authority not later than the time for the weigh-in for each professional boxing match they enter.

(2) A professional boxer who is a resident of a foreign country or a state (as defined by the “Professional Boxing Safety Act of 1996,” Public Law 104-272) in which professional boxing is not regulated may register and obtain a boxer identification card in this state as provided in paragraph one (1) of this rule.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2 and T.C.A. § 68-115-201.
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.22 FEDERAL STANDARDS

Each individual or entity licensed or required to be licensed under this chapter shall comply with the “Professional Boxing Safety Act of 1996” (Public Law 104-272), any amendments made thereto, and any federal regulations promulgated thereunder.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2 and T.C.A. §§ 68-115-201 and 68-115-501.
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009.

Chapter 0145-03 Kickboxing and Mixed Martial Arts

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-03-.01 APPLICABILITY

(1) The provisions of this chapter shall apply to all professional kickboxing and mixed martial art contests held or scheduled to be held in the state of Tennessee and shall take precedent over any other rules, including but not limited to rules of any sanctioning organization, that are in any way directly or indirectly in conflict with any provision set forth in this chapter, unless the Commission modifies or waives such provision.

(2) The Commission may modify or waive any provision hereunder:

(a) In cases of undue hardship, demonstrable impracticality, or necessity;

(b) For the purpose of allowing a bout to be sanctioned by a recognized association, council, or organization; or (c) To accept an alternative rule set, in whole or in part, for a professional kickboxing or mixed martial arts contest or event. Any alternative rule set must be approved by the Commission prior to the scheduled contest or event. The Commission may revoke the approval of the alternative rule set if the Commission later determines the alternative

rule set poses a risk to the health, safety, or welfare of the individuals participating in the contest or event.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 68-115-201 and 68-115-203.
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009. Amendments filed June 26, 2025; effective September 24, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-03-.02 RING

All kickboxing and mixed martial arts contests or events shall be conducted in rings as follows:

(1) For kickboxing contests or events, the ring or fighting area shall meet the following requirements:

(a) The ring shall be not less than seventeen feet (17’) square within the ropes. The ring floor shall extend beyond the ropes not less than eighteen inches (18”). Padding must extend beyond the ring ropes and over the edge of the platform. Such floor shall be padded with a one (1) inch layer of Ensolite (or the equivalent) placed over a one (1) inch base of building board or other suitable material. The padding shall be covered with canvas, duck, or similar material tightly stretched and laced securely in place under the apron.

(b) The ring platform shall not be more than four feet (4’) above the floor of the building, and shall be equipped with suitable steps for use by combatants. Ring posts shall be metal, not more than four inches (4”) in diameter, extending from the floor of the building to a height of fifty-eight inches (58”) above the ring floor, and shall be properly padded.

(c) Ring ropes shall be at least four (4) in number, not less than one inch (1”) in diameter; the lower rope eighteen inches (18”) above the ring floor, the second rope thirty inches (30”) above the ring floor, the third rope forty-two inches (42”) above the ring floor, and the fourth rope fifty-four inches (54”) above the ring floor. The lower rope shall have applied around it a padding of a thickness of not less than one-half inch (½”) and of a type and construction to be approved by the Commission.

(2) For all other types of mixed martial arts bouts, the ring or fighting area shall meet the requirements set forth in this section as follows:

(a) The ring or fighting area shall be no smaller than twenty feet (20’) by twenty feet (20’) and no larger than thirty-two feet (32’) by thirty-two (32’). A ring enclosed by ropes shall be square. The ring floor or floor of the fighting area enclosed by ropes shall extend at least twenty inches (20”) beyond the ropes. The ring floor or floor of the fighting area shall be padded with a one-inch (1”) layer of Ensolite (or the equivalent) placed over a one-inch (1”) base of building board or other suitable material. Padding shall extend beyond the ring or fighting area and over the edge of the platform. The ring or fighting area shall have a canvas covering or similar material, tightly stretched and laced to the ring platform. Materials made up of one hundred percent (100%) vinyl or one hundred percent (100%) plastic rubberized covering shall not be permitted. Blended materials may be accepted if approved by the Commission, the Executive Director, or the Executive Director’s designee prior to use at a contest. Blended materials include those of which the surface contains a combination of vinyl or similar synthetic materials. The Executive Director or the Executive Director’s designee shall make a determination of approval based upon whether or not the material creates an unreasonable risk of harm to any combatant that is not present with the use of standard canvas or duct type material. Such danger shall include, but is not limited to: slipping, falling, or tears that could create lacerations to the body. The Executive Director may publish a list of material blends that have previously been determined as acceptable by the Commission. There shall not be any obstruction or object, including but not limited to a triangular border, on any part of the ring floor.

(b) The ring platform shall not be more than four feet (4’) above the floor of the building. A ring enclosed by ropes shall have three (3) sets of suitable steps or ramps, one for use by each of the combatants and one for use by the officials. A ring enclosed by a fence shall have two (2) sets of suitable steps or ramps for use by the combatants and the officials. Ringside tables shall be no higher than ring platform level. Ring posts for a ring enclosed by ropes shall be metal, not less than three inches (3”) nor more than six inches (6”) in diameter, extending from the floor of the building to a maximum height of six inches (6”) above the highest horizontal rope above the ring floor. Ring posts for a ring enclosed by ropes shall be separated from the ring ropes by at least eighteen inches (18”). The posts for a ring enclosed by a fence shall extend from the floor to the top of the fighting area and shall be no less than sixty-six inches (66”) and no more than seventy-eight inches (78”) above the floor of the fighting area. All posts shall be properly padded in a manner approved by the Commission.

A fence made of such material as will not allow a combatant to fall out or break through it on to the floor or spectators, including but not limited to vinyl-coated chain link. However, the enclosure shall not obstruct or limit the supervision and

regulation of the bout by the officials or Commission representatives. All metal parts shall be covered and padded in a manner approved by the Commission and shall not be abrasive to the combatants; or 2. Four (4) or five (5) horizontal ropes not less than 1 inch (1”) in diameter and wrapped in soft material. In the event a four (4) rope ring is used, the spacing of the ropes shall be that specified in Rule 0145-02-.02(4). In the event a five (5) rope ring is used, the lowest rope shall be not less than five inches (5”) nor more than eight (8”) inches above the floor. The second rope shall be not less than eight inches (8”) nor more than twelve inches (12”) above the lowest rope. The top three (3) ropes shall be spaced equal distance apart and not less than twelve inches (12”) nor more than fourteen inches (14”) from each other. The lowest rope shall have a padding of a thickness of not less than one-half inch (½”) applied around it. The horizontal ropes shall be tied together by vertical ropes not less than one-fourth inch (¼”) in diameter. If a ring is less than twenty-four feet (24’) by twenty-four feet (24’), there shall be two (2) vertical ropes, spaced equal distance apart, on each side of the ring. If a ring is twenty-four feet (24’) by twenty-four (24’) or greater, there shall be three (3) vertical ropes, spaced equal distance apart, on each side of the ring. The lowest portion of each vertical rope, between the lowest horizontal rope and second rope, shall have a padding of a thickness of not less than one-fourth inch (¼”) applied around them.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2 and T.C.A. § 68-115-201.
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009. Amendments filed September 25, 2019; effective December 24, 2019.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-03-.03 REFEREES

(2) Prior to the start of a bout, the referee shall:

(a) Confirm that the contestants and their seconds possess current and valid licenses issued under the authority of this chapter;

(b) Confirm that a commission representative has inspected and initialed (to denote his or her approval of) the bandages of each contestant;

(d) Ensure that no foreign substances have been applied to the gloves, bandages, protective equipment, or body of the contestants, and that their equipment is in order; and (e) Ensure that all persons working the ring wear surgical gloves.

(3) The referee may:

(a) Stop a contest and consult with the ringside physician on the advisability of allowing it to continue;

(b) In a kickboxing event, administer a “standing eight (8) count” to a contestant in order to observe his or her condition; and (c) Warn, penalize or disqualify a contestant for violation of any foul enumerated in this

part.

(4) If a referee has reason to believe that a foul which he or she did not see may have been committed, he or she may poll the judges to determine whether such foul was committed.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2; Tennessee Athletic Commission Act of 2016; and T.C.A. §§ 68-115-201, 68-115-203, 68-115-204, and 68-115-404.
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009. Amendments filed July 13, 2023; effective October 11, 2023.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-03-.04 FOULS

(1) The referee shall have sole discretion over whether a foul has occurred. The referee may use available equipment, such as replay video, to determine whether a foul occurred, whether it was intentional or accidental, and/or the appropriate action as a result of the foul. The referee shall use the appropriate Association of Boxing Commission’s Unified Rules of Professional Kickboxing, Unified Rules of Professional Muay Thai, the Unified Rules of Mixed Martial Arts, and/or an alternative rule set approved by the Commission for the specific contest when determining if a combatant’s tactics constitute a foul.

(2) Any tactics that are determined to be fouls shall result in a warning and/or loss of points as determined by the referee.

(3) In addition to or in lieu of losing points, any combatant guilty of any fouls that are applicable to the combatant's sport may be disqualified. The combatant's purse may be withheld from payment, and the combatant may be suspended. Disposition of the purse and the penalty to be imposed upon the combatant shall be determined by action of the Commission.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 68-115-201 and 68-115-203.
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009. Amendments filed March 17, 2017; effective June 15, 2017. Amendments filed June 26, 2025; effective September 24, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-03-.05 RING ROPES

(1) Combatants shall not grab the ring ropes, or cage in a mixed martial arts event, at any time the two (2) combatants are in contact with each other during a bout in an attempt to stall action, trap an opponent, escape a technique, or otherwise gain advantage in the bout.

Combatants may momentarily grab the ring ropes or cage to brace or steady themselves, gain or to maintain their balance.

(2) If a combatant grabs or otherwise secures any ring rope with a hand, arm, foot or leg during a bout to avoid a submission hold, the referee shall stop the bout and deduct two (2) points from the combatant who grabbed the rope.

(3) If a combatant continually holds the ring ropes to rest, pull himself or herself from the action, avoid the bout’s action, or otherwise gain advantage in the bout, the referee shall deduct one (1) point from the resting combatant, and two (2) points for each additional time such conduct occurs.

(4) Excessive grabbing or other use of the ring ropes in violation of these rules may result, in the referee’s sole discretion, in a combatant’s disqualification and an award of the bout to such combatant’s opponent.

(5) The referee shall verbally instruct combatants to release the ring ropes or cage, when appropriate, prior to warning, deducting points or disqualifying a combatant for violating the applicable provisions of this act.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2 and T.C.A. § 68-115-201.
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-03-.06 INTENTIONAL FOULS

(1) In the case of an intentional foul, the referee may interrupt the bout for the purpose of allowing the injured combatant time to recover. A maximum of five (5) minutes of recovery time shall be permitted.

(2) When an intentional foul causes the bout to be interrupted for the purpose of allowing the injured combatant time to recover, the referee shall penalize the offending combatant guilty of the foul two (2) points.

(3) If the injured combatant is thereafter unable to continue, the offending combatant shall be disqualified. The offending combatant’s purse may also be withheld, and the offending combatant may be subject to suspension or revocation.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2 and T.C.A. § 68-115-201.
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-03-.07 UNINTENTIONAL FOULS

(1) When a bout is interrupted due to an injury caused by an unintentional foul, the referee, in consultation with the ringside physician, shall determine whether the combatant who has been fouled can continue or not. If the referee sees, or if after consultation with the judges, the referee determines that a combatant is unintentionally fouled and that the combatant’s chance of winning has not been seriously jeopardized as a result of a foul, the referee may order the bout continued after a reasonable interval, not to exceed five (5) minutes.

(2) If the referee or the ringside physician determines that the bout may not continue because of an injury suffered as the result of an unintentional foul or because of an injury inflicted by an unintentional foul which later becomes aggravated by fair blows, the bout shall be declared a draw, if according to the score cards, the bout was determined to be a draw at the time the foul occurred. If, according to the score cards, the combatant committing the foul was winning prior to the foul, the bout shall be declared a technical draw. If, according to the score cards, the combatant being fouled was winning prior to the foul, then that combatant shall be declared the winner.

(3) When an unintentional foul causes the bout to be interrupted for the purpose of allowing the injured combatant time to recover, the referee shall penalize the combatant guilty of the foul one (1) or more points.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2 and T.C.A. § 68-115-201.
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-03-.08 SUSPECTED FOULS

If an injury occurs due to a suspected foul that the referee was unable to see, the referee may, in his sole discretion, confer with the judges to determine where the foul may be placed. The referee may consider any, all or none of the opinions expressed in making his determination. The referee may, in his sole discretion, ask for a replay, if television equipment is available, of the technique in question before rendering his decision.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2 and T.C.A. § 68-115-201.
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-03-.09 REPEALED

History

Authority: T.C.A. § 68-115-201.
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009. Repeal filed December 5, 2024; effective March 5, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-03-.10 SCORING

(1) During mixed martial arts contests, referees and judges shall use the Association of Boxing Commissions’ (ABC) MMA Judging Criteria/Scoring guidelines when scoring the contests.

(2) During kickboxing contests, referees and judges shall score all contests and determine the winner through the use of the ten-point must system. In this system, the winner of each round receives ten (10) points and the opponent a proportionately less number. If the round is even, each combatant receives ten (10) points. No fraction of points shall be given.

(3) At the termination of the professional contest or amateur event, or the termination of each round, as determined by the Commission’s representative present at the contest or event, the cards of the judges shall be picked up by the referee and delivered to the Commission’s representative assigned to check the totals. The majority opinion shall be conclusive and if there is no majority then the decision shall be a draw. When the Commission’s representative has completed verifying the score, the ring announcer shall be informed of the decision and shall announce the decision.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2 and T.C.A. § 68-115-201.
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009. Amendments filed March 17, 2017; effective June 15, 2017.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-03-.11 RESULTS OF CONTESTS

A contest of mixed martial arts may end under the following results:

(1) Submission by:

(a) Physical tap out: When a contestant physically uses their body to indicate that he or she no longer wishes to continue;

(b) Verbal tap out: When a contestant verbally announces or voluntarily/involuntarily screams in pain or distress to the referee that they do not wish to continue; or (c) Technical Submission: When a legal submission act results in unconsciousness or broken/dislocated bone(s)/joint(s).

(2) Technical knockout (TKO):

(a) Referee Stoppage:

Strikes;
Laceration;
Corner Stoppage; or 4. Did Not Answer the Bell.

(b) TKO due to Medical Stoppage:

Laceration;
Doctor Stoppage; or 3. Loss of Control of Bodily Function.

(3) Knockout (KO) by:

(a) Referee Stoppage: the referee stops the contest because the combatant cannot intelligently defend himself or herself:

Due to strikes.

(4) Decision via the scorecards, including:

(a) Unanimous decision: When all three (3) judges score the bout for the same contestant;

(b) Split decision: When two (2) judges score the bout for one (1) contestant and one (1) judge scores for the opponent;

(c) Majority decision: When two (2) judges score the bout for the same contestant and one (1) judge scores a draw or (d) Draw, including:

Unanimous draw: When all three (3) judges score the bout a draw;
Majority draw: When two (2) judges score the bout a draw; or 3. Split draw: When all three (3) judges score differently and the score total results in a draw.

(5) Technical decision: When a bout is prematurely stopped due to injury from an accidental foul and a contestant is leading on the score cards.

(6) Technical draw: When an injury is sustained during competition as a result of an intentional foul and the bout is allowed to continue, then later the injury requires stoppage from either a legal or illegal strike to the affected area, if the injured contestant is even or behind on the score cards at the time of stoppage, the decision is a technical draw.

(7) Disqualification: When an injury sustained during competition as a result of an intentional foul is severe enough to terminate the contest, multiple fouls have been assessed, and/or there is flagrant disregard for the rules and/or referee’s commands.

(8) Forfeit.

(9) No contest: When a contestant is prematurely stopped due to accidental injury and no decision can be made via the score cards.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2; Tennessee Athletic Commission Act of 2016; and T.C.A. §§ 68-115-201 and 68-115-203.
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009. Amendments filed July 13, 2023; effective October 11, 2023.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-03-.12 WEIGHT CLASSIFICATIONS

(1) Allowances within Division: there are no allowance restrictions if both combatants weigh-in within the same contracted division/weight class.

(2) Weight Miss Catch Weight: If a combatant misses the contracted weight and the two (2) combatants are in different weight classes, the heavier combatant shall not exceed five (5)

lbs. of the lower weighing combatant.

(3) Contracted Catch Weight(s): there is no weight spread allowance between contracted catch weight combatants, so long as both combatants are below the contracted weight. The Commission may deny any catch weight fight if the weight differential is a large enough disparity to cause a real or perceived threat to the safety of either of the combatants.

(4) The following weight classes and weights will be used for all contests under this chapter:

(a) Atomweight Up to and including 105 lbs.

(b) Strawweight 105.1 - 115 lbs.

(d) Bantamweight 125.1 lbs. - 135 lbs.

(e) Featherweight 135.1 lbs. - 145 lbs.

(f) Lightweight 145.1 lbs. - 155 lbs.

(g) Super Lightweight 155.1 lbs. - 165 lbs.

(h) Welterweight 165.1 lbs. - 170 lbs.

(i) Super Welterweight 170.1 lbs. - 175 lbs.

(j) Middleweight 175.1 lbs. - 185 lbs.

(k) Super Middleweight 185.1 lbs. - 195 lbs.

(l) Light Heavyweight 195.1 lbs. - 205 lbs.

(m) Cruiserweight 205.1 lbs. - 225 lbs.

(n) Heavyweight 225.1 lbs. - 265 lbs.

(o) Super Heavyweight Over 265.1 lbs.

(5) A promoter may establish its own weight requirements for championship or title fights.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 68-115-201 and 68-115-203.
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009. Amendments filed May 8, 2019; effective August 6, 2019. Amendments filed July 13, 2023; effective October 11, 2023. Amendments filed December 5, 2024; effective March 5, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-03-.13 TIME LIMITATIONS

(1) Non-title kickboxing bouts shall not exceed ten (10) rounds, each round not to exceed three (3) minutes, with a rest period of not less than one (1) minute nor more than two (2) minutes, as specified by the sanctioning body. Except with the approval of the Commission, title bouts shall not exceed the maximum length or number of rounds specified in this subsection and in no event shall the rest period between rounds be less than one (1) minute.

(2) Non-title mixed martial arts bouts shall not exceed five (5) rounds, each round not to exceed five (5) minutes, with a rest period of not less than one (1) minute nor more than two (2) minutes, as specified by the sanctioning body. Except with the approval of the Commission, title bouts shall not exceed the maximum length or number of rounds specified in this subsection and in no event shall the rest period between rounds be less than one (1) minute.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2 and T.C.A. § 68-115-201.
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-03-.14 APPAREL

(1) The ring apparel for each combatant on a program shall include two (2) pairs of trunks or permissible apparel and a custom-made individually fitted mouthpiece or any other apparel approved by the Commission. Commission staff shall not approve ring costumes that are so similar as to possibly cause confusion as to the identity of the contenders.

(2) A combatant who is participating in a kickboxing contest or amateur event may, at the combatant’s option, use padded footgear and shin protectors. Shoes shall not be worn either in mixed martial arts or kickboxing professional contests.

(3) In addition to the items described in paragraph (1), the apparel for each male combatant shall include a foul-proof groin protector, and shall be worn during all professional contests and amateur events, (4) In addition to the items described in paragraph (1), each female combatant shall wear apparel that covers the combatant’s chest. Female combatants shall wear a short sleeved (above the elbow) or sleeveless form fitting rash guard and/or sports bra(s). No loose-fitting tops and/or breast protectors shall be allowed.

(5) Each of a combatant’s hands may be wrapped with soft gauze bandages not more than two inches (2”) in width and fifteen (15) yards in length, held in place by not more than ten feet (10’) of surgeon’s tape not more than one and a quarter inch (1 1/4”) in width. Gauze and binding tape may not exceed the wrist of a competitor’s gloves. Tape may be placed through the fingers, but may not cover the knuckles. A single layer of elastic or flex-type tape is allowed to be applied over the completed wrap. Athletic Commission officials must approve hand taping materials and style. A combatant may use soft neoprene type sleeves to cover the knee and/or ankle joints. Sleeves may not have padding, hook-and-loop fasteners, plastic, metal, ties, straps, or any other material considered unsafe or which may create an unfair advantage. Unless a specific exemption is requested and granted by Athletic Commission officials, no other tape, gauze, or other materials may be used by a combatant.

(6) Combatants’ fingernails and toenails shall be cut and trimmed.

(7) Combatants shall wear a mouthpiece at all times while the bout is in progress.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2; Tennessee Athletic Commission Act of 2016; and T.C.A. §§ 68-115-201 and 68-115-203.
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; eff ective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009. Amendments filed May 8, 2019; effective August 6, 2019. Amendments filed July 13, 2023; effective October 11, 2023.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-03-.15 GLOVES

(1) Combatants in kickboxing contests, in all weights up to and including heavyweight class, shall wear no less than eight (8) ounce gloves. In heavier classes, fighters shall wear no less than ten (10) ounce gloves. When two (2) contestants differ in weight classes, the contestants shall wear the gloves required for the higher weight classification.

(2) A combatant in a martial arts contest shall wear gloves that have no padding in the palm or fingertip area and that are appropriate in weight for the combatant’s hand size.

(3) All gloves must be approved by the Commission.

(4) No gloves shall be required for those martial arts disciplines that prohibit striking or punching.

(5) All gloves shall have padding over the knuckles.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2 and T.C.A. § 68-115-201.
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009. Amendments filed March 17, 2017; effective June 15, 2017.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-03-.16 TIMEKEEPERS

A timekeeper shall:

(1) Keep accurate time of all bouts;

(2) Begin the start of the clock for each round, as initiated by the referee, including overtime rounds;

(3) Give three (3) slaps to the ring mat or three (3) pounds on the table to indicate ten (10) seconds remaining in the round;

(4) Blow a whistle to indicate to the referee that there are ten (10) seconds left in the round break;

(5) Start and stop the bout clock for time stoppages as called by the referee; and (6) Signal the end of each round by the use of a bell, buzzer, or other available loud signal.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2 and T.C.A. § 68-115-201.
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-03-.17 SCOREKEEPERS

A scorekeeper shall record and tabulate the scores and point deductions from all of the judges. All actual scores shall be placed on the master score sheet as they are indicated by the judges’ scorecards. In the event there is a knockout or the referee stops the bout for any reason, the scorekeeper shall ascertain the exact time from the timekeeper. This will be recorded on the area marked on the score sheet.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2 and T.C.A. § 68-115-201.
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-03-.18 RING ANNOUNCERS

(1) The ring announcers shall fully represent the contest or event to the public in an official and professional manner.

(2) If the ring announcer uses any profanity over the event public address system, the announcer could be subject to a civil penalty up to the amount of five hundred dollars ($500.00) by the Commission and banned from the contest or event.

(3) The ring announcer shall read all the bout results.

(4) There shall be no talking by the ring announcer over the microphone or anyone over a public address system during a bout.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2 and T.C.A. § 68-115-201.
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-03-.19 MUSIC

(1) There shall be no music played during a bout.

(2) Combatant entree music or event music with profane or abusive lyrics and or foul language shall be prohibited.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2 and T.C.A. § 68-115-201.
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-03-.20 MANAGERS AND SECONDS

(1) All combatants shall be allowed a maximum of three (3) managers and seconds at ringside while the bout is in progress.

(2) Five (5) managers and seconds shall be allowed for title bouts of national level or higher.

(3) All managers and seconds shall stay in their combatant’s corner while the bout is in progress.

(4) If a combatant’s manager or second leaves his corner area and goes directly ringside or cage side to an area outside their corner area where the combatants are engaged in combat, to coach their combatant, the referee shall stop the bout and make one (1) of the following determinations:

(a) Warn the coaching corner to stay in their respective corner;

(b) Deduct one (1) point from the combatant whose manager or second left their corner;

(c) End the round, awarding the entire round to the opposing combatant; or (d) End the bout, awarding the entire bout to the opposing combatant.

(5) During the round breaks, only one (1) manager or second shall be allowed in the ring, while the other two (2) shall stand outside the ring ropes on the outside edge of the ring or on the floor. If the bout takes place in a cage, one (1) manager and one (1) second, or two (2) seconds, are allowed on the cage area designated for such coaches to attend to that coach’s combatant. In the event of a cut, an additional manager or second shall be allowed in the ring or cage.

(6) Managers or seconds shall obey the referee at all times during the bout.

(7) Managers or seconds shall conduct themselves with appropriate and proper sportsmanship in all ways connected with the bout.

(8) Managers or seconds may spray water and apply ice to a combatant between rounds. The managers or managers or seconds are responsible to dry the corner area before the next round commences.

(9) Managers or seconds may discretionally use petroleum jelly on the face of the contestant.

(10) The managers and seconds may use only those substances approved by the Commission to stop hemorrhaging.

(11) Violation of the rules by managers or seconds may result in warnings, point deductions, and/or disqualification of that manager’s or second’s combatant.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2 and T.C.A. § 68-115-201.
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009.

Chapter 0145-04 Disciplinary Actions

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-04-.01 CIVIL PENALTIES

(1) The Commission may, in a lawful proceeding with respect to any person licensed or required to be licensed, in addition to or in lieu of any other lawful disciplinary action, assess a civil penalty for a violation of a statute, rule or order, enforceable by the Commission, in accordance with the following schedule:

Violation Penalty T.C.A. §68-115-204 $0 – 250,000 T.C.A. §68-115-209(a)(1) $0 – 250,000 (2) $0 – 250,000 (3) $0 – 250,000 (4) $0 – 250,000 (5) $0 – 250,000 (6) $0 – 250,000 (7) $0 – 250,000 (8) $0 – 250,000 (10) $0 – 250,000 (2) Each day of continued violation shall constitute a separate violation.

(3) In assessing civil penalties, the following factors may be considered by the Commission:

(a) whether the amount imposed will be a substantial economic deterrent to the violator;

(b) the circumstances leading to the violation;

(d) the economic benefits gained by the violator as a result of non-compliance; and (e) the interest of the public.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2 and T.C.A. §§68-115-201 and 68-115-216 [effective July 1, 2008].
Administrative History: Emergency rules 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009. -- 1 of 1 --

Chapter 0145-05 Amateur Events

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-05-.01 APPLICABILITY

(1) The provisions of this chapter shall apply to all amateur unarmed combat events held or scheduled to be held in the state of Tennessee except:

(a) Those events held by schools, colleges and universities having membership in either the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association or the National Collegiate Athletic Association wherein the participants are bona fide students in the school, college, or university;

(b) Any event conducted solely for the exhibition of student skills related to a school; or (c) Any event in which the rules allow only semi-contact and in which no knockouts are allowed.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2 and T.C.A. §§ 55-17-107, 55-17-114, 55-17-402, 68-115-201, 68-115-301, and 68-115-302 [effective July 1, 2008].
Administrative History: Emergency chapters 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009. Amendments filed May 8, 2019; effective August 6, 2019.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-05-.02 AMATEUR SANCTIONING ORGANIZATIONS

(1) Unless exempted pursuant to Rule 0145-05-.01, an amateur combatant shall not participate in any unarmed combat event or exhibition unless the event or exhibition is sanctioned by an amateur sanctioning organization recognized and approved by the Commission and the participant is registered with such sanctioning organization. The Commission will only approve and recognize those amateur sanctioning organizations that are able to establish and enforce rules regarding safety and rules regarding amateur conduct during unarmed combat as strict as, or stricter, than those established by the Commission for professional unarmed combat contests.

(2) Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph (1), a sanctioned event that is point based, does not allow for knockouts, or in which the use of padded headgear is mandatory shall not be required to comply with the provisions of T.C.A. § 68-115-404(f) regarding ambulatory and medical officials so long as a defibrillator and person(s) qualified to use the defibrillator are present at all times. The executive director may, within seven (7) days of the event, require any promoter claiming this exemption to provide information sufficient to the executive director to determine that the promoter is eligible for the exemption as set out in this paragraph (2).

(3) The executive director may, in his or her discretion, upon request of a promoter of an event, exempt an event from any rule by taking into account:

(a) Whether such exemption would create an unreasonable risk to the health, safety, and welfare of any amateur;

(b) Whether the rule creates a duplicative requirement satisfied by a promoter or sanctioning organization in another verifiable manner including, but not limited to, that the promoter or sanctioning organizer carries medical insurance; and (c) Whether such exemption would alleviate a promoter from an unnecessary expense without increasing a risk of harm to any amateur.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2 and T.C.A. §§ 68-115-201 and 68-115-213 [effective July 1, 2008].
Administrative History: Emergency chapters 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009. Amendments filed May 8, 2019; effective August 6, 2019.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-05-.03 PERMITS FOR AMATEUR EVENTS

(1) A promoter of an amateur event of unarmed combat shall obtain a permit from the Commission not less than thirty (30) days prior to the event.

(2) Applications for permits shall be submitted on forms prescribed by the Commission. The applicant shall completely and truthfully respond to all questions or requests for information propounded on, or in connection with, the application. Provided that the information is complete, the application shall be processed by the Commission within five (5) business days of receipt thereof.

(3) The fee for the permit shall be fifty dollars ($50.00); however, if the applicant establishes for the Commission that it is a non-profit organization, as that term is defined within the United States revenue code, the fee shall be waived.

History

Authority: Chapter 1149 of the Public Acts of 2008, § 2 and T.C.A. §§ 68-115-201 and 68-115-213 [effective July 1, 2008].
Administrative History: Emergency chapters 0145-01 through 0145-05 filed November 7, 2008; effective though April 21, 2009. Emergency rule filed April 20, 2009; effective through October 2, 2009. New rule filed March 17, 2009; effective May 31, 2009.

Chapter 0145-06 Bare-Knuckle Boxing

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-06-.01 APPLICABILITY

(1) The provisions of this chapter shall apply to all bare-knuckle boxing contests held or scheduled to be held in the State of Tennessee and shall take precedent over any other rules, including but not limited to any rules of any sanctioning organization, that are in any way directly or indirectly in conflict with any other provision set forth in this chapter, unless the Commission modifies or waives such provision. The Commission may modify or waive any provision in cases of undue hardship, demonstrable impracticability, or necessity.

(2) These rules shall be supplemental to those in Chapter 0145-02 to the extent that those rules do not conflict with any provision in this chapter. Any requirements, provisions, obligations, responsibilities, or duties in Chapter 0145-02 shall apply to bare-knuckle boxing bouts unless these rules state otherwise.

(3) Any combatant, referee, promoter, second, announcer, matchmaker, judge, timekeeper, manager, or ringside physician who participates in a bare-knuckle boxing bout must comply with the licensing requirements of the Commission in Chapter 0145-01 of these rules.

(4) Any combatant, referee, promoter, second, announcer, matchmaker, judge, timekeeper, manager, or ringside physician who participates in a bare-knuckle boxing bout must comply with all licensing applications, fees, and other requirements related to licensing for professional boxing.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 68-115-201, 68-115-203, and 68-115-204.
Administrative History: New rules filed December 5, 2024; effective March 5, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-06-.02 FIGHTING AREA

(1) Bare-knuckle fighting bouts shall only occur in a ring or cage approved by the Commission and that promotes combatant, ring official, and spectator safety. The cage or ring must be approved prior to the bout and comply with the provisions of Rule 0145-02-.02 or Rule 0145- 03-.02.

(2) A bell or other device capable of producing a tone easily audible to the combatants and ring officials shall be fastened securely at or below the floor level of the fighting area.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 68-115-201 and 68-115-203.
Administrative History: New rules filed December 5, 2024; effective March 5, 2025. March, 2025 2

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-06-.03 HAND WRAPS

(1) Hand wraps shall include the wrist and are restricted to twelve (12) yards of soft gauze bandage per hand and not more than two (2) inches in width, held in place by not more than ten (10) yards of surgical tape, no more than one (1) inch (25.4 mm) width. The surgical tape and/or gauze shall not be applied within one (1) inch of the knuckles.

(2) No tape or gauze will extend within one (1) inch of a combatant’s knuckles when a clenched fist is made.

(3) No tape or gauze is allowed between or on a combatant’s fingers, with the exception of the thumb. The thumb of a combatant may include a single wrap of tape when the wrist is being wrapped.

(4) Wrapping of the wrist shall not extend more than three (3) inches past the wrist juncture.

(5) No other gloves, wrappings, taping, or other items shall be applied to the hands of a combatant.

History

Authority: T.C.A. § 68-115-201.
Administrative History: New rules filed December 5, 2024; effective March 5, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-06-.04 PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT AND APPAREL

(1) All combatants must wear such protective gear or equipment as deemed necessary by the Commission.

(2) Each combatant shall wear appropriate shorts and wrestling or boxing shoes. Shoes shall be of soft material, and shall not be fitted with spikes, cleats, hard soles, or hard heels.

(3) Each combatant shall wear a custom-made, individually fabricated mouthpiece. A round cannot begin without each combatant wearing a mouthpiece. If the mouthpiece is dislodged during the round, the referee will call “time” when there is a lull in the bout and have the mouthpiece replaced at the first opportune moment without interfering with the immediate action. The referee may deduct points if he or she feels the mouthpiece is being purposefully spit out.

(4) Throughout the bout, male combatants must be equipped with and use equipment which will preclude any claim of incapacity due to low blows.

(5) Female combatants shall wear attire to prevent the showing of cleavage as much as possible and are approved to wear an above the elbow or sleeveless form-fitting rash guard and/or sports bra(s). No loose-fitting tops and/or breast protectors shall be allowed.

(6) When deemed necessary by the referee, a combatant shall have his or her hair secured in a manner that does not interfere with the vision and safety of either combatant. No object can be worn to secure the combatant’s hair which may cause injury to either combatant.

Inspectors shall ensure that the fingernails are clipped at a length so as not to cause injury to the combatant’s opponent.

(7) The wearing of jewelry is strictly prohibited during all contests.

(8) A combatant may wear soft neoprene-type sleeves to cover only the knee(s) or elbow(s).

Approved sleeves may not have padding, Velcro, plastic, metal, ties, or any other material considered unsafe or that may create an unfair advantage. There will be no other taping, March, 2025 3 covering, or protective gear of any kind on the upper body of a combatant, notwithstanding the wrapping and taping for a combatant’s hands allowed by this chapter.

(9) Each referee and all seconds (including a manager acting as a second) shall be equipped with surgical gloves which shall be worn throughout the bout.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 68-115-102, 68-115-201, and 68-115-203.
Administrative History: New rules filed December 5, 2024; effective March 5, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-06-.05 PETROLEUM JELLY

Combatants shall only be permitted to have petroleum jelly or another similar substance applied to his or her face. Combatants shall not be permitted to have excessive petroleum jelly or another similar substance on any part of their body, as determined by the sole discretion of the referee. Petroleum jelly or another similar substance shall be applied to the face prior to the bout by a licensed second acting as the designated cut-man or cornerman. The reapplication of petroleum jelly or another similar substance to the face may be allowed between rounds and shall only be applied by the licensed second acting as the designated cut-man or cornerman.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 68-115-102 and 68-115-201.
Administrative History: New rules filed December 5, 2024; effective March 5, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-06-.06 WEIGHT CLASSIFICATIONS

(1) The following shall constitute the applicable weight classes for all contests in bare-knuckle boxing bouts. The allowable weight differential (in pounds) between combatants within major classifications shall be as permitted by the Commission at its discretion:

(a) Strawweight Through 107.9 lbs.

(b) Flyweight 108 lbs. – 116.9 lbs.

(d) Featherweight 126 lbs. – 135.9 lbs.

(e) Lightweight 136 lbs. – 145.9 lbs.

(f) Welterweight 146 lbs. – 155.9 lbs.

(g) Middleweight 156 lbs. – 165.9 lbs.

(h) Super Middleweight 166 lbs. – 175.9 lbs.

(i) Light Heavyweight 176 lbs. – 185.9 lbs.

(j) Middle Heavyweight 186 lbs. – 205.9 lbs.

(k) Cruiserweight 206 lbs. – 225.9 lbs.

(l) Heavyweight 226 lbs. – 265.9 lbs.

(m) Super Heavyweight 266 lbs. and above.

(2) A promoter may establish its own weight requirements for championship or title fights.

March, 2025 4

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 68-115-201 and 68-115-203.
Administrative History: New rules filed December 5, 2024; effective March 5, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-06-.07 ROUNDS

(1) Bare-knuckle fighting bouts shall not extend past a total of six (6) rounds and a total of eighteen (18) minutes of fighting with one (1) minute rest period between rounds. The oneminute rest period does not count as part of the eighteen (18) minutes of fighting.

(2) Promoters are authorized to mix bout cards and schedule bouts for two (2) or three (3) minute rounds. The Commission will consider the following information when approving bouts:

(a) Combatants record, including the record in other combative sports;

(b) Combative sports experience by the combatants;

(d) Physical condition of the combatants; and (e) Any other relevant information before the Commission.

(3) Rounds may be approved for two (2) or three (3) minutes in length. Bouts with two (2) minute rounds shall not exceed six (6) rounds for a total of twelve (12) minutes of fighting.

(4) Bare-knuckle fighting combatants who are making a professional debut in a bare-knuckle bout shall be restricted to competing in a bout with no more than four (4) rounds that are two (2) minutes per round, unless the combatant has previous professional experience in boxing, mixed martial arts, or other combat sports.

(5) Bare-knuckle fighting combatants shall not make a professional debut in bare-knuckle fighting bouts without sufficient prior experience in combative sports reviewed by the Commission.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 68-115-201 and 68-115-203.
Administrative History: New rules filed December 5, 2024; effective March 5, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-06-.08 SECONDS

Bare-knuckle fighting bouts shall follow the requirements in Chapter 0145-02 as it relates to the number and licensing of seconds and managers.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 68-115-201, 68-115-203, and 68-115-204.
Administrative History: New rules filed December 5, 2024; effective March 5, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-06-.09 AMATEUR EVENTS

Amateur and exhibition bare-knuckle boxing bouts are prohibited in the State of Tennessee. Combatants who participate in bare-knuckle boxing bouts must be licensed by the Commission as professional bareknuckle boxing fighters.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 68-115-201, 68-115-203, and 68-115-204.
Administrative History: New rules filed December 5, 2024; effective March 5, 2025. March, 2025 5

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-06-.10 DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE REFEREE

(1) Each bout shall be officiated by a referee who is licensed in accordance with Rule 0145-01- .03.

(2) The referee in a bare-knuckle bout shall have the same duties, responsibilities, and authority as a referee under Chapter 0145-02.

(3) In addition to the fouls listed in Rule 0145-02-.10, a referee may consider the following acts as fouls in a bare-knuckle bout:

(a) Putting a finger into any orifice of the opposing combatant or into any cut or laceration on the opposing combatant, including fish hooking;

(b) Pulling the opposing combatant’s hair;

(d) Striking an opposing combatant who is helpless as the result of blows but is supported by the ropes and does not fall;

(e) Butting the opposing combatant with the head, shoulder, knee, or elbow;

(f) Hitting the opposing combatant with the elbow or forearm;

(g) Hitting the opposing combatant on the back of the head or neck;

(h) Gouging the opposing combatant’s eye in any manner;

(i) Using the ropes or cage to gain an advantage over the opposing combatant;

(j) Pushing the opposing combatant around the fighting area or into the ropes/cage;

(k) Timidity, excessive clenching, including intentionally spitting out the mouthpiece, running from an opposing combatant, or other similar behavior;

(l) Biting the opposing combatant;

(m) Headlocks;

(n) Throat punches or strikes directly toward the throat of an opposing combatant;

(o) Fingers outstretched toward the opposing combatant’s face or eyes;

(p) Throws or takedowns;

(q) Engaging in any other action not described in this subsection that is deemed an intentional foul by the referee on the basis that the action poses a danger to the safety of either fighter, impedes fair and competitive play, or is unsportsmanlike;

(r) Spinning back fists; and (s) Hammer-fists.

(4) The referee is authorized to use any procedures to determine if a foul occurred, penalize a combatant, and/or to end the bout pursuant to Chapter 0145-02.

March, 2025 6

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 68-115-102, 68-115-201, and 68-115-501.
Administrative History: New rules filed December 5, 2024; effective March 5, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-06-.11 SCORING

Scoring in bare-knuckle bouts shall follow the requirements of professional boxing contests listed in Rule

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-06-.12 KNOCKOUTS, KNOCKDOWNS, AND DECISIONS

The referee shall have the sole authority to determine when a knockdown has occurred. The procedures for determining knockdowns, knockouts, technical knockouts, disqualification, technical decisions, draws, no contest, or any other decision to end a bout for a bare-knuckle contest shall be consistent with the rules of Chapter 0145-02.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 68-115-102 and 68-115-201.
Administrative History: New rules filed December 5, 2024; effective March 5, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-06-.13 FOULS AND FOUL-RELATED INJURIES

The referee shall have the sole authority to determine when a foul has occurred. A referee may consider acts listed in this chapter or Chapter 0145-02 as fouls. The referee may follow the procedures listed in

Chapter 0145-02 regarding the use of instant replay and the determination of how fouls are handled regarding point deductions, ending a bout, or any other determination related to unintentional or intentional fouls.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 68-115-102 and 68-115-201.
Administrative History: New rules filed December 5, 2024; effective March 5, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-06-.14 BARE-KNUCKLE BOXING PHYSICIANS

In addition to any considerations for approving ringside physicians for professional boxing contests, a ringside physician for a bare-knuckle boxing bouts shall have experience with laceration repair.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 68-115-201, 68-115-203, and 68-115-204.
Administrative History: New rules filed December 5, 2024; effective March 5, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.12 .

History

Authority: T.C.A. § 68-115-201.
Administrative History: New rules filed December 5, 2024; effective March 5, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145 — Athletic Commission

Chapter 0145-01 General Provisions

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-01-.01 APPLICABILITY

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-01-.02 DEFINITIONS

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-01-.03 LICENSING

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-01-.04 PERMITS FOR PROFESSIONAL CONTESTS

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-01-.05 RESPONSIBILITIES OF PROMOTERS

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-01-.06 WEIGH-IN

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-01-.07 RING OFFICIALS GENERALLY

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-01-.08 COMBATANTS GENERALLY

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-01-.09 TREATMENT OR HOSPITALIZATION

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-01-.10 CONTRACTS FOR COMBATANTS

Chapter 0145-02 Professional Boxing

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.01 APPLICABILITY

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.02 RING

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.03 BELL

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.04 BANDAGES

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.05 GLOVES

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.06 PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.07 SHOES

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.08 WEIGHT CLASSIFICATIONS

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.09 SECONDS

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.10 REFEREES

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.11 TIMEKEEPER

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.12 SCORING

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.13 KNOCKDOWN AND KNOCKOUT

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.14 TECHNICAL KNOCKOUT

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.15 NO CONTEST

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.16 STIMULANTS

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.17 TIME LIMITATIONS

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.18 RESOLUTION OF DISPUTES

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.19 CONTESTANTS OF OPPOSITE SEXES

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.20 FOUL RELATED INJURIES

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.21 BOXER IDENTIFICATION CARD

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.22 FEDERAL STANDARDS

Chapter 0145-03 Kickboxing and Mixed Martial Arts

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-03-.01 APPLICABILITY

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-03-.02 RING

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-03-.03 REFEREES

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-03-.04 FOULS

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-03-.05 RING ROPES

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-03-.06 INTENTIONAL FOULS

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-03-.07 UNINTENTIONAL FOULS

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-03-.08 SUSPECTED FOULS

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-03-.09 REPEALED

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-03-.10 SCORING

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-03-.11 RESULTS OF CONTESTS

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-03-.12 WEIGHT CLASSIFICATIONS

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-03-.13 TIME LIMITATIONS

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-03-.14 APPAREL

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-03-.15 GLOVES

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-03-.16 TIMEKEEPERS

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-03-.17 SCOREKEEPERS

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-03-.18 RING ANNOUNCERS

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-03-.19 MUSIC

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-03-.20 MANAGERS AND SECONDS

Chapter 0145-04 Disciplinary Actions

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-04-.01 CIVIL PENALTIES

Chapter 0145-05 Amateur Events

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-05-.01 APPLICABILITY

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-05-.02 AMATEUR SANCTIONING ORGANIZATIONS

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-05-.03 PERMITS FOR AMATEUR EVENTS

Chapter 0145-06 Bare-Knuckle Boxing

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-06-.01 APPLICABILITY

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-06-.02 FIGHTING AREA

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-06-.03 HAND WRAPS

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-06-.04 PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT AND APPAREL

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-06-.05 PETROLEUM JELLY

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-06-.06 WEIGHT CLASSIFICATIONS

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-06-.07 ROUNDS

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-06-.08 SECONDS

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-06-.09 AMATEUR EVENTS

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-06-.10 DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE REFEREE

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-06-.11 SCORING

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-06-.12 KNOCKOUTS, KNOCKDOWNS, AND DECISIONS

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-06-.13 FOULS AND FOUL-RELATED INJURIES

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-06-.14 BARE-KNUCKLE BOXING PHYSICIANS

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0145-02-.12 .

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