Dirty Fighting
If you have made it this far then you should know that anywhere rules are in place, best believe there will be someone there to bend or better still break them.
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Boxing is no different, so when the ref tells you to "protect yourself at all times" they mean in it.
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A simple google serach can point you towards many instances where dirty tricks have been used for that competitive edge. These tactics are normally punished leading to penalties, point deductions, disqualifications and even bans, however the damage is done already.
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Below talks about a few strategies..
Weapons of Choice
Headbutting
Intentionally using the head to strike an opponent, often during clinches or close-range fighting. This can cause cuts and significant damage.
Low Blows
Hitting below the belt can incapacitate an opponent temporarily and disrupt their strategy.
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Everyone knows how much it hurts to be hit downstairs Please keep your punches aware from people's reproductive organs.
Thanks..
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Holding and Hitting
Grabbing an opponent by the arm, neck, torso then hitting is a no-no. The ref may let it slide but best believe they will warn you if its excessive.
Elbows
This is boxing, not MMA. You use your fists not your elbows. Beware though as sometimes a fighter follows threw with an elbow as they punch so watch out.
Rabbit Punching
A rabbit punch is an attack delivered to the back of the head or to the base of the skull, infamous for cause intense and permanent injuries, including spinal cord injury, chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) or even instant death.
The judges don’t count rabbit punches but your body does keep score.
Spitting out Gumshelds
Sometimes a punch displaces your mouthpiece and sometimes fighters spit it out, hoping that the ref steps in and grants them that short break.
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Consequences and Ethics
Dirty tricks in boxing are universally condemned as they can cause significant injury and undermine the sport's integrity. Referees are trained to detect and penalize these actions, which can lead to:
* Warnings: Initial infractions are often met with verbal warnings.
* Point Deductions: Continued infractions can result in the deduction of points.
* Disqualification: Severe or repeated dirty tactics can lead to disqualification from the bout.
* Fines and Suspensions: Boxing commissions can impose fines and suspensions for serious violations, impacting a fighter’s career and earnings.
To Conclude, while the competitive nature of boxing can sometimes lead fighters to push the boundaries of the rules, maintaining the sport’s integrity and the safety of its participants is paramount. Fighters, trainers, and officials must work together to uphold the principles of fair play and sportsmanship in the ring.
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Moral of the story, protect yourself at all times!