department of state

Division of Professional Regulation

8800 Combative Sports Entertainment Rules and Regulations

Statutory Authority: 28 Delaware Code, Chapter 1 (28 Del.C. Ch. 1)

28 DE Admin. Code 8800

final

ORDER

8800 Combative Sports Entertainment Rules and Regulations

The Division of Professional Regulation ('the Division") published notice in the Register of Regulations and two Delaware newspapers of its intent to amend the existing regulations related to combative sports and combative sports entertainment. The public was afforded the opportunity to provide written comment on the proposed changes to James L. Collins, Director of the Division ("the Director").

The full text of the proposed revisions was published in the Register of Regulations, Volume 15, Issue 7, on January 1, 2012. The comment period was held open until the close of business on February 4, 2012.

SUMMARY OF THE EVIDENCE AND INFORMATION SUBMITTED

No written comments were received in regard to the proposed amendments to the regulations as published on January 1, 2012.

FINDINGS OF FACT AND CONCLUSIONS OF LAW

1. The public was given notice and an opportunity to provide the Division with comments in writing on the proposed amendments to the combative sports and sports entertainment regulations. The Division received no public comment.

2. The regulations as published on January 1, 2012 took into consideration public comment submitted at a previous public hearing on proposed changes that resulted in the regulations being republished in their entirety with the public again being given notice and the opportunity to comment.

3. Pursuant to 28 Del.C. ??103(b)(1) the Division has statutory authority to promulgate rules regulating all professional and amateur boxing, mixed martial arts and combative sports entertainment events held in the State.

4. The Division finds that the proposed regulations are necessary to clarify sections of the existing regulations based upon experience, and investigations into and observation of the practical effect of the regulations since they were first implemented. The changes to the regulations include, but are not limited to, specifications related to weight classes, equipment and clothing, bandage wraps, protective equipment fouls and violations, warnings, legal strikes, matchmaking, physical exams and other testing, requirements of the Division, and responsibilities of the promoter, fighter and seconds/cornermen. Changes were made to the regulations governing professional mixed martial arts, amateur mixed martial arts and combative sports entertainment.

5. The Division finds that the amendments to the regulations are necessary for the interest and protection of the public health, safety, and welfare of the public viewing combative sports and combative sports entertainment events and for the participants of the events.

DECISION AND EFFECTIVE DATE

The Director hereby adopts the amendments to the regulations to be effective 10 days following publication of this final Order in the Register of Regulations.

TEXT AND CITATION

The text of the regulations remains as published in the Register of Regulations, Vol. 15, Issue 7, January 1, 2012, without any modifications.

SO ORDERED this 14th day of February, 2012.

DIVISION OF PROFESSIONAL REGULATION

James L. Collins, Director

8800 Boxing and Combative Sports Entertainment Rules and Regulations

Part A Professional Boxing Rules and Regulations

1.0 Professional Boxing

1.1 All boxers, managers, seconds, officials and promoters shall follow the rules and regulations for the jurisdiction of the approved designated agent.

1.2 All boxers, managers, seconds, officials and promoters shall make application for licensure and permits to the approved designated agent.

1.3 Based on the requirements set forth in Title 28 ??105 (a) (7), the following criteria for determining physical and mental fitness shall include but is not limited to: blood pressure, pulse, respiration, heart rhythm, heart murmurs, ears, nose, throat, extremities, medications taken, negative pregnancy test results, and mental assessment, which must meet acceptable standards as determined by the examining physician prior to the event.

Part B Amateur Boxing Rules and Regulations

1.0 Amateur Boxing

1.1 All amateur bouts must have the sanction of an amateur boxing association recognized by the Director before a permit will be granted by the Division.

1.2 The application for permit must be submitted to the Division at least fifteen full working days prior to the scheduled event.

1.3 All amateur boxing events will be conducted in accordance with USA Boxing Rules or other approved sanctioning body's rules.

1.4 All boxers, coaches, assistant coaches, officials, physicians, administrators and clerks/inspectors shall be registered members of the approved sanctioning organization.

1.5 A physician licensed to practice in Delaware must examine a contestant before they enter the ring and the physician must also be at the ringside during the progress of the contest.

1.6 All protective gear shall comply with USA Boxing Rules or other approved sanctioning body's rules.

1.7 A representative from the Division may be in attendance at amateur events to observe the sanctioning body's compliance to the USA Boxing Rules or other approved sanctioning body's rules.

1.8 The representative from the Division shall have the authority to halt any part of the event at any time in the interest of public safety.

1.9 Nothing in these rules shall be applicable to any bouts or events conducted as an extracurricular activity by any educational institution or public safety training program in the State.

1.10 Based on the requirements set forth in Title 18 ??105 (b) (5), the following criteria for determining physical and mental fitness shall include but is not limited to: blood pressure, pulse, respiration, heart rhythm, heart murmurs, ears, nose, throat, extremities, medications taken, negative pregnancy test results, and mental assessment, which must meet acceptable standards as determined by the examining physician prior to the event.

Part C Professional Mixed Martial Arts

1.0 Weight Classes

1.1 Men's Division

1.1.1 Flyweight up to 125 lbs.

1.1.2 Bantamweight over 125 - 135 lbs.

1.1.3 Featherweight over 135 - 145 lbs.

1.1.4 Lightweight over 145 - 155 lbs.

1.1.5 Welterweight over 155 - 170 lbs.

1.1.6 Middleweight over 170 -185 lbs.

1.1.7 Light Heavyweight over 185 - 205 lbs.

1.1.8 Heavyweight over 205 -265 lbs. and

1.1.9 Super Heavyweight over 265 lbs.

1.2 Women's Division

1.2.1 Flyweight up to 105 lbs.

1.2.2 Bantamweight over 105-1140 lbs.

1.2.3 Featherweight over 1140-1230 lbs.

1.2.4 Lightweight over 1230-1320 lbs.

1.2.5 Welterweight over 1320-1410 lbs.

1.2.6 Middleweight over 1410-150 lbs.

1.2.7 Light Heavyweight over 150-15960 lbs.

1.2.8 Cruiserweight over 15960-16870 lbs.

1.2.9 Heavyweight over 16870 lbs.

1.3 Should a fighter be a no-show, that bout shall be canceled.

1.4 Should a fighter not make weight be over their weight class, they shall be given one (1) hour to make comply with their weight class but shall not be permitted to lose more than two (2) pounds in that time and shall be permitted to weigh-in a second time. There shall be a one (1) pound allowance in non-championship fights.

1.5 In some instances, fighters that are cleared for the same event may be approved to fight another fighter on the card pending approval of the Division or the Division's Designated Agent (hereafter referred to as the Division).

1.6 There shall be no allowances made for fighters being under their weight class. They will not be permitted to gain weight nor weigh-in a second time.

1.7 Fighters may fight up or down one Weight Division; however, weight differences between opposing fighters cannot exceed seven pounds, except for the following:

1.37.1 Weight differences between men fighters weighing over 185 pounds, fighting up or down one Weight Division, shall not be more than 15 pounds.

1.37.2 Weight differences between women fighters weighing over 16870 pounds, fighting up or down one Weight Division, shall not be more than 150 pounds.

1.8 Contestants shall be weighed in on scales approved by the Division at such a time and place as may be formally designated by the Division in advance of all scheduled bouts. Contestants must weigh in a maximum of 24 hours before the event. All contestants must attend the designated weigh-in proceedings unless otherwise excused by the Division. By special permission of the Division, contestants may be allowed to weigh-in no later than one hour but not greater than 24 hours before the scheduled time of the first match on the card. Contestants must weigh in on the same day as their opponent during the designated weigh-in period.

1.9 Attire for weigh-ins.

1.9.1 Male fighters shall wear no more than undergarments and light weight shorts only.

1.9.2 Female fighters shall wear no more than undergarments and light weight shorts and shirt only.

2.0 Fighting Area

2.1 All mixed martial arts events must be held in a ring or cage.

2.2 A cage used in an event of mixed martial arts must meet the following requirements:

2.2.1 The cage shall be no smaller than 18 feet by 18 feet and no larger than 32 feet by 32 feet. The fighting surface shall be covered with a minimum one inch layer of foam padding. Vinyl or other plastic rubberized covering shall be permitted.

2.2.2 The fighting surface shall not be more than four feet above the floor of the building and shall have suitable steps or ramp for use by the participants. Posts shall be made of metal not more than six inches in diameter, extending from the floor of the building to a minimum height of 58 inches above the fighting surface and shall be properly padded.

2.2.3 The fighting surface area shall be enclosed by a fence made of such material as will not allow a fighter to fall out or break through it onto the floor or spectators, including, but not limited to, vinyl coated chain link fencing. All metal parts shall be covered and padded and shall not be abrasive to the contestants.

2.2.4 The fence shall provide two separate entries onto the fighting surface.

2.3 A ring used in an event of mixed martial arts must meet the following requirements:

2.3.1 The ring must be no smaller than 18 feet square and no larger than 32 feet square within the ropes.

2.3.2 The ring floor must extend at least 18 inches beyond the ropes and must have at least a 1-inch layer of foam padding. Padding must extend beyond the ring ropes and over the edge of the platform, with a top covering of canvas, duck or similar material tightly stretched and laced to the ring platform. Material that gathers in lumps or ridges may not be used.

2.3.3 The ring platform must not be more than 4 feet above the floor of the building and must have suitable steps for the use of contestants.

2.3.4 Rings posts must be four in number and made of metal, extending from the floor of the building to a minimum height of 58 inches above the ring floor, and must be properly padded. Ring posts must be at least 18 inches away from the ring ropes.

2.3.5 There must be 5 ring ropes, not less than 1 inch in diameter and wrapped in soft material. The lowest ring rope must be 12 inches above the ring floor.

2.3.6 There may not be any obstruction or object, including, without limitation, a triangular border, on any part of the ring floor.

3.0 Equipment and Clothing

3.1 The promoter shall provide a rRing stool for each contestant. An appropriate number of stools or chairs shall be available for each contestant's seconds. They shall be located near each contestant's corner.

3.2 For each bout, the promoter is to provide a clean water bucket and clean plastic bottled water bottle in each corner for each contestant and ice for each contestant???s seconds.

3.3 Contestants shall wear mma shorts, biking shorts, boxing shorts, Muay Thai shorts or kick-boxing shorts.

3.4 Gi's or shirts are prohibited during competition.

3.5 Females shall wear rash guards.

3.6 Shoes are not permitted.

3.7 No clothing that is made of hard plastic or metallic surface or is deemed hazardous material is permitted.

3.8 No jewelry or piercing accessories is permitted during competition.

4.0 Bandage Wraps

4.1 Bandages shall be restricted to soft gauze cloth not more than 15 yards in length and two inches in width, held in place by not more than 610 feet of surgeon's tape, one inch in width for each hand.

4.2 Surgeon's adhesive tape shall be placed directly on each hand for protection near the wrist. The tape may cross the back of the hand twice and extend to cover and protect the knuckles cover the hand but not extend within ?? inch of the knuckles when the hand is clenched to make a fist.

4.3 The bandages and tape shall be placed on the contestant's hands in the dressing room designated area in the presence of the inspector. and in the presence of the manager or chief second of his or her opponent. It shall be signed off by the inspector with his/her initials and the date.

4.4 Under no circumstances are gloves to be placed on the hands of the contestant without the approval of the inspector Gloves are to be removed cage side after the fight in the presence of an inspector.

5.0 Mouth Pieces

5.1 All contestants are required to wear a mouthpiece during competition. The mouthpiece shall be subject to examination and approval by the attending physician.

5.2 The round cannot begin without the mouthpiece in place.

5.3 If the mouthpiece is involuntarily dislodged during competition, the referee shall call time, clean the mouthpiece and reinsert the mouthpiece at the first opportune moment, without interfering with the immediate action.

6.0 Protective Equipment

6.1 Male mixed martial artists shall wear a four proof groin protector of their own selection.

6.2 Female mixed martial artists shall wear a four proof chest protector during competition.

7.0 Gloves

7.1 The gloves shall be new for all bouts.

7.2 All contestants shall wear open finger minimum 4 ounce gloves and shall be supplied by the promoter. No contestant shall supply their own gloves. All gloves are subject to approval by the Division.

8.0 Appearance/hygiene

8.1 Hair shall be trimmed or tied back in such a manner as not to interfere with the vision of either contestant or cover any part of a contestant's face.

8.2 There shall be no oil or grease on any part of the body. A light coating of petroleum jelly may be applied to the contestants face in the presence of an inspector.

8.3 Fingernails and toenails must be cut and trimmed.

8.4 The use of BenGay, IcyHot, and other such sports cr??mes is prohibited.

9.0 Round Length

9.1 For non-championship bouts, the rounds will consist of three 5-minute rounds with one minute of rest in between rounds.

9.2 For championship bouts, the rounds may consist of five 5-minute rounds with one minute of rest in between rounds.

10.0 Stopping a Contest

The referee is the sole arbiter of a bout and is the only individual authorized to enter the fighting area at any time during competition to stop a contest except that referee shall stop a bout at the direction of the ringside physician or the Division. The contestant's chief second may signify to referee in an approved manner by the Division to stop the bout.

11.0 Judging and Scoring

11.1 All bouts will be evaluated and scored by three judges.

11.2 The 10-Point Must System will be the standard system of scoring. Under the 10 Point Must Scoring System, 10 points must be awarded to the winner of the round and nine points or less must be awarded to the loser, except for a rare even round, which is scored 10-10.

11.3 Judges shall evaluate MMA techniques, such as effective striking, effective grappling, control of the fighting area, effective aggressiveness and defense.

11.4 Evaluations shall be made in the order in which the techniques appear in 11.3 above, giving the most weight in scoring to effective striking, effective grappling, control of the fighting area and effective aggressiveness and defense.

11.5 Effective striking is judged by determining the total number of legal heavy strikes landed by a contestant.

11.6 Effective grappling is judged by considering the amount of successful executions of legal takedowns and reversals. Examples of factors to consider are take downs from standing position to mount position, passing the guard to mount position, and bottom position fighter using an active, threatening guard.

11.7 Control of fighting is judged by determining who is dictating the pace, location and position of the bout. Examples of factors to consider are countering a grappler's attempt at takedown by remaining standing and legally striking; taking down an opponent to force a ground fight; creating threatening submission attempts, passing the guard to achieve mount, and creating striking opportunities.

11.8 Effective aggressiveness means moving forward and landing a legal strike.

11.9 Effective defense means avoiding being struck, taken down or reversed while countering with offensive attacks.

11.10 The following objective scoring criteria shall be utilized by the judges when scoring a round;

11.11 A round is to be scored as a 10-10 Round when both contestants appear to be fighting evenly and neither contestant shows clear dominance in a round;

11.11.1 A round is to be scored as a 10-9 Round when a contestant wins by a close margin, landing the greater number of effective legal strikes, grappling and other maneuvers;

11.11.2 A round is to be scored as a 10-8 Round when a contestant overwhelmingly dominates by striking or grappling in a round.

11.11.3 A round is to be scored as a 10-7 Round when a contestant totally dominates by striking or grappling in a round.

11.12 Judges shall use a sliding scale and recognize the length of time the fighters are either standing or on the ground, as follows:

11.12.1 If the mixed martial artists spent a majority of a round on the canvas, then:

11.12.1.1 Effective grappling is weighed first; and

11.12.1.2 Effective striking is then weighed.

11.12.2 If the mixed martial artist spent a majority of a round standing, then:

11.12.2.1 Effective striking is weighed first; and

11.12.2.2 Effective grappling is then weighed.

11.12.3 If a round ends with a relatively even amount of standing and canvas fighting, striking and grappling are weighed equally.

12.0 Warnings

12.1 The referee may issue a warning for the following infractions. After the initial warning, if the prohibited conduct persists, a penalty may be issued at the sole discretion of the referee. The penalty may result in a deduction of points or disqualification.

12.1.1 Holding or grabbing the fence or any part of the cage or ring;

12.1.2 Holding opponent's shorts or gloves; or one???s own gloves or shorts.

12.1.3 The presence of more than two seconds on the fighting area perimeter.

13.0 Fouls and Violations:

13.1 If a fighter flagrantly breaks any rule, the official ring referee shall immediately disqualify him; however, if the foul is not severe or intentional, the referee may issue a warning or point deductions(s) from the offending fighter. The following are fouls and may result in penalties if committed:

13.1.1 Downward pointing elbow strikes;

13.1.2 Butting with the head;

13.1.3 Eye gouging of any kind;

13.1.4 Biting or spitting at an opponent;

13.1.5 Hair pulling;

13.1.6 Fish hooking;

13.1.7 Groin attacks of any kind;

13.1.8 Intentionally placing a finger in any opponent's orifice, cut or laceration;

13.1.9 Small joint manipulation;

13.1.10 Strikes to the spine or back of neck or back of the head or back of neck (defined as anywhere on the head behind the ears and behind the line that would extend from the back of one ear to the back of the other ear and across the top of the head);

13.1.11 Heel kicks to the kidney;

13.1.12 Attacking an opponent on or during the break;

13.1.13 Kicks to the head of a grounded fighter;

13.1.14 Kneeing the head of a grounded fighter;

13.1.15 Stomping of a grounded fighter;

13.1.16 Throat strikes of any kind;

13.1.17 Clawing, pinching, twisting the flesh or grabbing the clavicle;

13.1.18 The use of abusive language grossly offensive profanity or racist remarks in fighting area or in the fighters entrance or exit music;

13.1.19 Any unsportsmanlike conduct that causes an injury to opponent of any kind;

13.1.20 Attacking an opponent who is under the referee's care at the time;

13.1.21 Timidity (avoiding contact, or consistent dropping of mouthpiece, or faking an injury);

13.1.22 Interference from a mixed martial artists seconds;

13.1.23 Throwing an opponent out of the fighting area;

13.1.24 Flagrant disregard of the referee's instructions;

13.1.25 Spiking/slamming an opponent to the fighting surface on his or her head or neck;

13.1.26 Holding or grabbing the fence or any part of the ring or cage;

13.1.27 Any strikes to any joint.

13.2 Disqualification occurs after any combination of three of the fouls listed in 13.1 above. Disqualification will occur after a referee determines that a foul was intentional and flagrant.

13.3 Only a referee can assess a foul. If the referee does not call the foul, judges shall not make that assessment on their own and cannot factor such into their scoring calculations.

13.4 A fouled fighter has up to five minutes to recuperate.

13.5 If a foul is committed, the referee shall:

13.5.1 Call time;

13.5.2 Send the opponent to a neutral corner;

13.5.3 Check the fouled mixed martial artist's condition and safety; and

13.5.4 Assess the foul to the offending contestant, deduct points, and notify each corner's seconds, judges and the official scorekeeper.

13.6 If a bottom contestant commits a foul, unless the top contestant is injured, the fight shall continue, so as not to jeopardize the top contestant's superior positioning at the time.

13.6.1 The referee shall verbally notify the bottom contestant of the foul.

13.6.2 When the round is over, the referee shall assess the foul and notify both corners' seconds, the judges and the official scorekeeper.

13.6.3 The referee may terminate a bout based on the severity of a foul. For such a flagrant foul, a contestant shall lose by disqualification.

13.7 Any point or points to be deducted for any foul must be deducted in the round in which the foul occurred.

13.8 Fighters cannot win by intentionally or accidentally fouling another fighter.

14.0 Legal Strikes

14.1 While Standing

14.1.1 Closed hand strikes and elbows to the body, and head and legs.

14.1.2 Kicking techniques to body, legs and head.

14.1.3 Knees to the body, legs and head.

14.1.4 Takedowns, Throws and Sweeps.

14.1.5 Chokes, Armbars Armlocks and Shouldering.

14.1.6 Standing Submissions.

14.2 While on the Ground

14.2.1 Closed hand strikes and elbows to body, legs and head.

14.2.2 Submissions.

15.0 Injuries

15.1 If an injury sustained during competition as a result of a legal maneuver is severe enough to terminate a bout, the injured contestant loses by technical knockout.

15.2 If an injury sustained during competition as a result of an intentional foul is severe enough to terminate a bout, the contestant causing the injury loses by disqualification.

15.3 If an injury is sustained during competition as a result of an intentional foul and the bout is allowed to continue, the referee shall notify the scorekeeper to automatically deduct two points from the contestant who committed the foul.

15.4 If an injury sustained during competition as a result of an intentional foul causes the injured contestant to be unable to continue at a subsequent point in the contest, the injured contestant shall win by technical decision, if he or she is ahead on the score cards. If the injured contestant is even or behind on the score cards at the time of stoppage, the outcome of the bout shall be declared a technical draw.

15.5 If a contestant injures himself or herself while attempting to foul his or her opponent, the referee shall not take any action in his or her favor, and the injury shall be treated in the same manner as an injury produced by a fair blow.

15.6 If an injury sustained during competition as a result of an accidental foul is severe enough for the referee to stop the bout immediately, the bout shall result in a no decision if stopped before two rounds have been completed in a three round bout or if stopped before three rounds have been completed in a five round bout.

15.7 If an injury sustained during competition as a result of an accidental foul is severe enough for the referee to stop the bout immediately, the bout shall result in a technical decision awarded to the contestant who is ahead on the score cards at the time the bout is stopped only when the bout is stopped after two rounds of a three round bout, or three rounds of a five round bout have been completed.

15.8 All partial rounds will be scored after the second round has been completed in a non-championship bout or the third round of a championship bout.

16.0 Types Of Bout Results:

16.1 Submission by:

16.1.1 Tap Out: When a contestant physically uses his hand to indicate that he or she no longer wishes to continue; or

16.1.2 Verbal tap out: When a contestant verbally announces to the referee that he or she does not wish to continue;

16.2 Technical knockout by:

16.2.1 Referee or a representative of Division of Professional Regulation stops bout;

16.2.2 Ringside physician directs the referee to stop the bout;

16.2.3 When an injury as a result of a legal maneuver is severe enough to terminate a bout;

16.2.4 If second concedes on behalf of the fighter.

16.3 Knockout by failure to rise from the fighting surface;

16.4 Decision via score cards:

16.4.1 Unanimous: When all three judges score the bout for the same contestant;

16.4.2 Split Decision: When two judges score the bout for one contestant and one judge scores for the opponent; or

16.4.3 Majority Decision: When two judges score the bout for the same contestant and one judge scores a draw;

16.5 Draws:

16.5.1 Unanimous - When all three judges score the bout a draw

16.5.2 Majority - When two judges score the bout a draw; or

16.5.3 Split - When all three judges score differently and the score total results in a draw;

16.6 Disqualification: When an injury sustained during competition as a result of an intentional foul is severe enough to terminate the contest;

16.7 Forfeit: When a contestant fails to begin competition or prematurely ends the contest for reasons other than injury or by indicating a tap out;

16.8 Technical Draw: When an injury sustained during competition as a result of an intentional foul causes the injured contestant to be unable to continue and the injured contestant is even or behind on the score cards at the time of stoppage;

16.9 Technical Decision: When the bout is prematurely stopped due to injury and a contestant is leading on the score cards; and

16.10 No Decision: When a contest is prematurely stopped due to accidental injury and a sufficient number of rounds have not been completed to render a decision via the score cards.

17.0 Matchmaking:

17.1 The matchmaking of the contestants is subject to the approval of the Division.

17.2 Matchmaker must present suitable evidence reflecting experience as a matchmaker. The final decision on suitability shall be made by the Division.

18.0 Physical Exams and Other Testing:

18.1 Contestants must complete and submit the following results in of the following tests in writing to the Division:

18.1.1 A physical completed within six three (3) months of the event. HIV exam with negative results is required in order to compete in an event and test must be dated within six months of event.

18.1.2 HIV 1/2 qualitative test, cComplete Hepatitis B Surface AG testing & Hepatitis C AB (must be tested within six months of event.) and lab results must be faxed from the lab to the Division.

18.1.3 Complete Blood Count (CBC) and Bleed & Coagulation (PT/PTT Pro Time) within four (4) years of the event.

18.1.4 Original EKG report, read by a physician (Dated within six months two (2) years of the event.) Fighters over the age of 35 years old, shall have their report dated within one (1) year of the event.

18.1.5 Original CT/MRI Brain Scan report (without contrast), read by a physician (dated within three years of event.)

18.1.6 Original EYE examination by an ophthalmologist-ophthalmological dilation (dated within six months one (1) year of the event.)

18.1.7 Serum Pregnancy test for female contestants (dated within 7 days of event.) All female contestants must complete a pregnancy test the day of the event and the results must be negative. The pregnancy test kit shall be provided by the promoter.

18.1.8 Annual Physical/clinical Gynecological and Breast Exam for female contestants. A chemistry 14 test shall be completed within four (4) years of the event.

18.1.9 A urinalysis test shall be completed within four (4) years of the event.

18.1.910 If contestant's injuries result in broken bones or concussion, the contestant shall be suspended for the length of the recovery time according to physician's orders. The ringside physician may place a contestant on a medical suspension for any injuries. The contestant is required to furnish a letter of clearance from the treating physician.

18.1.11 Any fighter 40 years or older may be required by the Division to present more current test results or additional test results.

18.1.1012 Based on the requirements set forth in Title 28 ??105(a)(7), the following criteria for determining physical and mental fitness shall include but is not limited to: blood pressure, pulse, respiration, heart rhythm, heart murmurs, ears, nose, throat, extremities, medications taken, negative pregnancy test results, and mental assessment, which must meet acceptable standards as determined by the examining physician prior to the event.

18.1.13 Mandatory drug testing on the day of the event.

18.2 A fighter must receive clearance from his personal physician and the ringside physician in order to fight after the physicians have reviewed the required tests.

19.0 Requirements of the Division:

19.1 Promoter must present suitable evidence reflecting experience as a promoter. The final decision on suitability shall be made by the Division.

19.2 Matchmaker must present suitable evidence reflecting experience as a matchmaker. The final decision on suitability shall be made by the Division.

19.13 Require promoter to provide proof of sufficient liability insurance for the officials.

19.24 Require promoter to provide proof of sufficient medical insurance including Accidental Death and Dismemberment insurance for contestants including the deductibe amount as per application requirements.

19.35 Require promoter to provide an ambulance with life saving equipment and with at least 2 EMTs one of which is a and 2 paramedics, to be present and on site at all times and have a Delaware licensed physician onsite and at ringside. The paramedics will maintain a supply of life saving medicines and equipment to be available as needed.

19.46 Verify the matchmaking done by the promoter by confirming the fight records.

19.57 The Division shall not have any direct or indirect interest of any kind in the fighters, the promoter or the event.

19.68 Oversee the weigh-ins, the hand wrapping and glove placement after inspecting the gloves.

19.9 The Division shall provide a fighters' meeting to review the rules and regulations prior to the commencement of the fights.

19.710 Must inspect and approve the fighting area prior to the start of the contests.

19.811 Follow all Delaware laws and rules governing Professional Mixed Martial Arts Events.

19.912 Report results of each bout and suspensions to the Association of Boxing Commissions data base within seven days of the event.

19.103 Agree not to hold the event if the promoter has not obtained adequate security to maintain control over the event and provide safety to the public during and after the event.

19.114 Oversee drug testing to be performed on the day of the event on all contestants for illegal drugs, banned substances and performance enhancers.

19.15 Oversee pregnancy tests by a female official only.

20.0 Responsibilities of the Promoter:

20.1 Follow all Delaware rules and laws governing Professional Mixed Martial Arts Events.

20.2 Promoter must present suitable evidence reflecting experience as a promoter. The final decision on suitability shall be made by the Division.

20.23 Obtain verbal approval from the Division before applying in writing to the Division for the permit to hold a Mixed Martial Arts Event.

20.34 Submit an application to the Division at least thirty days in advance of the event for a permit to hold an MMA event along with the required fee.

20.45 Receive permit before holding the MMA event.

20.56 Coordinate matchmaking to be approved by the Division.

20.67 Cooperate fully with the Division:

20.67.1 Fees

20.67.2 Match Making approval of the Division.

20.67.3 Engage services and provide evidence to the Division that an ambulance with life saving equipment and at least 2 EMTs one of which is a and 2 paramedics, will be on-site during competition. The paramedics will maintain a supply of life saving medicines and equipment to be available as needed.

20.67.4 Engage services and provide evidence to the Division that a Delaware licensed physician will be on site during and directly after the competition.

20.67.5 Engage contract and provide to the Division proof that medical insurance and an accidental death insurance policy has been purchased per application requirements, including all deductibles.

20.67.6 Engage contract and provide to the Division proof that liability insurance has been purchased per the amount required by the venue.

20.78 Agree to not officiate at their own events. Cannot have interest of any kind in the Division.

20.89 Cannot be involved or interfere in the oversight of the referee, judging, weighing-in, drug testing, post and pre-fight physicals, and glove inspections.

20.910 Provide the required gloves, gauze and adhesive tape for fighter wraps, duct tape, disposable gloves for corner persons, water for all fighters and officials, access to ice for corner persons, stools for each contestant, and clean water bucket.

20.101 Provide the fight card that indicates the weight of the fighters and the weight division that the fighters will be in as well as the complete fight records for each contestant, including records for other combative sports in which they were a participant.

20.112 Ensure that there will be NO exhibition bouts.

20.123 Provide hand sanitizer to the fighters to be kept at the equipment table.

20.134 Sanitize all equipment before and after each fight.

20.145 Provide adequate security personnel to maintain order and provide safety during and after the event.

20.156 Obtain a Delaware business license.

20.167 Execute and file a surety bond with the State of Delaware for not less than $10,000.

20.178 Pay for drug testing to be performed on day of event on all contestants for illegal drugs, banned substances and performance enhancers. The Division shall oversee the testing.

20.19 Pay for female pregnancy test kit to be performed on the day of the event.

21.0 Requirements of Fighter:

21.1 Attend pre-fight meeting. Failure to attend will result in disqualification of the fighter.

21.2 Be 18 years or older to participate.

21.3 Pass drug testing completed the day of the event and the pre-fight physical.

21.4 Agree not to use any illegal drug, narcotic, stimulant, depressant, analgesic of any description, or alcohol substance either before or during a match.

21.5 Obtain National MMA ID number prior to the event.

21.6 Follow all Delaware laws, Rules and Regulations and requirements of the Division.

21.7 Obtain a pre-fight and post-fight physical by the physician assigned to the event.

21.8 If fighter should be a no-show, that bout shall be canceled. Under no circumstances shall a fighter be permitted to cut more than two pounds to make weight.

21.9 Fighter shall not fight a minimum of tens days from last fight.

21.10 Complete all forms and requirements of the Division.

22.0 Requirements of Seconds/Cornermen:

22.1 Each fighter may have three seconds, but only two seconds at a time are permitted in the fighting area and only when given permission by the referee. The Division may authorize an additional cornerman for championship fights at their discretion.

22.2 Permitted to use such general anti-coagulants such as Thrombin, Adrenaline Hydrochloride 1:1000 and Aventine or any other first aid medicine approved by the Division to cuts that are in their original labeled containers.

22.3 Must dry the corner area before the next round continues.

22.4 Follow all Delaware laws, Rules and Regulations and requirements of the Division.

22.5 Attend pre-fight meeting. Failure to attend can result in disqualification of the non-compliant second.

Part D Amateur Mixed Martial Arts

1.0 Weight Classes:

1.1 Men's Division

1.1.1 Flyweight up to 11225 lbs.

1.1.2 Bantamweight over 11225-11835 lbs.

1.1.3 Super Bantamweight over 118-122 lbs.

1.1.43 Featherweight over 12235-12645 lbs.

1.1.5 Super Featherweight over 126-130 lbs.

1.1.64 Lightweight over 13045-13555 lbs.

1.1.7 Super Lightweight over 135-140 lbs.

1.1.85 Welterweight over 14055-1470 lbs.

1.1.9 Super Welterweight over 147-154 lbs.

1.1.106 Middleweight over 15470-16085 lbs.

1.1.11 Super Middleweight over 160-167 lbs.

1.1.127 Light Heavyweight over 16785-175205 lbs.

1.1.13 Super Lt. Heavyweight over 175-183 lbs.

1.1.14 Cruiserweight over 183-190 lbs.

1.1.15 Super Cruiserweight over 190-195 lbs.

1.1.168 Heavyweight over 195205-21065 lbs.

1.1.179 Super Heavyweight over 21065 lbs.

1.2 Women's Division

1.2.1 Flyweight up to 105 lbs.

1.2.2 Bantamweight over 105-1140 lbs.

1.2.3 Featherweight over 1140-1230 lbs.

1.2.4 Lightweight over 1230-1320 lbs.

1.2.5 Welterweight over 1320-1410 lbs.

1.2.6 Middleweight over 1410-150 lbs.

1.2.7 Light Heavyweight over 150-15960 lbs.

1.2.8 Cruiserweight over 15960-16870 lbs.

1.2.9 Heavyweight over 16870 lbs.

1.3 Contestants shall be weighed in on scales approved by the sanctioning body at such a time and place as may be formally designated by the sanctioning body in advance of all scheduled bouts. Contestants must weigh in a maximum of 24 hours before the event. All contestants must attend the designated weigh-in proceedings unless otherwise excused by the sanctioning body. By special permission of the sanctioning body, contestants may be allowed to weigh-in no later than one hour but not greater than 24 hours before the scheduled time of the first match on the card. Contestants must weigh in on the same day as their opponent during the designated weigh-in period.

1.4 Attire for weigh-ins.

1.4.1 Male fighters shall wear no more than undergarments and light weight shorts only.

1.4.2 Female fighters shall wear no more than undergarments and light weight shorts and shirt only.

1.35 Should a fighter be a no-show, that bout shall be canceled.

1.6 In some instances, fighters that are cleared for the same event may be approved to fight another fighter on the card pending approval of the sanctioning body.

1.7 Should a fighter not make be over their weight class, they shall be given one (1) hour to make comply with their weight class but shall not be permitted to lose more than two (2) pounds in that time and shall be permitted to weigh-in a second time. There shall be a one (1) pound allowance in non-championship fights. In some instances, fighters that are cleared for the same event may be approved to fight another fighter on the card pending approval of the sanctioning body.

1.8 There shall be no allowances made for fighters being under their weight class. They will not be permitted to gain weight nor weigh-in a second time.

1.9 Fighters may fight up or down one Weight Division; however, weight differences between opposing fighters cannot exceed seven pounds, except for the following:

1.39.1 Weight differences between men fighters weighing over 210 pounds, fighting up or down one Weight Division, shall not be more than 15 pounds.

1.39.2 Weight differences between women fighters weighing over 16870 pounds, fighting up or down one Weight Division, shall not be more than 150 pounds.

2.0 Fighting Area: