235.08.22 Ark. Code R. 003

Current through Register Vol. 49, No. 10, October, 2024

Rule 235.08.22-003 - Administrative Rules Pertaining to the Arkansas State Athletic Commission

CHAPTER 1 - GENERAL RULES

Purpose. The Rules are promulgated and adopted for the purpose of effecting and enforcing the Combative Sports Law, providing for the efficient and proper administration of the Commission's activities, duties and responsibilities, and enforcing the Rules themselves. The Rules further serve to protect the health, safety and welfare of persons participating in, viewing or performing any activity related in any way to an Event, as well as, the members of the general public in the State of Arkansas.

1.1Authority. In accordance with Arkansas Code Annotated § 17-22-101 et seq., the following Rules are promulgated and adopted by the Commission.

1.1.1 All activities, events, hearings, persons and meetings under, subject to or arguably falling within the Commission's jurisdiction shall be subject to these Rules.

1.1.2 These Rules shall be liberally construed and broadly applied within the constraints of due process and any long-arm statutes of the State of Arkansas so as to do substantial justice and operate to protect the health, safety and welfare of the person participating in or performing any activity related in any way to an Event and members of the general public.

1.1.3 These Rules are supplemental to, not in limitation of, the Commission's authority and power provided by the Combative Sports Law and all other laws, ordinances and rules of the State of Arkansas, counties and municipalities thereof.

1.1.4 The Commission, including through its Committees and Designated employee(s), shall, in its sole discretion and on a case by case basis, have the authority to add to, deviate from or create an exception to these Rules upon receipt of a duly submitted request or in such other circumstances as the Commission, in its sole discretion, deems necessary or prudent under the circumstances. The Commission's prior addition to, deviation from or exception to these Rules shall not be construed or operate to require or obligate the Commission to add to, deviate from or create an exception to these Rules under the same or similar circumstances in the future. No person shall rely upon or use as a basis for their non-compliance with these Rules the Commission's prior or subsequent additions to, deviations from or exceptions to these Rules.

1.1.5 The Commission and Inspectors are permitted in any Event without charge for the purpose of checking and insuring compliance with these Rules. This does not provide preferential seating for those not assigned directly to the Event.

1.2Revocation of Prior & Rules. Upon adoption of these Rules, the Commission's prior administrative rules are revoked and superseded by these Rules.

1.3Supplementation, Amendment, Interpretation & Limitations. Any Rule may be supplemented or amended from time to time by the Commission and are subject to further interpretation by the Commission or the Commission's members, Inspectors or agents as necessary from time to time.

1.3.1 The Rules provided for herein do not limit the actions permitted to be taken by the Commission, Committee or the Commission's members, Inspectors or agents from time to time for the purpose of ensuring compliance with the Combative Sports Law, Rules or the protection, safety and welfare of the public, spectators, Officials, or Contestants.

1.3.2 The interpretation of any Rule shall be at the sole discretion of the Commission on a case by case basis and such interpretation shall be final and binding with respect to the matter requiring an interpretation, with the over-riding concern to be the health, safety and welfare of participants and the public, and whether or not the situation is correctable.

1.3.3 During the performance of official Commission duties or in any other circumstance in which the Commission may be deemed to be taking official action, the Commission and its members, Inspectors and agents are specifically prohibited from providing legal advice to a person or entity subject to the jurisdiction of or regulation by the Commission.

1.4Commission Office. The Commission shall maintain for the transaction of its business a main office at a location to be designated from time to time by the Commission.

1.5Meetings. The Commission shall meet at the times and places designated by the Chairman from time to time, but not less than once per calendar quarter, for the purpose of conducting the Commission's business. Committees shall meet at the times and places designated by the Committee Chairman for the purpose of conducting the Committee's business. At each Commission or Committee meeting, every Member entitled to vote shall have the right to one vote on each matter presented for voting, whether in person, electronically, or telephonically. A quorum of the full Commission or Committee shall be necessary for voting to decide any matter required to be voted upon by the Commission or Committee, as the case may be. A quorum of any meeting of the Commission or Committee shall consist of a majority of the Members thereof. Unless otherwise stated in these Rules or authority is otherwise granted by the Commission, the vote of the majority of the quorum in attendance at Commission or Committee meeting shall decide any question presented at the meeting and requiring a vote thereon.

1.6Per Diem and Expense Reimbursement for Members & Inspectors. Members are entitled to only the State approved per diem. Inspectors or other officials assigned by ASAC shall be entitled to the fees established in the Rules. In addition to the per diem or reimbursement of actual expenses provided for hereunder, the Member, Inspector or other appointed officials shall be entitled to compensation for mileage at the rate prescribed in Arkansas' state employee travel rules, excepting that employees shall receive salary as established in the hiring policies of Arkansas. In order to receive the per diem, expenses and mileage compensation hereunder, the Member or Inspector must have attended the meeting or event for official business at the specific request of the Designated employee(s), Chairman or duly authorized Member. Members shall receive the per diem only, travel expenses and mileage compensation hereunder for attendance at Commission meetings.

1.7Assessments for Reimbursement. If the per diem, expenses and mileage reimbursement paid by the Commission to the Member, Inspector, Judge, Doctor, Referee, and Timekeeper is necessitated by attendance at an Event or any other activity, hearing or meeting conducted by the Commission or Committee for the purpose of investigating or administering any complaint or suspected violation of the Combative Sports Law or Rules, the Commission, Committee or Designated employee(s) may assess the costs of the per diem, expenses and mileage reimbursement against the person(s) or entity(ies) necessitating such attendance of the Commission member(s) and inspector(s), with any such assessment being in addition to any other sanctions, fees or other action taken by the Commission, Committee or Designated employee(s).

1.8Designated employee(s). The Designated employee(s) shall have the following duties, powers and authority in addition to the other duties, powers and authority expressed or implied by the Commission these Rules and the laws of the State of Arkansas:

1.8.1 The Designated employee(s) shall be present at all Commission meetings and record the minutes of such meetings. In the absence of the Designated employee(s), the Chairman, or the Vice-Chairman in the absence of the Chairman, shall appoint a commission member to keep the minutes.

1.8.2 The Designated employee(s) is directed and authorized to do all acts and take steps as may be necessary for the operation and enforcement of Arkansas Code § 17-22-101 et seq., these Rules, and any other rule or directive promulgated by the Commission including, without limitation, the appointment, hiring, and licensure of Inspectors to assist the Designated employee(s) in enforcement of the Combative Sports Law and these Rules.

1.8.3 The Designated employee(s) is directed to keep a full and true record of all proceedings of the Commission, preserve at its general office all its books, documents and papers. The Designated employee(s) shall insure that at least one Commission member always has access to all Commission records.

1.8.4 The Designated employee(s) shall collect monies on behalf of the Commission and is authorized to incur such expenses, and make such expenditures, as may be necessary to carry out and effectuate the Designated employee(s)'s duties and powers.

1.9Disciplinary or Other Administrative Action. Any action above that of a verbal warning or written reprimand, on any matter involving a Licensee or person subject to licensure or regulation under these Rules may be taken by the Commission, Committee, Designated employee(s) or Inspector subject to a hearing. If negative action such as Revocation or Suspension of licensure is proposed, a notice of hearing letter will be mailed to such person's last known address pursuant to Arkansas Code §§ 25-15-208 and -212.

1.9.1 Any contract or agreement, whether concerning an amateur or professional event or bout, that is the basis for a complaint or disciplinary action must be in writing, contain any written provisions required in these Rules, and properly executed by the parties. A copy of the contract shall be provided to the Commission before any investigation or disciplinary action will be taken.

1.10Prohibited Activities. No person shall engage in any activity, which is performed wholly or partially within the State of Arkansas and subject to regulation under the Arkansas Combative Sports Law or these Rules, without fully complying with the Combative Sports Law, these Rules and possessing a valid license from the Commission for such activity.

1.10.1 No person holding a license issued by the Commission shall participate or engage in any activity for which an Event license has not been issued or has been denied or revoked by the Commission.

1.10.2 No person holding a license issued by the Commission shall participate or engage in any activity in connection with an Event while having within their body any alcohol or Drug or while otherwise under the influence of alcohol or a Drug. Provided however, participation may be allowed if the Licensee possesses a current and valid prescription from a Doctor for the Drug and the Drug does not, in the sole discretion of the Commission, result in an impediment or impairment of the performance of Licensee's duties or responsibilities nor result in an unfair competitive advantage.

1.10.3 No person shall be allowed to participate or perform services in connection with an Event, unless the person has proof of identification and a current license for their activity. Acceptable proof of identification includes driver's license, passport, state issued identification card, federal identification boxing card, or any other identification required by the designated employee(s).

1.10.4 No person shall interfere with or hinder an Official's performance of his or her duties or threaten physical harm to any person present at an Event or any activity related or associated with an Event, except physical harm may be threatened between Contestants within the boundaries of other applicable laws.

1.10.5 Judges, Timekeepers, Referees, and Doctors may not have a direct or indirect financial interest in any Contestant participating in a specific match or bout or in an Event for which they are providing services.

1.10.6 No Professional shall compete against an Amateur.

1.10.7 No person shall use abusive language, use profanity or otherwise conduct themselves in a manner which is disrespectful to the Commission, Commissioners, Officials, any person at an Event or otherwise engage in disruptive conduct.

1.11Definitions. The definitions found in Arkansas Code § 17-22-101 et seq., as amended from time to time, shall apply to the Commission's Rules, as well as, all Commission activities and the following definitions are supplemental thereto. The following words or terms shall have the meaning ascribed thereto, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

1.11.1 "ABC" means The Association of Boxing Commissions.

1.11.2 "Act" means Act 781 of the 2009 Arkansas Legislative Session and Act 1096 of the 2013 Arkansas Legislative Session, and subsequent amendments.

1.11.3 "Administrator" or "Designated employee(s)" means the Designated employee, Program Manager or Managing Director of the Arkansas State Athletic Commission.

1.11.4 "Amateur" means a Contestant who has never, directly or indirectly, received or competed for any Purse exceeding the lesser of $100 or the actual expenses incurred by the Contestant for training and travel relating to a particular contest, Exhibition or Event. Notwithstanding the foregoing, a Combative Sports Contestants shall be considered an Amateur if the Contestant meets the eligibility requirements, as amended from time to time, of USA Boxing, if applicable to Contestant, and the International Olympic Committee ("IOC"), if the IOC regulates the Contestant's Combative Sport.

1.11.5 "Announcer" means a person who announces the names of the officials, judges, sponsors, Contestants, Contestants' weights, decisions of each contest, and otherwise provides information to the spectators during an Event.

1.11.6 "Certified" means a Judge or Referee who has completed the necessary certification requirements and testing, of the ABC or other certifying entity recognized by the Commission, or other criteria developed and approved by the Commission; with such certification having been offered within the state at least once during a 12 month period prior to said Certification being required for Professional Referees and Judges. Certified can also mean a doctor who has completed the necessary certification requirements and testing, if required, of the American Association of Ringside Physicians or International Association of Ringside Physicians and is currently certified by either organization.

1.11.7 "Chairman" means the Chairman of the Commission or Sub-committee, as the case may be or context may indicate.

1.11.8 "Chief Second" means the Second designated by the Contestant as the primary advisor or assistant to the Contestant during a contest.

1.11.9 "Combative Sports Law" means Arkansas Code § 17-22-101 et seq., as amended from time to time.

1.11.10 "Combative Sports Tax" means the five percent (5%) tax, or other such tax rate established by the Combative Sports Law, upon the Gross Receipts derived from an Event.

1.11.11 "Commission" means the Arkansas State Athletic Commission or one of its duly appointed sub-committees, members, inspectors or agents, as the case may be or context may indicate.

1.11.12 "Committee" means any committee or sub-committee duly appointed by the Commission from time to time, either through a full vote of the members of the Commission or through establishment and appointment by the Chairman, to assist the Commission with the administration of the Commission's affairs, business and duties. Each committee or sub- committee shall be comprised of at least one, but not all, Commission member and if deemed necessary and duly appointed, any other non- Commission member. The Chairman shall not have the authority to appoint non- Commission members to any committee or sub-committee without the consent and affirmative vote of the Commission.

1.11.13 "Contestant" means any participant who competes or otherwise participates in an Event through the use or display of their combative sports or other skills.

1.11.14 "Count" means either an Eight Count or Ten Count given by the Referee to a Contestant who has suffered a Knock-down.

1.11.15 "Deadwood" the numerical difference between tickets printed and tickets sold, given away or otherwise used.

1.11.16 "Disciplinary Committee" means the Committee established for the purpose of investigating, hearing and deciding complaints, alleged violations of the Rules and other matters subject to regulation by the Commission.

1.11.17 "Disqualification" means a combative sports contest ending with the Referee disqualifying a Contestant or the Commission disqualifying a Contestant for any violation of these Rules or other rules or directives. A Disqualification is a loss. A Disqualification may be officially reported using the abbreviation "DQ."

1.11.18 "Doctor" means a medical doctor or doctor of osteopathy, who is currently licensed by the State of Arkansas to practice medicine, if applying for a license under these Rules or engaging in any activity related to an Event, or licensed to practice medicine in any state or territory of the United States of America, if not applying for a license under these Rules or engaging in any activity related to an Event.

1.11.19 "Down" or "Knock-down" occurs when, as the result of a legal blow as determined by the Referee, any part of a Contestant's body, except the Contestant's feet, touches the floor of the ring, or when, as the result of a legal blow as determined by the Referee, any part of a Contestant's body, except the Contestant's feet, would have (as determined by the Referee) touched the floor of the ring but for the Contestant being supported by the ropes or cage.

1.11.20 "Draw" means a combative sports contest ending with either an equal number of judges having scored the same Contestant as both the winner and loser, or ending with all judges having scored the Contestants with the same score. A Draw may be officially reported using the abbreviation "D."

1.11.21 "Drug" means any illegal chemical or chemical compound or controlled substance or legally prescribed chemical or chemical compound regulated or within the jurisdiction of the federal Drug Enforcement Agency, federal Food & Drug Administration or federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, and any successor agency thereto and any substance banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency at the time and for the specific event.

1.11.22 "Eight Count" means a count of eight (8) given by the Referee to a Contestant who has suffered a Knock-down. An Eight Count starts at the time the Contestant is Down and shall continue to the count of eight (8) even after the Contestant returns to a non-Down position following a Knock-down. Each count one (1) through eight (8) should be approximately one (1) second in length but may be fractionally longer or shorter depending on the circumstances.

1.11.23 "Elimination Tournament" means an Event in which:

1.11.23.1 None of the Contestants are, nor have they at any time been, licensed as a Professional Contestant or otherwise competed as an unlicensed Professional Contestant anywhere in the world;

1.11.23.2 Each bout or contest is scheduled for three (3) or fewer one (1) minute rounds with at least one (1) minute of rest between each round;

1.11.23.3 Bouts or contests, which are part of the Elimination Tournament, are scheduled for not more than two (2) consecutive calendar days;

1.11.23.4 Contestants in the Elimination Tournament are limited to twelve (12) minutes or less of Combative Sports activity on the second day and no more than three (3) minutes of competition on the first day of the Elimination Tournament; and

1.11.23.5 Contestants in the Elimination Tournament are prohibited from continuing in the same Elimination Tournament after their first loss by Knockout or Technical Knockout.

1.11.23.6 "Event" means a contest, Exhibition or Elimination Tournament involving sparring, boxing, kickboxing, martial arts, mixed martial arts, or any other type of combative sport including, without limitation, any combination of the foregoing which is subject to regulation by the Combative Sports Law or these Rules.

1.11.24 "Event Coordinator" means any person who is not an employee of the Promoter, but is otherwise engaged by the Promoter or does actually arrange on behalf of or for the benefit the Promoter any of the following

(i) advertising;

(ii) labor;

(iii) lodging;

(iv) transportation;

(v) venue;

(vi) venue setup or tear-down;

(vii) any other activity associated with an Event which has the potential to misinform or mislead the Contestants, Seconds, Officials or public attending the Event.

1.11.25 "Exhibition" means a combative sports contest, exhibition or other display of the Contestant's skills in which neither Contestant strives to win, which ends with no decision being rendered by the Judge(s), no score being kept or recorded, no winner or loser being determined by any person(s) and does not exceed three (3) rounds.

1.11.26 "Female" generally means a person designated as such on her State or Federal ID.

1.11.27 "Full Contact Rules" means Kickboxing Event in which kicks to only the body and head are permitted and kicks below the waist are prohibited.

1.11.28 "Good Cause" means, without limitation,

(i) A Doctor's refusal to approve a contestant to compete;

(ii) Failure to pay any sum due to the Commission or Official;

(iii) Failure to pay any Contestant for whom a contract exists;

(iv) Suspension or revocation of a license issued by another state or country;

(v) Failure to observe or comply with any Rule; or

(vi) Any other fact or circumstance the Commission, in its sole discretion, deems to be a reasonable basis for taking or refusing to take any action.

1.11.29 "Gross Receipts" means the total money, remuneration or other thing or service of value received for admission to an event.

1.11.30 "Inspector" means any person duly appointed and designated by the Commission or Designated employee(s) who may issue licenses, collect license fees, or oversee the proper execution of the Arkansas Combative Sports Law and Rules.

1.11.31 "International Rules" means Kickboxing Event in which kicks to the body, head and below the hip are permitted; however, kicks to the groin are prohibited.

1.11.32 "Judge" means a person responsible for scoring an Event.

1.11.33 "Knockout" means a combative sports contest ending with a Contestant suffering a Knock-down and immediately thereafter either failing to return to a non- Down position before the referee completes a Ten Count or the Referee terminating the Ten Count and ending the contest due to the Referee's determination the Contestant is unfit to continue the contest. A Knockout may be officially reported using the abbreviation "KO."

1.11.34 "Lights-out Suspension" means suspension for ninety (90) calendar days or longer if deemed advisable by the Doctor or Commission.

1.11.35 "Majority Decision" means a combative sports contest ending with a majority of the judges scoring the contest in favor of one contestant with the remaining judge scoring the Contestants with the same score. A Majority Decision may be officially reported using the abbreviation "MDec."

1.11.36 "Majority Draw" means a combative sports contest ending with a majority, but not all, of the judges scoring the Contestants with the same score. A Majority Draw may be officially reported using the abbreviation "MD."

1.11.37 "Male" generally means a person designated as such on his State or Federal ID.

1.11.38 "Manager" means any person who, directly or indirectly, controls or administers the affairs of a Professional Contestant with respect to his or her combative sports affairs or otherwise advises a Professional Contestant with respect to his or her combative sports affairs.

1.11.39 "Martial Arts" or "Mixed Martial Arts" means any discipline in which the participants utilize the exertion of pressure, grappling, holds, kicks, punches, blows, strikes, or any combination of the foregoing techniques including, without limitation, any form of Judo, Kung Fu, Karate, Tae Kwan do, Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai, or any other discipline.

1.11.40 "Matchmaker" means person who arranges, contracts or negotiates or inquires about the possibility of an arrangement, contract or negotiation for a Contestant's participation in any bout or contest related to an Event.

1.11.41 "Member" means any member of the Commission or Committee, as the case may be or context may indicate.

1.11.42 "Minimum Suspension" means a suspension of thirty (30) calendar days or longer if deemed advisable by the Doctor or Commission.

1.11.43 "No Decision" and "No Contest" mean a combative sports contest or Exhibition ending with no decision being rendered by the judge(s) or no scores having been maintained or recorded and no winner or loser otherwise determined by any person. A No Decision or No Contest may be officially reported using the abbreviation "NC."

1.11.44 "Official" means any individual who performs an official function during or related in any way to an Event including but not limited to Announcers, Commissioners, Doctors, Inspectors, Judges, Referees, and Timekeepers.

1.11.45 "Person" means a Female, Male or legal entity, as the case may be or context may indicate.

1.11.46 "Professional" means a Person who is at least eighteen (18) years of age. Provided however, the term Professional does not include the following (i) A person who claims to be an Amateur and meets the definition of an Amateur; (ii) A person who solely competes in Amateur Events or Elimination Tournaments.

1.11.47 "Professional Event" means an Event in which at least one of the Contestants is a Professional; however, Professional Event does not include Elimination Contests.

1.11.48 "Promoter" means any person or other legal entity or organization, and in the case of a legal entity includes any officer, manager, director and employee thereof, who is responsible for or actually arranges, organizes, produces, sponsors or stages any Event.

1.11.49 "Purse" means any form of payment or other remuneration provided to a person or entity, directly or indirectly, in exchange for or related in any way to a Contestant's participation in a combative sports activity including, without limitation, reimbursement for expenses and travel, as well as, any amount paid, directly or indirectly, from or related to broadcast, Internet, media, radio, television, and cable rights.

1.11.50 "Referee" means the person at an Event who is or will be inside the ring or other competition area and is in charge of enforcing these Rules and the other rules relevant to the bouts or heats during an Event.

1.11.51 "Rule" means any rule or regulation promulgated or adopted by the Arkansas Athletic Commission from time to time.

1.11.52 "Sanctioning Body" is a sport governing body which can have a variety of functions, one of which would be to maintain a list of division/regional champions, issuance of disciplinary action for rule infractions and deciding on rule changes that can be used within the State of Arkansas for the sport the Body governs.

1.11.53 "Second" means any person aiding, assisting, or advising a Contestant during an Event.

1.11.54 "Split Decision" means a combative sports contest ending with one Contestant scored as the winner by the majority of the judges. A Split Decision may be officially reported using the abbreviation "SD."

1.11.55 "Standing Eight Count" means a count of eight (8) given at the referee's discretion to a Contestant who has not suffered a Knock-down in the moments preceding the referee beginning the count.

1.11.56 "Submission" means a combative sports contest ending by the Referee stopping the contest during the Contestant's execution and continuous application of a legal hold or mixed martial technique from which a Contestant's opponent cannot work free and which poses imminent risk of either loss of consciousness or serious physical injury. A Submission may be officially reported using the abbreviation "TKO," if due to strikes, or "Submission" and should generally be also notated with the method or technique resulting in the Submission.

1.11.57 "Tapout" or "Tap Out" means a combative sports contest ending by the Contestant verbally indicating or physically tapping or patting either the contest area floor or any part the opponent's body in an effort to signal the Referee that Contestant no longer wishes to continue participating in the contest. A Tapout may be officially reported using the abbreviation "TKO," if due to strikes, or "Submission."

1.11.58 "Technical Knockout" means a combative sports contest ending with

(i) Contestant or Contestant's Second making a verbal or physical request to the Referee for an immediate end to the contest;

(ii) Contestant refusing to continue participating in the contest; or

(iii) The Referee ending the contest due to the Referee's determination the Contestant is either unfit to continue the contest or is unable to safely and intelligently defend against an attack by the Contestant's opponent. A Technical Knockout may be officially reported using the abbreviation "TKO."

1.11.59 "Ten Count" means a count of ten (10) given by the Referee to a Contestant who has suffered a Knock-down. A Ten Count starts at the time the Contestant is Down and shall continue to the count of ten (10), unless the Contestant returns to a nonDown position and is in the opinion of the Referee fit to continue the bout before the Referee reaches the count of ten (10). Each count one (1) through ten (10) should be approximately one (1) second in length but may be fractionally longer or shorter depending on the Referee and circumstances.

1.11.60 "10 Point Must System" means a system of scoring whereby the winner of each round must receive ten (10) points, while the loser of the round receives nine (9) points, eight (8) points if knocked down once or clearly and thoroughly dominated by the opponent without being knocked down, seven (7) points if knocked down more than once and thoroughly dominated by the opponent. A Contestant may not receive less than seven (7) points in a round, unless the reason for receiving less than seven (7) points is due to the deduction of a point or point(s). If there is no clear winner of the round or the Judge scores the round evenly, each Contestant will be awarded ten (10) points. Although a Contestant may win the round, a point deduction for the commission of a foul may result in less than ten (10) points being awarded to that Contestant. No fractions of a point shall be awarded to or deducted from any Contestant. The winner of each round should be the Contestant delivering or displaying, as legally permitted under the rules applicable to the combative sport, any combination of the most clean or effective punches/strikes/legal holds/take downs, effective aggressiveness, effective defense, and good ring generalship.

1.11.61 "Timekeeper" means the person responsible for keeping the official time for each round or heat, intervals between rounds or heats, and all counts after a Contestant is Down during an Event.

1.11.62 "Technical Zone" A restricted area extending perpendicular from all points from the edge of the ring apron, cage or out of bounds line on any surface upon which an event or competition takes place. In case of prior cited problems in a particular venue or with a promoter, ASAC can require up to ten (10) feet for the Technical Zone.

1.11.63 "Twenty Count" means a count of twenty (20) given by the Referee to a Contestant who has, as a result of actions which do not violate these Rules or the rules of the contest, been knocked through or has otherwise fallen through the ropes during a contest. A Twenty Count starts at the time the Contestant is Down and shall continue to the count of twenty (20), unless the Contestant returns unassisted to a non- Down position inside the Ring and is in the opinion of the Referee fit to continue the bout before the Referee reaches the count of twenty (20). Each count one (1) through twenty (20) should be approximately one (1) second in length but may be fractionally longer or shorter depending on the Referee and circumstances.

1.11.64 "Unanimous Decision" means a combative sports contest ending with one Contestant scored as the winner by all judge(s). A Unanimous Decision may be officially reported using the abbreviation "UD."

1.12License Fees: The following non-refundable, non-prorated fees shall be required and remitted to the Commission with each application for a license as follows:

1.12.1 Announcer - $20.00

1.12.2 Contestant - $20.00

1.12.3 Doctor - NO FEE

1.12.4 Event Coordinator - $100.00

1.12.5 Event Permit License - $50.00

1.12.6 Federal Boxing ID - $20.00

1.12.7 Inspector - NO FEE

1.12.8 Judge - $15.00

1.12.9 Manager - $50.00

1.12.10 Matchmaker - $100.00

1.12.11 National Mixed Martial Arts ID - $20.00

1.12.12 Promoter - $100.00

1.12.13 Referee - $25.00

1.12.14 Second - $15.00

1.12.15 Timekeeper - $15.00

1.13Medical and Age Requirements for Licensure.

1.13.1 No contestant will be licensed or participate as a contestant in any event under these rules without the following blood work for HIV 1 & 2, Hepatitis BsAg, and Hepatitis C. Blood work is considered valid for 6 months. Blood work results are only accepted from the original source (laboratory or medical provider) or approved commissions and results sent directly to the Arkansas Athletic Commission. The Arkansas Athletic Commission must have received the bloodwork at least ten (10) days prior to an Event. The cost of the testing shall be borne by the contestant. The Commission in its discretion may allow submission until the event in individual cases upon showing of good cause.

1.13.2 No contestant age forty (40) and above will be licensed or participate in any event or bout as a contestant under these rules, with the exception of USA Boxing sanctioned and regulated events, without a comprehensive physical exam by a physician to include an EKG test and dilated eye exam by applicable licensed medical professional. The costs of the exam and tests shall be borne by the contestant and be considered good until the expiration date of the contestant's license. The Arkansas Athletic Commission must receive the results of the physical exam on a form specified by the Commission at least ten (10) days prior to an Event. The Commission in its discretion may allow submission until the event in individual cases upon showing of good cause.

1.13.3 In addition to, or in lieu of the requirements of 1.13.2, a contestant age forty (40) and above may be required by the Commission to provide satisfactory documentation of MRI of the head, stress test by cardiologist and a dilated eye exam by applicable licensed medical professional. These additional requirements are in the sole discretion of the Commission and shall be based upon criteria including, but not limited to, whether the contestant is an amateur or professional, the contestant's number of lifetime events or bouts, win-loss record, number of KO's or TKO's, and recentness of any KO's or TKO's. The cost of these tests or physicals will be borne by the contestant and be considered good until the expiration date of the contestant's license. The Arkansas Athletic Commission must have received medical documentation of any required tests or physicals at least ten (10) days prior to an Event. The Commission in its discretion may allow submission until the event in individual cases upon showing of good cause.

1.13.4 The age difference between a contestant age forty (40) above and his opponent shall be no more than ten (10) years older or ten (10) years younger. However, in no case shall a contestant age 40 and above compete against an opponent under age thirty-five (35). The Commission in its discretion may waive this rule upon good cause shown.

1.14Uniformed Service Members, Veterans, and Spouses Licensure.

1.14.1 As used in this subsection, "uniformed service veteran" means a former member of the United States Uniformed Services discharged under circumstances other than dishonorable.

1.14.2 The Board shall grant expedited licensure to an individual who is the holder in good standing of a license with a similar scope of practice issued by another state, territory, or district of the U. S. and is:

1.14.2.1 A uniformed service member stationed in the State of Arkansas;

1.14.2.2 A uniformed service veteran who resides in or establishes residency in t the State of Arkansas; or

1.14.2.3 The spouse of:

1.14.2.3.1 A person under 1.14.2.1 or 1.14.2.2 above;

1.14.2.3.2 A uniformed service member who is assigned a tour of duty that excludes the uniformed service member's spouse from accompanying the uniformed service member and the spouse relocates to this state; or

1.14.2.3.3 A uniformed service member who is killed or succumbs to his or her injuries or illness in the line of duty if the spouse establishes residency in the state.

1.14.3 The Commission shall grant an expedited license process upon receipt of all the below:

1.14.3.1 Payment of the initial licensure fee;

1.14.3.2 Evidence that the individual holds a license with a similar scope of practice in another state; and

1.14.3.3 Evidence that the applicant is a qualified applicant under 1.14.2.

1.14.4 The expiration date of a license for a deployed uniformed service member or spouse will be extended for one hundred and eighty (180) days following the date of the uniformed service member's return from deployment.

1.15Licensure Prohibiting Criminal Offenses.

1.15.1 An individual may not be eligible to receive or hold a license issued by the Commission if that individual has pleaded guilty or nolo contendere to or been found guilty of any of the offenses detailed in Arkansas Code § 17-3-102 et. seq. by any court in the State of Arkansas, or of any similar offense by a court in another state, or of any similar offense by a federal court, unless the conviction was lawfully sealed under the Comprehensive Criminal Record Sealing Act of 2013, Arkansas Code § 16-90-1401 et. seq. or otherwise sealed pardoned or expunged under prior law.

1.15.2 The Commission may grant a waiver as authorized by Arkansas Code § 17-3-102 in certain circumstances. Because of the time-sensitive nature of waiver requests, the Commission designates the Chair to grant waivers in between meetings of the Commission. If the Chair is unavailable, the Co-Chair. If the Co-Chair is unavailable, any available Commissioner may grant a waiver.

1.15.3 The Commission is not authorized to conduct criminal background checks but may inquire about criminal convictions upon application or renewal of a license. Any applicant or licensee which provides false information to the Board regarding a criminal conviction may be subject to suspension, revocation or denial of a license.

1.15.4 A request for a waiver must be made in writing by an applicant for licensure or renewal at a minimum of ten (10) days before a scheduled event.

1.15.5 Notwithstanding any other rule, the Commission shall not license a person who at the time of application is a registered sex offender designated as Level 2 or higher on the Arkansas Sex Offender Registry pursuant to Arkansas Code § 17-22-302(c).

1.16Workforce Expansion Act fee waiver

1.16.1 The Commission shall waive the initial licensing fee if the applicant:

1.16.1.1 Is receiving assistance through the Arkansas Medicaid Program; the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program; the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children; the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Program; or the Lifeline Assistance Program;

1.16.1.2 Was approved for unemployment within the last twelve (12) months; or

1.16.1.3 Has an income that does not exceed two hundred percent (200%) of the federal poverty income guidelines.

1.16.2 The term "initial licensing fee" does not include fees for other than initial licensing. It does not include licensing fees following the first or initial time in which an applicant receives a license by the Commission.

CHAPTER 2- GENERAL RULES FOR BOXING, KICKBOXING, MARTIAL ARTS, MIXED MARTIAL ARTS, MUAY THAI, & ELIMINATION TOURNAMENT

2.1 All Rules in this Chapter and Chapter 1 of these apply to the combative sport of Boxing, Kickboxing, Martial Arts, Mixed Martial Arts, Muay Thai, and Elimination Tournaments; provided however, in the event of a conflict between this Chapter and Chapter 1, the Rules in this Chapter prevail.

2.2Prohibited Substances. The use or administration of Drugs, stimulants, depressants, prescription, non-prescription or any other substances by or to a Contestant during or prior to participation in an Event is prohibited, except as follows or as otherwise permitted by these Rules:

2.2.1 All ice used during a contest shall be in an enclosed or sealed container.

2.2.2 Electrolyte drinks or water may be administered to a Contestant during a contest; provided however, if an electrolyte drink is to be administered during a contest, a Second or Contestant shall have the Commission or Inspector examine and approve such electrolyte drink and its container prior to use. The Commission or Inspector retains sole discretion to approve or disallow any electrolyte drink.

2.2.3 Discretionary and limited use of petroleum jelly shall be allowed immediately prior to and during a contest only on the Contestant's facial area extending to the lower ear lobes and shall not be used on any other part of the Contestant. The excessive use of petroleum jelly is strictly prohibited, and the referee shall direct removal of any excessive petroleum jelly.

2.2.4 The ringside Doctor shall monitor the use and application of any foreign substances administered to a Contestant before or during a contest. The chief second shall surrender, immediately upon request, to the Commission or the Doctor any substance for laboratory analysis. The Commission or Inspector may inspect, at any time, any bags, substances or materials brought into the corner during a Contest.

2.2.5 In case of a cut, the topical use only of the following is allowed, each to be in their original container which is clearly labeled in accordance with United States Food and Drug Administration and Drug Enforcement Agency regulations:

2.2.5.1 A solution of adrenaline 1/1000 concentration;

2.2.5.2 Avitene/Microfibril/Collagen Hemostat; and

2.2.5.3 Thrombin or its generic form when available.

2.3Licensure. Every Contestant, Doctor, Event Coordinator, Inspector, Judge, Manager, Matchmaker, Promoter, Referee, Second, Timekeeper, or Official, unless exempted by these Rules, is required to apply for and receive a license from the Commission before participating or engaging in an activity related in any way to an Event or the licensed activity.

2.3.1 Applicant shall complete and submit an application approved or provided by the Commission.

2.3.2 Each applicant shall be familiar with the Arkansas Combative Sports Law and these Rules.

2.3.3 Before issuing or denying any license, the Commission may examine the applicant or other witnesses and request any and all information the Commission deems relevant to the application.

2.3.4 Each applicant for a Contestant's professional boxing license shall simultaneously apply for or currently possess a valid Federal Boxing ID.

2.3.5 Each applicant shall provide the Commission with his or her legal name, as maintained by the Social Security Administration and Internal Revenue Service of the United States of America or such similar governmental agency for the country of the applicant's residence.

2.3.6 Each applicant shall provide at least one (1) government issued form of identification bearing both applicant's photograph and legal name and one (1) form of government issued identification proving the applicant's age.

2.3.7 Each applicant shall provide the Commission with the physical address of his or her residence and notify the Commission of any change in the same.

2.3.8 Each applicant and person licensed under these Rules shall use the same name, which shall be his or her legal name, in connection with each Event; provided however, Contestants shall not be prohibited from also using a "ring name" or "alias" in promotional materials and when being announced prior to a bout or Event.

2.3.9 Each licensee whose license is lost, stolen, or cannot otherwise be produced upon request shall apply and pay for a new duplicate license from the Commission.

2.3.10 No license issued under these Rules is transferable to another person.

2.3.11 The Commission may deny, revoke or suspend any license for good cause.

2.3.12 The Commission may reject any applications submitted without the required licensing fee and all information required by the Commission.

2.3.13 In addition to all other requirements, each applicant and person licensed under these Rules shall, at any time requested by the Commission, Designated employee(s), Inspector, or Doctor, submit to a test of breath and/or body fluids for the presence of any alcohol, Drug, Hepatitis A, B or C, or HIV. The Commission shall pay for all costs associated with a test required under this subpart. The applicant or licensee shall pay all costs associated with tests required for initial licensure or renewal of a license and shall reimburse the Commission for all positive tests and tests indicating a violation of these Rules. A positive test for the presence of alcohol, Drugs or infectious diseases or the refusal of a licensee to immediately submit to a test shall result in an immediate suspension of the licensee's license with such suspension continuing until a hearing before the Commission for reinstatement. In addition to suspension or revocation of the License, a positive test for alcohol, Drugs or infectious diseases or the refusal of the licensee to submit to testing may also result in the imposition of a monetary fine. Prior to reinstatement following a violation of this subpart, the Licensee shall submit to a test for the presence of alcohol, Drugs or infectious diseases, the results of which shall be negative. World Anti-Doping Agency list of banned substances for combative sports will be the same list used by ASAC.

2.3.14 Unless and until Arkansas Code § 17-22-302(d), which requires all licenses issued by the Commission to expire on June 30 of each year, is repealed, amended or otherwise permits the Commission to set an alternate expiration date for its licenses, all licenses issued by the Commission shall expire on June 30 of each year; provided however, if the Commission is permitted by the Act to establish its own expiration date for licenses issued by the Commission, then such licenses shall expire one (1) year from the date of issuance or as otherwise determined or established by the Commission at the time of issuance.

2.3.15 If available through the Commission's website or through other approved electronic means designated by the Commission, applications may be submitted via web- based or electronic means and may be subject to credit card, debit card or other processing fees in addition to the licensing fees.

2.4Event License. Promoters are subject to these Rules including, without limitation, any Amateur Event not exempted from these Rules shall submit a written application for and receive an Event License prior to each Event as follows:

2.4.1 Each application shall be on a form established by the Commission or if no form is established, then with such information as the Commission may require;

2.4.2 Each application shall be submitted with a non-refundable application fee of fifty dollars ($50.00) for each Event Permit Fee.

2.4.3 Each application shall be submitted at least thirty (30) days prior to the proposed Event date;

2.4.4 Each application may apply for only one (1) Event License; however, each application may provide for alternate Event dates not more than ninety (90) days following the first proposed Event date;

2.4.5 Each application shall be directed to the Designated employee(s);

2.4.6 Each application shall be simultaneously submitted with:

2.4.6.1 Proof of financial responsibility by submitting a surety bond of at twenty thousand dollars ($20,000) written by a bonding company or other Commission approved corporate surety authorized to do business in the State of Arkansas guaranteeing payment of all obligations, including without limitation gross receipts taxes, arising out of the Event, with such bond or bonds being of such type that a claim may be made thereupon, if such claim is filed with ASAC no later than ninety (90) days after the Event. Bonds may be issued for as long as one year, but in no case valid for less than ninety (90) days. Provided, however, the amount of the bond required hereunder may be increased by the Commission or Designated employee(s) on an Event by Event basis when seating capacity of the venue exceed one thousand (1,000) seats.

2.4.6.2 In lieu of the required surety bonds, cash, certificates of deposit, irrevocable letters of credit, or other security acceptable to the Commission, which alternate security shall be retained by the Commission for a minimum of one hundred eighty (180) days after the Event for which the Commission issued the Event License. If no claim, written or verbal, is submitted to the Commission before the one hundred eightieth (180th) day following the Event for which the Commission issued the Event License, then the Commission shall return the alternate security to the Promoter or other person posting the alternate security. The Commission shall not return the alternate security until any and all claims filed before the one hundred eightieth (180^th) are resolved by the Commission.

2.4.7 An application shall be rejected if the granting of such application would result in the Promoter having more than six (6) Events simultaneously approved by the Commission. The exception that a licensed, bonded promoter may have up to two annual shows permitted in addition. If a promoter has more than two annual shows and wishes to have them licensed simultaneously, then all events over the two annual shows shall be included in the total of six (6) listed above; and

2.4.8 An application shall be rejected if, within the twelve (12) months preceding the application date, the Promoter has without good cause (insufficient ticket sales shall never be considered good cause) cancelled two (2) or more approved Events.

2.4.9 Unless otherwise permitted under these Rules, Events shall not take place over more than one (1) day.

2.5Event Procedures. The following shall be applicable to every Event:

2.5.1 Audit & Taxes. The provisions of the Act shall be followed with respect to remittance of taxes to the Commission and such shall be subject to audit by the Commission at any time.

2.5.2 Bouts, Heats & Rounds. Each Event shall consist of a minimum of twenty-four (24) scheduled rounds and a maximum of seventy-two (72) scheduled rounds.

2.5.2.1 Non-championship and non-title bout(s), which are not an Exhibition, shall be neither less than four (4) scheduled rounds nor more than ten (10) scheduled rounds. Championship or title bouts shall be neither less than eight (8) scheduled rounds nor more than twelve (12) scheduled rounds. The number of rounds approved for each bout will be determined by the past experience of the Contestants.

2.5.2.2 The duration of each round shall be three (3) minutes with a one (1) minute rest period between each round.; provided however, each bout or contest between two (2) female Contestants may, but is not required to, have rounds of two (2) minutes in duration with a one (1) minute rest period between each round.

2.5.2.3 A boxing bout shall end only by Disqualification, Draw, Knockout, Majority Decision, Majority Draw, No Decision, No Contest, Split Decision, Technical Knockout or Unanimous Decision or Referee Stoppage, or in MMA, it may also end upon Doctor stoppage or tap out.

2.5.3 Credentials & Tickets. No person, excluding Contestants, Seconds and Officials, shall be admitted to any Event without a ticket or credential issued and documented by the Promoter. No credential may be sold, exchanged or bartered and a manifest for all credentials, including the name of the person to whom the credential was issued and the reason, must be maintained and produced for the Commission at each Event upon request by the Commission, made at a reasonable time the day of the event.

2.5.3.1 All credentials shall be clearly designated by the Promoter as required by these Rules and the Commission.

2.5.3.2 Promoters are prohibited from accepting cash or other remuneration or consideration for admission to an Event without issuance of a ticket reflecting the price paid therefor.

2.5.3.3 All tickets shall reflect the price thereof and Event date.

2.5.3.4 All tickets shall be consecutively numbered, individually bar coded or otherwise numbered in a manner easily grouped, counted and identifiable by the Commission.

2.5.3.5 All tickets shall have a stub indicating the price and row or seat number, which shall be detached and retained for later auditing and accounting by the Commission, or bar code scanned and records thereof maintained in a Commission approved manner and a ticket manifest or similar record shall be produced upon request.

2.5.3.6 All tickets shall have a coupon or portion thereof which may be retained by the purchaser thereof.

2.5.3.7 All ticket stubs, except electronically redeemed tickets, must be deposited into a locked container at the Event entrance(s). Each ticket container must remain in the possession of the ticket-taker until after the close of the Event and only be surrendered by the said ticket-taker in the presence of the promoter or Inspector. The Inspector may, at his discretion, require the ticket box be opened only in his presence. If the Inspector deems necessary, all admission ticket stubs shall, immediately after the ticket container is opened, be sorted by price and counted by the Commission, the Inspector, or by a person authorized by the Inspector.

2.5.3.8 Unless otherwise designated by the Promoter to have a higher value and for purposes of calculating the gross receipts tax, complimentary, give away or promotional Event tickets representing five percent (5%) or less of the Event tickets sold shall be exempted from the gross receipts tax; complimentary, give away or promotional Event tickets representing greater than five percent (5%) and not more than ten percent (10%) of the Event tickets sold shall have the same value as the least expensive five percent (5%) of Event tickets sold; and complimentary, give away or promotional Event tickets exceeding ten percent (10%) of the total Event tickets sold shall have the same value as the highest priced Event ticket sold. The Commission reserves the right to tax all complimentary tickets at the value of the highest priced Event ticket if the Commission deems the Promoter implements or utilizes a scheme or ticketing process which attempts to or actually evades taxes under the Act or these Rules, after a Reprimand has been made against the promoter.

2.5.3.9 If a promoter offers for sale, exchange, or barter, premium or exclusive seating including, but not limited to, tables or couches, the promoter must declare the total fair-market value of such seating and provide an invoice, manifest, or other record of such sale, exchange, or barter. If such premium or exclusive seating is sold, exchanged, or bartered as part of a larger transaction e.g., advertising or sponsorship packages, the fair market value shall not be declared as less than the least value in dollars for the premium or exclusive seating if such seating for the event has been the sole the subject of a sale, exchange, or barter. The promoter's declared fair market value will be used when calculating gross receipts.

2.5.4 Event Compensation. In order to receive compensation hereunder, the person must have attended the Event for official Commission business at the specific request of or assignment by the Designated employee(s), Chairman or duly authorized Member. At such time as ASAC has certified training open to officials and assigns officials to an Event, compensation for the Officials can be established by ASAC. Until such time the Promoter can negotiate such rates directly with officials. Said officials must be approved by ASAC. The following fees may be increased or decreased from time to time by the Commission. In addition to any other sum to which the following persons may be entitled under these Rules and by agreement with the Promoter, the following persons shall receive compensation for attendance and performance of their duties at an Event as follows with such sums to be paid directly to the following by the Promoter through remittance of cash, certified check, cashier's check, or other check or order for immediately available funds to the Commission Official in charge of the Event prior to the beginning of each Event. Such Commission Official shall distribute the sum to the following persons immediately after conclusion of the Event, with the exception that the Inspector Fee must be paid by the promoter to the State and a warrant/direct deposit for payment by ASAC will be issued to the Inspector.

2.5.4.1 Announcer - Negotiable

2.5.4.2 Inspector/Supervising Commission Official - $100 per day of Event (All event days at which an Inspector serves will be charged to the Promoter).

2.5.4.3 Referee - Negotiable

2.5.4.4 Judge - Negotiable

2.5.4.5 Doctor - Negotiable

2.5.4.6 Timekeeper - Negotiable

2.5.5 Officials. The Promoter shall be responsible for selecting and obtaining the Officials, except the Inspectors and Commission Representatives who will be assigned solely by the Commission. At such time, after holding ABC Certified Referee and Training within the State, twelve months after such training, professional referees and judges shall must be certified in order to officiate. All Officials are subject to Commission approval and the Commission or Designated employee(s) may disallow or re-assign any Official or otherwise require Promoter to use only the Officials appointed by the Commission or Designated employee(s). The minimum Officials required for each Event are:

2.5.5.1 One (1) Announcer;

2.5.5.2 One (1) Commission Representative;

2.5.5.3 One (1) Doctor;

2.5.5.4 One (1) Inspector;

2.5.5.5 Three (3) Judges;

2.5.5.6 One (1) Referee; and

2.5.5.7 One (1) Timekeeper.

2.6Rings, Mats & Contest Areas. The ring shall:

2.6.1 Not be less than sixteen (16) feet square;

2.6.2 Have an apron or floor area outside the ropes which extends at least two (2) feet beyond the ropes on all sides; variances can be granted;

2.6.3 Have a floor area, both inside and outside the ropes, padded with ensolite or other similar closed-cell foam of at least one (1) inch thickness and approved by the Commission;

2.6.4 Have a top covering made of canvas or similar material tightly stretched and laced to the ring platform;

2.6.5 Not have a floor covering consisting of a material which tends to gather in lumps or ridges;

2.6.6 Not be more than five (5) feet above the ground, unless previously approved by the Commission;

2.6.7 Have at least two (2) sets of steps for use by Contestants and Officials;

2.6.8 Have posts made of metal not less than three (3) inches in diameter and at least eighteen (18) inches away from the ropes;

2.6.9 Have turnbuckles and corners protected with a urethane pad covered with a material similar to the ring floor covering or plasticized rubber or vinyl;

2.6.10 Have at least four (4) ropes, not less than one inch in diameter and evenly spaced twelve (12) inches apart, with the lower rope being eighteen (18) inches above the ring floor, unless five (5) ropes are used in which case the lowest rope shall be six (6) inches above the ring floor, and all ropes wrapped in soft plasticized rubber, vinyl or cloth material; see specifications under different formats of combative competition.

2.6.11 Have ropes connected to one another using ties constructed of a soft material placed at least every six (6) feet; and

2.6.12 Have sufficient strength and safety in both the floor and support structure to safely hold the actively moving weight of all Contestants, Officials, Seconds and other persons and equipment which may be simultaneously inside the Ring. Liability for structure failure shall fall upon promoter for ASAC evaluation.

2.7Ring Access. Access to the Ring shall be only as follows:

2.7.1 Prior to and immediately following a bout, only the Announcer, Announcer assistant, Authorized Media personnel, promoter, Contestants, Doctor, Inspectors, Commission representatives and persons authorized by the Commission shall be allowed inside the ring or on the ring apron, unless otherwise specified by promoter.

2.7.2 At least one (1) minute before the start of the first round of each bout, only the Announcer, Contestants, Contestants' chief Seconds, and the Referee may be inside the ring and the Referee shall clear the ring of all other individuals.

2.7.3 During a round, only Contestants and the Referee are permitted inside the ring.

2.7.4 In between rounds only Contestants, one Second from each Contestant, Referee and one individual holding a ring card/round indicator are permitted inside the ring.

2.7.5 The Referee and/or Commission may order the ring be cleared of any or all persons at any time, either before, during or after a bout.

2.8Technical Zone. The Technical Zone shall be:

2.8.1 Under the exclusive control of the Commission, Designated employee(s) and Inspectors at each Event;

2.8.2 ASAC can require, following a prior problem with the same issue, that the area be separated from the spectator areas on all sides using a barrier approved in advance by the Commission;

2.8.3 Utilized only by Contestants, Officials, and other properly credentialed individuals;

2.8.4 Clear of all alcoholic beverages, paid spectator seats and non-essential persons;

2.8.5 Protected by Promoter's security or staff personnel from access by anyone other than persons permitted by the Commission, Designated employee(s) or Inspector assigned to the Event, which admitted persons shall be properly credentialed prior to entry; and

2.8.6 A seating and arrangement diagram can be required in advance by ASAC.

2.9Amateur Events. Announcers, Contestants, Doctors, Matchmakers, Officials, Promoters and Seconds for Events or bouts in which all of the Contestants are Amateurs are exempted from these Rules when the Regulatory Body is a federally recognized and International Olympic Committee-contributing organization or provided all of the following conditions are met:

2.9.1 The Event or bout is regulated and sanctioned by and conducted in accordance with all of the rules and regulations of an amateur sanctioning body which are deemed to be at least as stringent as the Rules in effect by ASAC, approved in writing and on file with the Commission at least thirty (30) days in advance of proposed event;

2.9.2 Ensure that at least once prior to the beginning of the first bout and immediately prior to the start of the main event, the statement, "This Event is Sanctioned by the," with such blank being filled in with the name of the approved sanctioning body sanctioning the Event and immediately followed by an announcement of the name of the presiding Commission representative in attendance and the names of the Referee and Judges for the bout;

2.9.3 A Doctor or other Commission approved health care provider will be present at all times during the Event;

2.9.4 The Commission and Inspectors are permitted in the Event without charge for the purpose of checking and insuring compliance with these Rules; and

2.9.5 The Designated employee(s) is provided written notice at least five (5) business days prior to the weigh-in, Event or bout whichever is earlier, and the notice includes:

2.9.5.1 Date, time and location of the Event and weigh-ins;

2.9.5.2 Name and contact information for the organization sanctioning the Event;

2.9.5.3 Name and contact information of the Doctor or other Commission approved health care provider attending the Event; and

2.9.5.4 Names of all the Contestants participating in the Event.

2.10Exhibition Events. All provisions of these Rules shall apply to Exhibitions, except the portions hereof relating to Judges and scoring.

2.11Announcers. All Events must have a licensed Announcer who should:

2.11.1 Announce the names of the Contestants, Contestants' weights, names of Officials, decisions of the Referee and Judges, as well as, provide additional information requested by the Commission or Promoter or of general interest to the spectators;

2.11.2 Ensure that at least once prior to the beginning of the first bout and immediately prior to the start of the main event, the statement, "This Event is Sanctioned by the Arkansas State Athletic Commission," immediately followed by an announcement of the name of the presiding Commission representative in attendance and the names of the Referee and Judges for the bout;

2.11.3 Be familiar with the official possible results of each bout under these Rules and announce the official result, as indicated on the scorecard received from the Commission representative or Inspector, immediately following each bout; and

2.11.4 Immediately return the scorecard to the Commission representative or Inspector after announcing the official result of the bout. All professional bouts shall have the scorecards retrieved after each round and delivered to the Commission representative at ringside.

2.12Contestants. Contestants shall:

2.12.1 Sign all necessary forms and releases and otherwise authorize the Commission and any of its representatives, agents or Inspectors to inquire, receive and discuss Contestant's medical history, medical conditions and test results with any health care provider;

2.12.2 Prior to participating in each Event, submit to and pass a pre-fight physical administered by the Doctor;

2.12.3 If female, submit to and produce a negative pregnancy test within thirty-six (36) hours prior to participating in each Event, with the cost of such pregnancy test being paid solely by the Promoter and the results of which being verified by the Doctor;

2.12.4 Prior to participating in each Event, truthfully complete and submit to the Commission a medical history questionnaire approved by the Commission;

2.12.5 Prior to participating in each Event, secure hair, which is long enough to interfere with vision or safety of either Contestant, with soft and non-abrasive material;

2.12.6 Not use facial cosmetics while participating in an Event;

2.12.7 Not wear any type of body piercing, spectacles, hard contact lenses, dentures, or removable dental work while participating in an Event;

2.12.8 Not wear headgear or any other thing on the head while competing in an Event, unless competing in an Amateur Event or Elimination Tournament;

2.12.9 Wear a fitted mouthpiece during each round;

2.12.10 Wear groin protection or foul protector while participating in an Event; rule is optional for females.

2.12.11 Wear non-transparent shorts, a skirt or other article of clothing below the waist which cover the genitals and groin protection/foul protector while participating in an Event;

2.12.12 If male, not wear a shirt or other article of clothing above the waist while participating in an Event;

2.12.13 If female, wear a non-transparent article of clothing which hides at least the areolae of the breasts while participating in the Event and which is not reasonably anticipated to, during normal contest activities, become dislodged, transparent or otherwise not continuously hide the areolae of the breasts while participating in an Event;

2.12.14 Remain at the Event and submit to an evaluation by the Doctor immediately following Contestant's bout and prior to receiving the Purse;

2.12.15 Be given a mandatory rest period/suspension of a minimum of seven (7) days, which period shall be longer if recommended by the Doctor, following their participation in an Event and shall not be permitted to participate in an Event if they have competed in Arkansas or another jurisdiction at any time within the seven (7) days prior to an Event; Seven (7) days shall be counted from Saturday to Saturday.

2.12.16 Be given a minimum sixty (60) day Suspension following Contestant's loss by Knockout or minimum thirty (30) day suspension following a loss by Technical Knockout.

2.12.17 If Contestant's last five (5) consecutive bouts within a twelve (12) month period were losses via Knockout or Technical Knockout, not be granted a license or shall have a license indefinitely suspended until submission of a recent computed axial tomography scan and certification by a board certified Doctor, specializing in neurology, that Contestant is fit to participate in a Combative Sport;

2.12.18 Be allowed no more than two (2) Seconds in the corner during a contest, one of whom shall be designated the chief Second if the event is MMA; be allowed no more than four (4) Seconds in the corner during a contest, one of who shall be designated a 'cut man' if the event is professional boxing;

2.12.19 If gloves are required to be worn during participation in the combative sport in which the Contestant is participating, wear gloves of the same weight as their opponent, with such glove weight being the weight required to be worn by the heavier Contestant;

2.12.20 If gloves are required to be worn or hands required to be wrapped or covered during participation in the combative sport in which the Contestant is participating, Contestant must obtain an inspection by an Inspector and certification of inspection prior to participating in the contest;

2.12.21 Upon demand by the Commission or Inspector, produce for inspection the Handwraps, if any, used by the Contestant in the contest;

2.12.22 Enter the ring or cage within five (5) minutes following the announcement of their name by the Announcer;

2.12.23 Not violate any contract or breach any agreement relating to participation in an Event; and

2.12.24 If the Doctor recommends the Contestant be transported to the hospital and Contestant refuses, then remain onsite and be examined by the Doctor at least once more between thirty (30) and forty-five (45) minutes after first refusing transport to the hospital and then remain onsite and continue to be observed by the Doctor as long as recommended by the Doctor. If the Contestant is asked by the doctor to return and does not, Contestant shall be suspended for a minimum of thirty (30) days or more upon request of the physician.

2.13Doctors. Doctors shall:

2.13.1 At least two (2) hours, but not more than up to seven (7) hours prior to the scheduled start of the first bout for each Event to which they are assigned or are otherwise participating, administer a pre-fight physical for each Contestant, which physical consists of the following:

2.13.1.1 Review of Contestants' answers to medical questions on the pre-fight Commission forms;

2.13.1.2 Visually testing and observation for contagious or potentially contagious skin, eye, ear, nose or throat borne infections, contagions or other diseases including, without limitation, those associated with the scientific family staphylococci or any form of conjunctivitis or trachoma, any of which, in the Doctor's sole opinion, represent a health risk to the Contestant or Contestant's opponent or may be transmitted or worsened through participation in an Event;

2.13.1.3 Blood pressure and pulse;

2.13.1.4 Visual observation of head, eyes with a focus on proper dilation and movement, ears, nose and throat;

2.13.1.5 Audible observation of lungs and heartbeat; and

2.13.1.6 Physical examination of abdomen and orthopedic focusing on joints.

2.13.2 Record the results of each Contestant's pre-fight physical on a form provided by the Commission and sign an attestation that such Contestant is in satisfactory physical condition to compete in the Event or if Contestant is unfit to compete in the Event, prohibit the Contestant from competing and notify the Inspector and Commission of the condition(s) preventing the Contestant from competing in the Event.

2.13.3 Sit near the entrance to the ring or cage and not leave ringside after the beginning of the first bout, except during intermissions, until after checking the last Contestant following the announcement of the decision in the final bout of an Event.

2.13.4 Immediately enter the ring or cage and attend to any Contestant who loses by Knockout, or Technical Knockout.

2.13.5 Enter the ring or cage and make a recommendation to the Referee as to a Contestant's fitness to continue upon Referee's request for such opinion.

2.13.6 Perform post-bout medical evaluations of all Contestants and complete the Commission provided forms for the post-bout evaluations.

2.13.7 Conduct a post-bout examination including a recommendation for rest periods and medical disqualifications exceeding the mandatory suspensions provided for by these Rules, if deemed necessary.

2.13.8 Following each post-bout examination or at any time during an Event, express their professional medical opinion as to whether a Contestant should go to a hospital for further treatment or observation and if so recommended, direct the onsite emergency medical personnel to immediately perform such transport.

2.14Event Coordinators. At the discretion and under the direction and control of the Promoter and if licensed by ASAC, may in connection with an Event perform, negotiate, obtain or assist with setup for any of the following:

2.14.1 Event Site or Event Site rental;

2.14.2 Required equipment or supplies;

2.14.3 Concessions;

2.14.4 Advertising or marketing;

2.14.5 Media coverage of the Event;

2.14.6 Ticketing;

2.14.7 Event staff;

2.14.8 Security;

2.14.9 Officials; and

2.14.10 Doctor, ambulance and onsite paramedics or medical personnel.

2.15Inspectors. The Commission may be represented in person by Commission member(s) and duly appointed Inspector(s) at any Event for the purpose of supervising, enforcing and ensuring compliance with the Law and these Rules. Inspectors shall not have any direct or indirect financial interest in or familial connection with any Contestant participating in any Event to which they have been assigned. Appointment of Inspectors shall be at the discretion and instruction of the Commission or Designated employee(s). The Commission or Designated employee(s) may waive the Inspector's fee required by these Rules. The Inspector shall perform any duties as assigned, from time to time by the Commission or Designated employee(s). Before and during an Event to which the Inspector has been assigned, the Inspector shall:

2.15.1 Check all persons in attendance and participating in the Event for the appropriate credentials and Commission Licenses;

2.15.2 Be present, if required by the Commission or Designated employee(s), at the weighins to supervise the same and ensure completion of the required forms and compliance with these Rules;

2.15.3 Ensure compliance with these Rules by inspecting all Contestants, Contestants' hand wraps, contestants' equipment, and seconds' equipment and materials prior the beginning of a contest;

2.15.4 Certify compliance with these Rules by signing, in a manner and using a device directed by the Commission or Designated employee(s) when available, each Contestant's Handwraps and equipment/gloves prior to each Contestant's participation in a contest;

2.15.5 Inspect each Contestant's gloves prior to the start of each bout or contest, to insure no foreign or prohibited substances have been applied to the Contestant or gloves;

2.15.6 Ensure compliance with these Rules by observing the conduct of Contestants, Officials, Seconds, any other licensed persons or persons subject to regulation under the Act or these Rules; and

2.15.7 Complete all other forms and reports and tests required by the Commission.

2.16Judges. If a Judge becomes incapacitated and is unable to complete the scoring of a contest, a timeout shall be called and an alternate, qualified Judge shall be immediately assigned to score the contest from that point. If the Judge's incapacity is not noticed during a round or if an alternate Judge cannot be immediately assigned, the Referee shall score the round(s). The Judge assigned to each Event shall:

2.16.1 Have no direct or indirect financial interest or familial relationship to any Contestant participating in a contest being scored by the Judge;

2.16.2 Sit on a high stool if possible or other appropriate seating between the ring or cage posts, not on the same side as another judge, with a clear view of the Contestants competing during the bout;

2.16.3 Remained focused on the contest and score, on Commission provided scorecards, each round of each bout using the 10 Point Must System;

2.16.4 Sign each scorecard per round and ensure the same is provided to the Commissioner or Inspector at ringside by submitting the same to the Referee after each round and the contest's end, even if by TKO or KO;

2.16.5 Be specifically trained or have experience in the combative sport for which they desire to be a licensed Judge; and

2.16.6 Pass any written or verbal test, which may be required by the Commission, covering the Act, these Rules and the rules of the combative sport to be scored by the Judge.

2.17Managers. Managers shall:

2.17.1 Have a fiduciary obligation to deal fairly with and act in the best interests of the Contestant(s) they represent;

2.17.2 Ensure the Contestant(s) they represent observe and comply with the suspensions issued by the Commission;

2.17.3 Ensure the Contestant(s) they represent comply with the Act and these Rules; and

2.17.4 If in attendance at an Event where a Contestant is both competing and represented by the Manager, must attend the instructions and rules meeting prior to the contest.

2.18Matchmakers. Matchmakers shall:

2.18.1 Contact, solicit or negotiate a Contestant for the purpose of obtaining the Contestant's participation in or attempting to obtain the Contestant's participation in an Event;

2.18.2 Match the Contestants as to weight and experience in a manner consistent with these Rules;

2.18.3 Cooperate with and obey the instructions of the Inspector during the Event;

2.18.4 Be licensed by Commission, even if Matchmaker is hired/employed by the Promoter and be jointly responsible along with Promoter for matches made and compliance with the Act and these Rules; and

2.18.5 If a designated matchmaker is in charge of making matches, then both the promoter and matchmaker will be subject to disciplinary action by the Commission for failure to exercise objective and subjective good judgment in the arrangement or pairing of a match, whether the person knew or should have known one Contestant was substantially outclassed by the opponent.

2.19Officials. The Officials for each Event shall:

2.19.1 Be licensed in accordance with these Rules;

2.19.2 Have specific training or a fundamental understanding of the rules governing the Event which they officiate;

2.19.3 Not simultaneously participate in multiple licensed capacities at an Event which they officiate except for the positions of referee who may substitute for a judge;

2.19.4 Not act as or otherwise be a Contestant, Event Coordinator, Manager, Matchmaker, Promoter or Second at, for or in connection with any Event in which they also act as an Official. In order for a Promoter or Event Coordinator or Matchmaker to act as a corner, permission must be obtained from the opposing camp.

2.20Promoters. A Promoter shall as a condition of licensure or continued licensure:

2.20.1 At all times comply with the Act, these Rules, and the instructions and directives of the Commission, Committee, Designated Employee(s) and Inspector(s) assigned to the Event.

2.20.1.1 Simultaneously with submission of the Promoter's license application, submit to the Commission proof of having reached the age of twenty-one (21) years or in the case of a legal entity, be owned, operated and controlled by no individual less than twenty-one (21) years of age, and said entity shall sign an affidavit stating that entity has read the Act and the Rules and understands them, prior to issuance of a Promoter's license.

2.20.2 At least ten (10) days prior to an Event, provide the following to the Commission at Promoter's sole expense:

2.20.2.1 Proof of payment of premiums for and a Certificate of Coverage evidencing medical, surgical and hospital care insurance covering each Contestant during the Event, with a deductible of no more than $1000, with such insurance having a minimum limit of $10,000 per Contestant for injuries sustained while participating in a contest and $10,000 per Contestant's estate if the Contestant's death results from injuries received while participating in a contest. Deductibles for the required insurance shall not be greater than $1,000 and shall be paid by the Promoter; in the event the insurance deductible is not paid by the Promoter, then a claim therefore may be made against the security posted with the Commission. Neither the insurance premium nor deductible shall be deducted from a Contestant's purse. Promoter shall also supply to Contestants all information necessary for filing a claim.

2.20.2.2 The name and contact information for the entity with whom Promoter has contracted to provide an ambulance or authorized emergency vehicle for medical transport, at least two (2) emergency medical technicians or paramedics, and appropriate medical equipment all to be on site for the duration of the Event.

2.20.2.3 Name and contact information of the Doctor working the Event activities. Promoter shall be familiar with the Doctor's required examinations under these Rules and provide adequate time for the Doctor's examinations and reporting prior to the Event.

2.20.2.4 A proposed list of Contestants including, without limitation, the Contestant's properly spelled, full legal name and date of birth.

2.20.2.5 Notice and detailed explanation of any proposed Contestant's disabilities, physical impairments or any other facts or factors which may possibly affect the competitiveness of the bout or which the Commission should be made aware.

2.20.2.6 The proposed matchups for the Event along with proof of the records of each Contestant from a recognized and Commission approved source within the industry. Contestants' records are to be delivered directly to the Commission from the authorized source for final approval of bouts. Promoters are encouraged to furnish the proposed bouts and records as early as possible to facilitate changes in any uneven or unapproved bouts. If the Commission obtains the records directly from the industry source, Promoter shall reimburse the Commission for all charges. If alternate fighters are desired, promoter must furnish the required information five (5) full business days prior to weigh-ins or the event, whichever is earlier. The Commission has the discretion to accept and consider alternate fighter submissions upon good cause shown up to the day before the bout.

2.20.2.7 Time, date and location of the weigh-ins for the Event. NOTE: for either professional boxing or MMA, fighters must weigh in at the same time.

2.20.2.8 Name and contact information for the Officials obtained and proposed for assignment to the Event.

2.20.3 Supervise and be directly responsible for the conduct of the Promoter's agents, contractors, employees and volunteers. Any violation of the Combative Sports Law or these Rules by the Promoter's agents, contractors, employees or volunteers is deemed a violation by Promoter.

2.20.4 Provide evidence, satisfactory to the Commission, that Promoter possesses sufficient knowledge of the Promoter's responsibilities and duties under the Combative Sports Law and these Rules, as well as, the has the ability and intent to comply therewith.

2.20.5 Prior to Commission event approval, all advertising or social media must carry the words 'subject to ASAC approval". Not advertise, unless authorized by Commission or clearly stated to be tentative event subject to Commission approval, or sell any tickets to an Event, unless the Event License application has been granted and Event License Fee paid to the Commission.

2.20.6 Ensure the maintenance of adequate public safety at all Events and advise the Commission prior to the Event of Promoter's proposed provisions for armed off-duty or on-duty law enforcement personnel.

2.20.7 If a promoter has had a previous incident wherein glass-bottled drinks, cans or bottles were used as weapons, then Commission has the authority to specify what types of items can be available.

2.20.8 Promoter can be required, after a prior reprimand to ensure no container of any type, other than soft plastic cups or paper cups, is used by anyone within 150 feet of the Technical Zone. Provided however, drinks may be in plastic bottles within 150 feet of the Technical Zone if the venue is fitted with netting or other barrier which prevents or otherwise makes it exceedingly difficult for hurling or throwing of the same into the Technical Zone.

2.20.9 Refer decisions or interpretations of any Rules, requiring an immediate decision, to the Designated employee(s) or Inspector assigned to the Event, who shall have the ability to decide the same, except as pertains to the sole arbiter of a match: the referee.

2.20.10 Comply with the Event Compensation requirements of these Rules and otherwise bear all financial responsibility for the Event.

2.20.11 After a prior problem with the same issue from the same promoter, prior to the beginning of each professional Event and at the discretion of the Commission or Designated employee(s), Promoter shall remit the guaranteed portion of each Contestant's Purse in cash, certified check, cashier's check, or other check or order for immediately available funds to the Commission Official in charge of the Event and such Commission Official shall distribute the amount remitted to the Contestants immediately after conclusion of the Event. Each Contestant will sign a form acknowledging receipt of the Purse amount remitted to the Commission Official.

2.20.12 For professional Events (or for amateur events in which a contract is written), the contract with each Contestant which must contain the following:

2.20.12.1 Is executed in duplicate on either Commission forms or Commission approved forms;

2.20.12.2 States the Purse guaranteed, and any sums not guaranteed or otherwise contingent on any prerequisite or subsequent act;

2.20.12.3 States the name of the Contestant's opponent;

2.20.12.4 States the number and duration of rounds and rest period in between, location and times the Contestant is scheduled to appear, Contestant's weight limit, and all other pertinent details governing the Contestant's participation in the Event;

2.20.12.5 States a weight limit for the contest, which weight limit shall be the same as that stated on the opponent's contract unless the difference between the Contestant's contracted weight and the opponent's contracted weight is clearly written on the Contract, acknowledged in writing by the Contestant and falls within the weight differences permitted by these Rules;

2.20.12.6 Payment of the Purse and other sums if the opponent fails to appear at the weigh-in or bout or fails to make the contracted weight; and

2.20.13 For each Event, provide the following at Promoter's sole expense:

2.20.13.1 Commission approved scales for the weigh-ins;

2.20.13.2 Instant pregnancy testing kits for each female Contestant;

2.20.13.3 A Ring/Cage complying with these Rules and properly set up at least two (2) hours prior to the scheduled start of the Event;

2.20.13.4 A brand new, unopened pair of properly weighted gloves, of the same make and model, for use solely by the Contestants in each championship or title bout;

2.20.13.5 In addition to any required new gloves, at least six (6) pairs of gloves approved by the Commission of the proper weight for each Contestant weight class participating in the Event; however, if only one Bout in the Event requires gloves of a certain weight, then only four (4) pairs of gloves of that weight are required;

2.20.13.6 Sufficient buckets for use by the Contestants;

2.20.13.7 Stools for use by the Contestants and Seconds;

2.20.13.8 Preferably latex-free protective, waterproof gloves for use by the Officials and Seconds;

2.20.13.9 An adequate (a minimum of ten (10) supply of clean towels (or unlimited white paper towels) for use by the Officials in keeping corners clear of excessive water and other use by the Officials;

2.20.13.10 All ringside chairs and tables for Officials as instructed by Commission, and in compliance with these Rules;

2.20.13.11 A Boxing & Wrestling approved bell and device for ringing the bell or for MMA, approved air horn;

2.20.13.12 At least two (2) stopwatches and a whistle/ or wooden 'clacker' (two pieces of wood) for use by the Timekeeper;

2.20.13.13 A public address system for use by the Announcer, Commission and if desired, Referee;

2.20.13.14 A separate dressing room for each corner's Contestants and for each sex, if requested when Contestants of both sexes are participating;

2.20.13.15 A separate room or area for physical examinations, unless the physical arrangements of the Event site make an additional room impossible;

2.20.13.16 A separate dressing room shall be provided for Officials, unless the physical arrangements of the Event site make an additional dressing room impossible;

2.20.13.17 Adequate security personnel; High stools for use by the judges or appropriate other seating;

2.20.13.18 An ambulance or authorized emergency vehicle with immediate transport authority to the nearest hospital from the Event Site, at least two (2) emergency medical technicians or paramedics, and appropriate medical equipment for life support and emergency treatment of Contestant including, without limitation a gurney, backboard, neck brace, and automatic defibrillator all to be on site and at ringside for the duration of the Event;

2.20.13.19 An Event site that conforms to the applicable laws, ordinances, rules and regulations of the state, county, city, town, or village where held; and

2.20.13.20 Public rest rooms, which shall not also be used as dressing rooms, physical examinations, or weigh-ins unless approved by ASAC.

2.20.14 Not allow any bout or heat to begin until the Doctor, Commissioner in charge of the Event, Judges, all emergency medical personnel and Timekeeper are all present at ringside;

2.20.15 Ensure the Promoter or Promoter's representative is readily accessible and available to the Officials and Commission during the entirety of the Event, which Promoter or Promoter's representative should be identified to the Commission and Officials prior to the start of the Event;

2.20.16 If the Doctor recommends or requires a Contestant go to the hospital at any time during or after the Event, then require and ensure that the emergency personnel crew and ambulance onsite for the Event immediately transport the Contestant and the Event shall not continue until a replacement ambulance and emergency personnel are again onsite;

2.20.17 Not violate any contract or breach any agreement relating to an Event;

2.20.18 Be permitted to act as a Matchmaker for their Events, but not for any event Promoted by another Promoter without also being issued a Matchmaker's license;

2.20.19 Be subject to disciplinary action, a verbal warning, and then a written reprimand by the Commission for failure to exercise objective or subjective good judgment in the arrangement or pairing of a match, whether the person knew or should have known one Contestant was substantially outclassed by the opponent.

2.21Referees. Before the Commission issues a Referee's license, the applicant for a Referee's license must certify as to having read the Act and being familiar with these Rules. The Commission may require the applicant for a Referee's license to take and pass a written test, to be conducted by the Commission covering the Act, these Rules and any other rules of the combative sport for which the Referee intends to referee a bout. The Referee shall:

2.21.1 Be trained or possess sufficient knowledge in the specific combative sport for which the Referee will be refereeing;

2.21.2 Be the sole arbiter of a bout and be the only individual, other than the doctor, or a fighter's corner authorized to stop a bout;

2.21.3 Be permitted, in the Referee's sole discretion if the case of a professional bout and if available, to within one (1) minute following the end of a round or any Referee decision bringing an end to the contest utilize instant replay or otherwise refer to or consult a 2- camera live recording of the action in the round just ended for the sole purpose(s) of:

2.21.3.1 Deciding if a cut was the result of a legal blow or accidental head-butt;

2.21.3.2 Deciding if the Contestant returned to a non-Down position before the end of the Ten Count; or

2.21.3.3 Deciding if a foul assessed against a Contestant during the round was actually a foul;

2.21.4 If the Referee utilizes instant replay or otherwise refers to or consults a live recording of the action in the round just ended, such reviewed video shall, while being reviewed, be viewed solely by the Referee and no other persons at the Event.

2.21.5 Be permitted after reviewing the instant replay or live recording of the action and before the beginning of the next round or immediately following expiration of the time permitted for review, to reverse the reviewed decision during the round just ended and if a decision is reversed, the contest shall continue consistent with the reversal without further review;

2.21.6 Be charged with the enforcement of all Rules applicable to the Event and governing the conduct of the Contestants and Seconds while Contestant is participating in the Event;

2.21.7 Not begin any round until a Commission representative, each Judge, each Timekeeper and the Doctor are each at ringside and acknowledge being ready to begin the round;

2.21.8 Obtain the name of each Contestant's chief Second prior to the bout and require the chief Second to control the activities in that Contestant's corner in compliance with these Rules;

2.21.9 Be approved by the Commission prior to the Event;

2.21.10 Inspect each Contestant and Contestant's gloves, prior to the start of each bout or contest, to ensure no foreign substances have been applied to the Contestant or gloves;

2.21.11 Provide instructions and go over the rules with the Contestants and Seconds in the dressing room prior to the start of the bout or contest; or if promoter approves in the instructions done inside the Cage/Ring.

2.21.12 Assess fouls and point deductions, when appropriate for infraction(s) of these Rules or the rules applicable to the particular combative sport, against Contestants during the round in which the foul occurs and instruct Judges to mark their scorecards accordingly; provided, the Referee should, but is not required to, warn the Contestant prior to deducting a point;

2.21.13 Call a time out and instruct the Timekeeper to cease the timing of the round during the assessment of a point deduction or for other good cause as deemed necessary in the Referee's sole discretion, provided the Referee may not call a time out for the sole purpose of allowing a Contestant additional time to recover after an opponent strikes a legal blow;

2.21.14 Disqualify Contestants, when appropriate for infraction(s) of these Rules or the rules applicable to the particular combative sport, and instruct Judges to mark their scorecards accordingly; provided however, the Referee should, but is not required to, warn the Contestant and first deduct a point or points prior to disqualifying a Contestant;

2.21.15 For professional and amateur bouts, a scorecard from each Judge after each round and deliver the same to the Commission representative or Inspector at ringside, unless directed by the Commission representative or Inspector to receive and deliver the scorecards at the end of the bout, and when receiving the scorecard, ensure the judge has computed each Contestant's score for each round and the judge's name and signature appear on the scorecard;

2.21.16 Ensure a bout or contest moves to its proper completion in compliance with these Rules;

2.21.17 Be authorized to stop a bout at any time if individuals refuse to clear the Ring and Technical Zone upon command, dispute a decision by an Official, or seek to encourage spectators to object to a decision either verbally, physically, or by engaging in disruptive conduct, and if the individual involved in disruptive conduct or encouraging disruptive conduct is a Second, the Referee shall be authorized to direct point(s) to be deducted from the Contestant's score or disqualify the Contestant, or if the conduct occurred after the decision was announced, the Commission may take such disciplinary action as it deems necessary including, without limitation, changing the decision;

2.21.18 Obtain the appropriate starting point for all Counts from the Timekeeper if possible under the circumstances; however, the Referee's Count shall be the official count;

2.21.19 Shall assess the condition of the Down Contestant during a Count and make a determination as to whether the Down Contestant is fit to continue the contest and is able to safely and intelligently defend against an attack by the Contestant's opponent if allowed to continue;

2.21.20 Continue the original Count whenever a Contestant, who has been Down, rises and falls again without being hit again;

2.21.21 If the non-Down Contestant fails to remain in the neutral corner during a Count, stop said Count until the non-Down Contestant returns to the neutral corner;

2.21.22 Rule the contest a double Knockout, if all Contestants, who have been simultaneously Knocked down, remain down until completion of the Ten Count.

2.22Seconds/Corner. Seconds shall:

2.22.1 Assist, as necessary, their Contestant before, during and after a contest;

2.22.2 If the Chief Second, be in charge of each person in the Contestant's corner and be responsible for the conduct of and can suffer violations as well other Seconds in Contestant's corner;

2.22.3 If the Chief Second, ensure the presence in the Contestant's corner during the contest a stool, pair of scissors, clean towel, clean water bucket, drinking water, and a roll of permissible tape;

2.22.4 If the Chief Second, ensure no more than two Seconds enters the ring between rounds; If a cut man is approved in a professional event, the method of delivering care inside or outside the platform shall be cleared in advance.

2.22.5 Before and during each round, ensure the entire ring platform and ropes are cleared of all obstructions, including buckets, stools, towels, excess water and other articles;

2.22.6 Remain seated in their Contestant's corner during any round;

2.22.7 Make all items present or intended to be present in a Contestant's corner available for inspection by the Commission, Doctor and Inspectors;

2.22.8 Comply with the instructions of the Officials;

2.22.9 Leave the ring upon instruction from the Referee, Official and before the start of any round;

2.22.10 Not by word or action attempt to heckle or annoy his Contestant's opponent during or immediately prior to any contest;

2.22.11 Not knock or pound on the ring or contest area floor during any round of a contest;

2.22.12 Not render aid to a Contestant who is Down or has not returned to a non-Down position following a Count before the Doctor has examined the Contestant;

2.22.13 Not assist or interfere with a Contestant who is subject to a Count until the referee has finished with the Contestant;

2.22.14 Not enter the ring until the bell has sounded at the end of the round or if a fight has been stopped;

2.22.15 Not dump, spray or toss excessive water on any fighter between rounds;

2.22.16 Not use any illegal or prohibited substances;

2.22.17 Not throw a towel or any other object into the ring, cage or contest area during a round;

2.22.18 Not step onto the ring apron during any round of a contest, unless desiring to have their Contestant declared the loser by Technical Knockout; and

2.22.19 Not enter the ring or climbing on the cage during any round of a contest, unless desiring to have their Contestant declared the loser by Disqualification and subjecting themselves and their Contestant to disciplinary action.

2.23Timekeepers. Timekeepers shall:

2.23.1 Prior to the start of each contest, ensure the presence of at least two (2) stopwatches and a whistle and a properly functioning bell or airhorn for MMA;

2.23.2 Sound the bell only at the beginning and end of each round;

2.23.3 Immediately after sounding the bell at the start of each round, start a stopwatch to keep time during the round and stop and start the stopwatch as directed by the Referee during a round;

2.23.4 At exactly ten (10) seconds before the end of each round rap the hammer three (3) times (or use wood clacker) on the table or ring floor loudly enough to be heard by the Contestants, Referee and Seconds;

2.23.5 Sound the bell one (1) time at the beginning and end of each round;

2.23.6 Immediately at the end of each round, except the final round, begin a stopwatch to keep the time during the rest period;

2.23.7 At exactly ten (10) seconds before the end of each rest period, sound a whistle loudly enough to be heard by the Contestants, Referee and Seconds and loudly announce, "Seconds out;"

2.23.8 Immediately upon a Contestant being Down or knocked out of the ring or contest area, begin an audible Count loudly enough to be heard by the Referee and continue the same until the Referee begin the audible Count;

2.23.9 Sit at a ringside table designated by the Commission and within arms-length of the bell;

2.23.10 If a bout ends before the scheduled number of rounds, inform the Referee and Commission of the exact time the bout was stopped; and

2.23.11 Be familiar with and perform such other duties as set forth in these Rules.

CHAPTER 3- BOXING

3.1 All Rules in this Chapter, Chapter 1, and Chapter 2 of these Rules apply to the combative sport of Boxing; provided however, in the event of a conflict between this Chapter, Chapter 1, and Chapter 2, the Rules in this Chapter prevail.

3.2Uniform Rules of Boxing. Unless otherwise approved or exempted by the Commission in writing prior to an Event, every Boxing Event shall be conducted under the Uniform Rules of Boxing as adopted and amended and appended thereto by the ABC on July 3, 2008.

3.3Federal ID Cards, Results & Suspensions. The Commission hereby adopts by reference the rules and guidelines in effect on the effective date of these Rules for the ABC with respect to issuance of identification cards, suspension of licenses, and Event results reporting required by the Professional Boxing Safety Act of 1996 and the Muhammad Ali Boxing Reform Act.

3.4Licensure. Each applicant for a Contestant's professional boxing license shall simultaneously apply for or currently possess a valid Federal Boxing ID.

3.5Promoters. A Promoter shall as a condition of licensure or continued licensure:

3.5.1 At all times comply with the Act, these Rules, and the instructions and directives of the Commission, Committee, Designated employee(s) and Inspector(s) assigned to the Event.

3.5.2 If for professional boxing or any other Event permitted to be placed on the national Boxing ID Registry recognized by the ABC or other recognized and Commission approved source within the industry, then the Commission shall place the Event and all pertinent Event information in such registry. The Commission will charge the Promoter for the expenses associated with the Commission's action.

3.6Referees. Before the Commission issues a Referee's license, the applicant for a Referee's license must certify as to having read the Act and being familiar with these Rules. The Commission may require the applicant for a Referee's license to take and pass a written test, to be conducted by the Commission covering the Act, these Rules and any other rules of the combative sport for which the Referee intends to referee a bout. The Referee shall:

3.6.1 Instruct the non-Down Contestant to go to the nearest neutral corner immediately after a Knock-down and remain in such neutral corner until the Referee issues instructions for the continuation of the bout;

3.6.2 Immediately after a Contestant is Down, issue an audible Count to the Down Contestant until completion of either an Eight Count or Ten Count, as warranted by the circumstances, r32egardless of whether the bell sounds during the Count; provided, if each Contestant is Down at the same time, the Count shall continue for so long as one (1) Contestant remains Down or until, in the Referee's discretion, a Contestant requires immediate medical attention;

3.6.3 Immediately after a Contestant has, as a result of actions which do not violate these Rules or the rules of the contest, been knocked through or has otherwise fallen through the ropes during a contest, issue an audible Twenty Count to such Contestant, and continue such Twenty Count until the Contestant returns unassisted and unhindered to a non-Down position inside the ring; provided, if the Contestant is assisted by a Second, the Contestant shall be disqualified and if the Contestant fails to enter the ring before completion of the Twenty Count, the Contestant shall lose by Knock Out.

3.7Headgear. During a bout, Amateur Contestants shall wear U.S.A. Boxing approved headgear and gloves weighing at least twelve (12) ounces.

3.8Gloves. Contestants weighing up to and including 147 lbs. shall wear gloves weighing eight (8) ounces, while Contestants weighing more than 147 lbs. shall wear gloves weighing ten (10) ounces; provided however, if agreed to in a writing signed by a Contestant and Contestant's opponent prior to the weigh-ins and the weight of the gloves is the same for both the Contestant and Contestant's opponent, Contestants may wear gloves weighing more than the weight required by this subsection. Gloves shall:

3.8.1 Be examined and approved by the Commission, Referee and Inspector before each contest;

3.8.2 Be clean, properly constructed and consisting of evenly distributed, uniform padding;

3.8.3 Have manufacturer's tag or otherwise have the weight of the glove proven to the Commission's and Inspector's satisfaction prior to each bout;

3.8.4 Boxing - Not expose any part of the hand or fingers below the wrist, nor allow for individual outlines or individual insertion of Contestant's fingers;

3.8.5 If equipped or secured by laces, have the laces tied on the outside of the back of the wrist of the gloves and have any plastic or other covering removed from the tips of the laces, and

3.8.6 Have the laces or hook and loop fastening system properly wrapped and covered by tape approved by the Commission and Inspector prior to each contest.

3.9Hand wraps. Contestant's hand wraps shall:

3.9.1 Consist of dry cotton gauze not more than 20 yards in length and not more than two (2) inches in width per hand; if synthetic, only 10 yards in length if Commission approved synthetic, with tape as below.

3.9.2 Have the cotton gauze held in place by white athletic tape not more than eight (8) feet in length and not more than two (2) inches in width per hand;

3.9.3 Not have any portion of the tape covering any part of the knuckles when the hand is clenched to make a fist; however, a single thickness of tape may pass one (1) time between each finger for the purpose of securing the gauze;

3.9.4 Consist of a continuous layer of the same permitted material followed by a continuous layer of the other permitted material without alternating layers of permitted material, except if the gauze is applied first, then a single strip of tape which does not pass both over and under the hand may be used to secure the gauze;

3.9.5 Be applied to each Contestant in the dressing room under the supervision of an Inspector and under the observation of an opponent's Second if the opponent's Second notifies the Inspector of such desire to observe prior to the beginning of the hand wrap application;

3.9.6 Not have any water or any other substance other than the white athletic tape may be applied to the gauze or any other portion of the hand wrap;

3.9.7 Not consist of, contain or have any other material or substance, other than as permitted by this subchapter, placed on, in, under or around the hand wrap; and

3.9.8 Not have any other material or substance, other than as permitted by this subchapter, placed on, in, around or under Contestant's hand prior to wrapping.

3.10Boxing Weight Classes. The weight classes are as follows:

3.10.1 Flyweight - up to 112 lbs.

3.10.2 Super Flyweight - over 112 to 115 lbs.

3.10.3 Bantamweight - over 115 to 118 lbs.

3.10.4 Super Bantamweight - over 118 to 122 lbs.

3.10.5 Featherweight - over 122 to 126 lbs.

3.10.6 Super Featherweight - over 126 to 130 lbs.

3.10.7 Lightweight - over 130 to 135 lbs.

3.10.8 Super Lightweight - over 135 to 140 lbs.

3.10.9 Welterweight - over 140 to 147 lbs.

3.10.10 Super Welterweight - over 147 to 154 lbs.

3.10.11 Middleweight - over 154 to 160 lbs.

3.10.12 Super Middleweight - over 160 to 168 lbs.

3.10.13 Light Heavyweight - over 168 to 175 lbs.

3.10.14 Cruiserweight - over 175 to 200 lbs.

3.10.15 Heavyweight - over 200 lbs.

3.11Weight Differences. Contestants shall not fight outside their contracted weight or weight class without approval of the Commission and agreement by the Contestants to compete at the weight differential. For ALL types of events, the weight spread between any two contestants, cannot exceed the table below. If these weights are more lenient than what the promoter desires, the promoter can use his classes or divisions, or if he chooses, he can use the table below nand develop a catchweight. Regardless of contracted weights, no Contestant may participate in an Event where the difference between the weights of the Contestant and his or her opponent at the time of weigh-in exceeds the following allowance(s):

3.11.1 112 lbs. or under - 3 lbs.

3.11.2 113-118 lbs. - 4 lbs.

3.11.3 119-126 lbs. - 5 lbs.

3.11.4 127-135 lbs. - 6lbs.

3.11.5 136-147 lbs. - 8 lbs.

3.11.6 148-160 lbs. - 10 lbs.

3.11.7 161-175 lbs. - 12 lbs.

3.11.8 176-200 lbs. - 15 lbs.

3.11.9 201 lbs. or over - no limit

3.12Weigh-Ins. Contestants failing to meet their contracted weight shall have two (2) hours after their initial weigh-in within which to meet the contracted weight. If in an attempt to make weight, a contestant shows evidence of dehydration, having taken diuretics, or other drugs, or having used any other harsh modality, the Commission shall disqualify the Contestant on the advice of the Doctor. All weigh-ins shall be conducted:

3.12.1 Not more than 36 hours prior to nor less than 5 hours before the start of an Event, or as otherwise determined by the Commission to protect the health, safety and welfare of the Contestants;

3.12.2 By the Designated employee(s) or an Inspector with weights recorded by the same;

3.12.3 In the presence of other Contestants to the extent practicable with only approved Contestants permitted to weigh in;

3.12.4 At a specific time set by the Promoter and approved by the Commission, generally between the hours of 2 p.m. of the day before the Event and 12 noon the day of the Event; or no less than 5 hours before fight start; and

3.12.5 Using "slide weight/balance" scales, digital scales or other scales as approved in advance by the Commission, which Commission may require to be certified by the Arkansas Division of Weights and Measures within the Arkansas Bureau of Standards of the State Plant Board.

CHAPTER 4- KICKBOXING

4.1 All Rules in this Chapter, Chapter 1, and Chapter 2 of these Rules apply to the combative sport of Kickboxing; provided however, in the event of a conflict between this Chapter, Chapter 1, and Chapter 2, the Rules in this Chapter prevail.

4.2 Bouts shall be governed either under the Full Contact Rules or International Rules, which governing rules shall be declared by the Referee and Promoter prior to the start of each Bout.

4.3Contestants. Contestants shall:

4.3.1 Wear only long pants during a bout conducted under Full Contact Rules and wear only shorts during a bout conducted under International Rules;

4.3.2 Permitted to strike using the feet and shins in addition to the gloved fists;

4.3.3 Permitted to use either foot for front leg sweeps, foot to foot, boot to boot, to the inside and outside of an opponent's front foot;

4.3.4 Not be permitted to use spin sweeps or punch below the hip;

4.3.5 If governed by Full Contact Rules, wear foot pads covering the toes and heel secured to the foot using an elastic strap and a nominal amount of athletic tape, which shall also cover the laces, if any;

4.3.6 Wear shin pads; and

4.3.7 If governed by International Rules, wear instep pads which cover the top of the foot.

4.4Minimum Kicks. There is no requirement for a minimum number of kicks per round; however, the Referee may issue a warning to or deduct point(s) from a Contestant who fails to execute at least six (6) kicks per round for Amateurs and eight (8) kicks per round for Professionals.

4.5Kickboxing Weight Classes. The weight classes are as follows:

4.5.1 Flyweight - up to 112 lbs.

4.5.2 Super Flyweight - over 112 to 115 lbs.

4.5.3 Bantamweight - over 115 to 118 lbs.

4.5.4 Super Bantamweight - over 118 to 122 lbs.

4.5.5 Featherweight - over 122 to 126 lbs.

4.5.6 Super Featherweight - over 126 to 130 lbs.

4.5.7 Lightweight - over 130 to 135 lbs.

4.5.8 Super Lightweight - over 135 to 140 lbs.

4.5.9 Welterweight - over 140 to 147 lbs.

4.5.10 Super Welterweight - over 147 to 154 lbs.

4.5.11 Middleweight - over 154 to 160 lbs.

4.5.12 Super Middleweight - over 160 to 168 lbs.

4.5.13 Light Heavyweight - over 168 to 175 lbs.

4.5.14 Cruiserweight - over 175 to 200 lbs.

4.5.15 Heavyweight - over 200 lbs.

CHAPTER 5- MARTIAL ARTS

5.1 All Rules in this Chapter, Chapter 1, and Chapter 2 of these apply to the combative sport of Martial Arts; provided however, in the event of a conflict between this Chapter, Chapter 1, and Chapter 2, the Rules in this Chapter prevail.

5.2 Due to the extraordinarily high number of differing disciplines in the martial arts, any Event or bout exclusively using a single martial arts discipline (as opposed to a Mixed Martial Arts Event or bout) not specifically provided for in these Rules shall be regulated on a case -by -case basis with the rules applicable to such Event or bout, if different from these, Rules established by the Commission in advance and in a manner consistent with these Rules and taking into consideration the rules, if any, of any national or international association or federation, or other recognized body or entity for the discipline.

CHAPTER 6 - MIXED MARTIAL ARTS

6.1 All Rules in this Chapter, Chapter 1, and Chapter 2 of these Rules apply to the combative sport of Mixed Martial Arts; provided however, in the event of a conflict between this Chapter, Chapter 1, and Chapter 2 the Rules in this Chapter prevail.

6.2Licensure.

6.2.1 Persons under the age of 18 will not be issued a license other than cases WHEN and IF certain criteria are met, except a Contestant's license at the discretion of the Commission. Persons 16 years of age, but not yet 18, may be issued a Contestant's license provided a notarized, written consent from the person's parent or legal guardian is submitted with the application the criteria below have been met. No professionals shall be licensed under the age of 18.

6.2.2 Each applicant for an AR Contestant's Martial Arts or Mixed Martial Arts license shall simultaneously apply for or currently possess a valid National Mixed Martial Arts ID.

6.3Judges. Judges shall modify the 10 Point Must System by not automatically deducting a point each time a Contestant is Knocked Down; but instead, shall consider the Knockdown as part of the overall scoring criteria for the round.

6.4Promoters. Promoters shall provide at least one (1) pair of fingernail clippers and two (2) nail files for each Event;

6.5Referee. Referees shall:

6.5.1 In the event a foul is committed by a Contestant:

6.5.1.1 Call a timeout;

6.5.1.2 Check the fouled Contestant's condition and safety; and

6.5.1.3 Assess either a warning or point deduction, as the Referee may deem necessary, to or against the Contestant committing the foul and notify both corners' Seconds, Judges, and the Officials at ringside and call time in for a continuation of the contest;

6.5.1.4 Following a point deduction for the commission of a foul, restart the Contestants from the same positions in approximately the same area of the ring or cage where the Contestant committed the foul; provided however, if a both Contestants are Down and a foul is committed by the Contestant on bottom, the contest shall continue without the Referee calling a timeout, unless the top Contestant is injured, so as not to jeopardize the top Contestant's superior positioning at the time and the Referee shall verbally notify the bottom Contestant of the foul and whether such is a warning or will result in the deduction of a point, then immediately following the end of the round, the Referee shall assess any point deductions and notify both corners' Seconds, Judges and ringside Officials;

6.5.1.5 Disqualify a Contestant if the foul is flagrant and severe enough, in the Referee's opinion, to warrant such penalty.

6.5.2 Neither initiates nor issues a Count to a Contestant who is Down;

6.5.3 Return the Contestants to a standing position or separate the Contestants whenever neither Contestant is actively engaged in offensive maneuvers for an unreasonable period as determined solely by the Referee; and

6.5.4 If a Contestant's mouthpiece is involuntarily dislodged during competition, call time, have the mouthpiece cleaned and reinserted at the first opportune moment, without interfering with the immediate action.

6.6Seconds. A Contestant's Chief Second may throw a white, cotton towel into the contest area only if:

6.6.1 The contest is being held inside a cage;

6.6.2 The Chief Second has first signaled or otherwise attempted to obtain the Referee's attention to stop a Mixed Martial Arts contest for a period of at least five (5) continuous seconds without obtaining the Referee's attention or without the Referee stopping the contest;

6.6.3 Throwing the towel into the cage can be done without injuring or interfering with a Contestant or Referee; and

6.6.4 Intending to stop the contest with the Contestant losing via Technical Knockout.

6.7Timekeepers. Timekeepers shall not begin a Count when an opponent is Down.

6.8Cages.

6.8.1 Have a floor area, both inside and outside the ropes, padded with ensolite or other similar closed-cell foam of at least one (1) inch thickness and approved by the Commission;

6.8.2 Have a top covering made of canvas or similar material tightly stretched and laced to the ring platform;

6.8.3 Not have a floor covering consisting of a material which tends to gather in lumps or ridges;

6.8.4 Not be more than seven (7) feet above the ground

6.8.5 Have at least two (2) sets of steps for use by Contestants and Officials;

6.8.6 Have posts made of metal not less than three (3) inches in diameter

6.8.7 Have turnbuckles and corners protected with a urethane pad covered with a material similar to the ring floor covering or plasticized rubber or vinyl;

6.8.8 Have sufficient strength and safety in both the floor and support structure to safely hold the actively moving weight of all Contestants, Officials, Seconds and other persons and equipment which may be simultaneously inside the Ring. Liability for structure failure shall fall upon promoter for ASAC evaluation.

6.9Cage Access. Access to the Cage shall be only as follows:

6.9.1 Prior to and immediately following a bout, only the Announcer, Announcer assistant, Authorized Media personnel, promoter, Contestants, Doctor, Inspectors, Commission representatives and persons authorized by the Commission shall be allowed inside the cage, unless otherwise specified by promoter and approved by Commission.

6.9.2 At least one (1) minute before the start of the first round of each bout, only the Announcer, Contestants, Contestants' chief Seconds, and the Referee may be inside the cage and the Referee shall clear the cage of all other individuals.

6.9.3 During a round, only Contestants and the Referee are permitted inside the cage.

6.9.4 In between rounds only Contestants, one Second from each Contestant, Referee, doctor and one individual holding a ring card/round indicator are permitted inside the cage.

6.9.5 The Referee and/or Commission may order the ring be cleared of any or all persons at any time, either before, during or after a bout.

6.10Cage, Mats & Contest Areas. In addition to or contradiction of Chapter One, the ring or cage shall:

6.10.1 The cage must be enclosed by fencing made of a material that will prevent a Contestant from falling or breaking through the fenced area and such fencing must be covered using a non-abrasive, plasticized rubber or vinyl material;

6.10.2 The cage must have properly padded posts made of metal not less than three (3) inches nor more than six (6) inches in diameter. The platform of the cage cannot be less than three (3) feet off the floor nor higher than seven (7) feet off the floor.

6.10.3 The cage must have sufficient strength in both the floor and support structure to safely hold the actively moving weight of all Contestants, Officials, Seconds and other persons and equipment which may be simultaneously inside the Ring;

6.10.4 The cage must, be circular or have at least five equal sides with the shortest straight-line distance between any two opposite sides no less than eighteen (18) feet across.

6.10.5 The cage must, have one (1) or more entry point with a gate secured using pins or latches which do not intrude into the contest area, are not tied together and do not fall out or become unattached during a round by the vibration or movement inside the cage; and

6.10.6 The cage must be constructed in such a manner so as to provide a clear view into the cage from outside the cage.

6.11Additional Contest Endings. A contest may also end via Submission or by Tapout.

6.12Contestants. Contestants shall:

6.12.1 Only wear shorts or trunks without a zipper or metal fastener;

6.12.2 Not wear shoes or any padding on the feet;

6.12.3 Wear open fingered, gloves weighing not less than four (4) ounces, nor more than eight (8) ounces for Professional contests and not less than six (6) ounces for Amateur contests;

6.12.4 Have closely trimmed, dulled, rounded and smoothed fingernails;

6.12.5 Be permitted up to two (2) Seconds inside the cage during the rest period

6.12.6 Have petroleum jelly nowhere other than immediately around the eye sockets, check bones (not on or past the temple of the head) and nose.

6.13Weight Classes. Contestants shall use the following weight classes:

6.13.1 Flyweight up to 125lbs.

6.13.2 Bantamweight - 125.1 lbs. but less than 135 lbs.

6.13.3 Featherweight - 135.1 lbs. but less than 145 lbs.

6.13.4 Lightweight - 145.1 lbs. but less than 155 lbs.

6.13.5 Welterweight - 155.1 lbs. but less than 170 lbs.

6.13.6 Middleweight - 170.1 lbs. but less than 185 lbs.

6.13.7 Light Heavyweight - 185.1 lbs. but less than 205 lbs.

6.13.8 Heavyweight - 205.1 lbs. but less than 265 lbs.

6.13.9 Super Heavyweight - 265 lbs. and up

6.14Bouts, Heats & Rounds. Non-championship and non-title bout(s) shall be scheduled for three (3) rounds. Championship or title bouts shall be scheduled for five (5) rounds. If agreed in a writing signed by the Contestant and Contestant's opponent prior to the weigh-ins and the bout is scored a Draw at the end of the scheduled rounds, a Professional bout may be extended by successive individual "overtime" rounds until a winner is declared in accordance with these Rules.

6.15Duration of Rounds. The duration of each amateur round shall be three (3) minutes with a one (1) minute rest period between each round. The duration of each professional round shall be five (5) minutes with a one (1) minute rest in between each round.

6.16Injuries & Point Deduction for Fouls. If an injury sustained during competition as a result of:

6.16.1 An accidental low blow, the Referee shall call timeout and the Contestant who has been struck with the low blow shall be allowed up to five (5) minutes to recover from the foul without assistance from any Second and continue the contest, provided if the Contestant can continue before the expiration of the five (5) minute recovery period, the Referee shall as soon as practical restart the contest and if the Contestant cannot continue after the expiration of the five (5) minute recovery period, the Referee shall call an end to the contest with the outcome determined by as provided for by these Rules for any other accidental foul severe enough for the Referee to immediately stop the bout;

6.16.2 A legal maneuver and is severe enough for the Referee to terminate a bout, the injured Contestant shall lose by Technical Knockout;

6.16.3 An intentional foul and is severe enough for the Referee to terminate a bout, the Contestant causing the injury shall lose by Disqualification;

6.16.4 An intentional foul and the bout is allowed to continue, the Referee shall notify the judges to automatically deduct two (2) points from the contestant who committed the foul;

6.16.5 An intentional foul and the bout is allowed to continue, but causes the injured Contestant to be unable to continue at a subsequent point in the bout, the injured Contestant shall win by Technical Decision, if the Contestant is ahead on the Judges' cards at the time of stoppage, the bout shall be declared a Technical Draw, if the injured Contestant is even or behind on the Judges' cards at the time of stoppage;

6.16.6 A Contestant's attempt to foul an opponent, the Referee shall not take any action and the injury shall be treated in the same as an injury produced by a fair blow;

6.16.7 Any accidental foul, the Referee shall call timeout and the Contestant suffering from the accidental foul may be allowed up to five (5) minutes to recover from the foul without assistance from any Second and continue the contest; however, if the Contestant cannot continue after the expiration of the five (5) minute recovery period or the accidental foul is severe enough for the Referee to immediately stop the bout, the Referee shall call an immediate end to the bout and the bout shall be ruled a No Contest if the bout is stopped before the end of two (2) rounds in a three (3) round bout or if stopped before the end of three (3) rounds in a five (5) round bout, provided there will be no scoring of an incomplete round; or

6.16.8 Any accidental foul, the Referee shall call timeout and the Contestant suffering the accidental foul may be allowed up to five (5) minutes to recover from the foul without assistance from any Second and continue the contest; however, if the Contestant cannot continue after the expiration of the five (5) minute recovery period or the accidental foul is severe enough for the Referee to immediately stop the bout, the Referee shall call an immediate end to the bout and a Technical Decision shall be awarded to the Contestant who is ahead on the score cards at the time the bout is stopped if the bout is stopped after the end of two (2) rounds of a three (3) round bout, or after the end of three (3) rounds of a five (5) round bout, provided incomplete rounds shall not be scored, except the Judges shall deduct points as directed by Referee if such point deductions were the result of a Contestant's action in the incomplete round.

6.17Fouls. The following acts constitute fouls:

6.17.1 Intentionally head-butting an opponent;

6.17.2 Intentionally gouging or poking an opponent's eye;

6.17.3 Biting;

6.17.4 Hair pulling;

6.17.5 Fish hooking;

6.17.6 Groin attacks;

6.17.7 Putting a finger into any orifice, cut or laceration;

6.17.8 Small joint manipulation;

6.17.9 Striking the spine or the back of the head;

6.17.10 Amateurs in MMA cannot elbow or knee to the head in any position. Elbows or knees to the head are not considered a foul in professional MMA, excepting that in no case can elbows be thrown in a clock-face 12-6 motion (vertical strike);

6.17.11 Throat strikes including, without limitation, squeezing the trachea;

6.17.12 Clawing, pinching or twisting the flesh;

6.17.13 Grabbing the clavicle;

6.17.14 Kicking the head of a grounded opponent;

6.17.15 Kneeing the head of a grounded opponent;

6.17.16 Stomping a grounded opponent;

6.17.17 Kicking to the kidney with the heel;

6.17.18 Spiking the head or neck of an opponent to the floor of the ring or cage;

6.17.19 Intentionally throwing an opponent out of the ring or cage;

6.17.20 Holding or grabbing the shorts or gloves of an opponent;

6.17.21 Spitting at an opponent;

6.17.22 Engaging in un-sportsmanlike conduct;

6.17.23 Holding the ropes or fencing of the cage;

6.17.24 Attacking an opponent on or during the break;

6.17.25 Attacking an opponent under the care of the Referee;

6.17.26 Attacking an opponent after the bell has sounded the end of the round;

6.17.27 Flagrantly disregarding the Referee's instructions;

6.17.28 Timidity, including, without limitation, non-defensive avoidance of contact with an opponent;

6.17.29 Intentionally or repeatedly dropping or spitting out the mouthpiece;

6.17.30 Faking an injury;

6.17.31 If in an Amateur bout, any elbow strike or knee strike to the head or neck; and

6.17.32 If in an Amateur bout, any neck cranks or techniques designed to hyperextend, manipulate or attack the spine or neck.

CHAPTER 7- MUAY THAI

7.1 All Rules in this Chapter, Chapter 1, and Chapter 2 of these Rules apply to the combative sport of Muay Thai; provided however, in the event of a conflict between this Chapter, Chapter 1, and Chapter 2, Rules in this Chapter prevail.

7.2 Muay Thai is Combative Sport in which a Contestant shall utilizes strikes using gloved fists, elbows, feet, shin and knees. In a Muay Thai bout, it is permissible, unless otherwise designated as a foul, for a Contestant to strike an opponent's legs, arms, body, face, and head using the gloved fists, elbows, feet, shin and knees. Spinning back fist blows are allowed, so long as contact is made only with the padded part of the glove.

7.3Licensure.

7.3.1 Persons under the age of 18 will not be issued a license other than cases WHEN and IF certain criteria are met, except a Contestant's license at the discretion of the Commission. Persons 16 years of age, but not yet 18, may be issued a Contestant's license provided a notarized, written consent from the person's parent or legal guardian is submitted with the application the criteria below have been met. No professionals shall be licensed under the age of 18.

7.3.2 Each applicant for an AR Contestant's Martial Arts or Mixed Martial Arts license shall simultaneously apply for or currently possess a valid National Mixed Martial Arts ID.

7.4Contestants. Contestants are permitted to wear single elastic bandages around their wrists, ankles or feet to protect and avoid sprains. A Contestant is permitted to utilize a wrap on their ankles under the same restrictions as their hand wraps.

7.5Fouls. The following acts constitute fouls:

7.5.1 All fouls specified for Mixed Martial Arts under these Rules;

7.5.2 Striking a downed opponent;

7.5.3 Holding or stepping on one of the ropes while fighting, elbowing, or striking; and

7.5.4 Performing any hold or technique not ordinarily considered by the World Muay Thai Council as part of the Muay Thai technique.

7.6Rounds & Duration. A Professional bout shall be five (5) scheduled rounds with the duration of each round being three (3) minutes with a two (2) minute rest period between each round. An Amateur bout shall be three (3) scheduled rounds with the duration of each round being two (2) minutes with a one (1) minute rest period between each round.

7.7Seconds. During a bout, Seconds are not allowed to advise, help or instruct their Contestant nor signal the condition of the Contestant to interested parties.

7.8Weight Classes. Contestants shall use the following weight classes:

7.8.1 Mini-Flyweight up to 105 lbs.

7.8.2 Junior-Flyweight - over 105 lbs. up to 108 lbs.

7.8.3 Flyweight - over 108 lbs. up to 112 lbs.

7.8.4 Junior Bantamweight - over 112 lbs. up to 115 lbs.

7.8.5 Bantamweight - over 115 lbs. up to 118 lbs.

7.8.6 Junior Featherweight - over 118 lbs. up to 122 lbs.

7.8.7 Featherweight - over 122 lbs. up to 126 lbs.

7.8.8 Junior Lightweight - over 126 lbs. up to 130 lbs.

7.8.9 Lightweight - over 130 lbs. up to 135 lbs.

7.8.10 Junior Welterweight - over 135 lbs. up to 140 lbs.

7.8.11 Welterweight - over 140 lbs. up to 147 lbs.

7.8.12 Junior Middleweight - over 147 lbs. up to 154 lbs.

7.8.13 Middleweight - over 154 lbs. up to 160 lbs.

7.8.14 Super Middleweight - over 160 lbs. up to 168 lbs.

7.8.15 Light Heavyweight - over 168 lbs. up to 175 lbs.

7.8.16 Cruiserweight - over 175 lbs. up to 190 lbs.

7.8.17 Heavyweight - over 190 lbs. up to 200 lbs.

7.8.18 Super Heavyweight - over 200 lbs.

7.9Weight Differences. Contestants shall not fight outside their contracted weight or weight class without approval of the Commission and agreement by the Contestants to compete at the weight differential. Regardless of contracted weights, no Contestant may participate in an Event where the difference between the weights of the Contestant and his or her opponent at the time of weigh-in exceeds the following allowance(s) in the table below. For ALL types of events, the weight spread between any two contestants, cannot exceed the table below. If these weights are more lenient than what the promoter desires, the promoter can use his classes or divisions, or if he chooses, he can use the below table and develop a catchweight.

7.9.1 112 lbs. or under - 3 lbs.

7.9.2 113-118 lbs. - 4 lbs.

7.9.3 119-126 lbs. - 5 lbs.

7.9.4 127-135 lbs. - 6 lbs.

7.9.5 136-147 lbs. - 8 lbs.

7.9.6 148-160 lbs. - 10 lbs.

7.9.7 161-175 lbs. - 12 lbs.

7.9.8 176-200 lbs. - 15 lbs.

7.9.9 201 lbs. or over - No limit

7.10Weigh-Ins. Contestants failing to meet their contracted weight shall have two (2) hours after their initial weigh-in within which to meet the contracted weight. If in an attempt to make weight, a contestant shows evidence of dehydration, having taken diuretics, or other drugs, or having used any other harsh modality, the Commission shall disqualify the Contestant on the advice of the Doctor. All weigh-ins shall be conducted:

7.10.1 Not more than 36 hours prior to nor less than 5 hours before the start of an Event, or as otherwise determined by the Commission to protect the health, safety and welfare of the Contestants;

7.10.2 By the Designated employee(s) or an Inspector with weights recorded by the same;

7.10.3 In the presence of other Contestants to the extent practicable with only approved Contestants permitted to weigh in;

7.10.4 At a specific time set by the Promoter and approved by the Commission, generally between the hours of 2 p.m. of the day before the Event and 12 noon the day of the Event; or no less than 5 hours before fight start and

7.10.5 Using "slide weight/balance" scales, digital scales or other scales as approved in advance by the Commission, which Commission may require to be certified by the Arkansas Division of Weights and Measures within the Arkansas Bureau of Standards of the State Plant Board.

7.11Gloves.

7.11.1 Contestants weighing up to and including 122 lbs. shall wear gloves weighing six (6) ounces, while Contestants weighing more than 122 lbs. up to and including 147 lbs. shall wear gloves weighing eight (8) ounces, while Contestants weighing more than 147 lbs. shall wear gloves weighing ten (10) ounces; provided however, if agreed to in a writing signed by a Contestant and Contestant's opponent prior to the weigh-ins and the weight of the gloves is the same for both the Contestant and Contestant's opponent, Contestants may wear gloves weighing more than the weight required by this subsection.

7.11.2 Gloves shall:

7.11.2.1 Be examined and approved by the Commission, Referee and Inspector before each contest;

7.11.2.2 Be clean, properly constructed and consisting of evenly distributed, uniform padding;

7.11.2.3 Have manufacturer's tag or otherwise have the weight of the glove proven to the Commission's and Inspector's satisfaction prior to each bout;

7.11.2.4 Not expose any part of the hand or fingers below the wrist, nor allow for individual outlines or individual insertion of Contestant's fingers;

7.11.2.5 Have the thumb attached or be thumbless;

7.11.2.6 If equipped or secured by laces, have the laces tied on the outside of the back of the wrist of the gloves and have any plastic or other covering removed from the tips of the laces; and

7.11.2.7 Have the laces or hook and loop fastening system properly wrapped and covered by tape approved by the Commission and Inspector prior to each contest.

7.12Hand wraps. Contestant's hand wraps shall:

7.12.1 Consist of dry cotton gauze not more than 20 yards in length and not more than two (2) inches in width per hand; if synthetic, only 10 yards in length if Commission approved synthetic, with tape as below.

7.12.2 Have the cotton gauze held in place by white athletic tape not more than eight (8) feet in length and not more than two (2) inches in width per hand;

7.12.3 Not have any portion of the tape covering any part of the knuckles when the hand is clenched to make a fist; however, a single thickness of tape may pass one (1) time between each finger for the purpose of securing the gauze;

7.12.4 Consist of a continuous layer of the same permitted material followed by a continuous layer of the other permitted material without alternating layers of permitted material, except if the gauze is applied first, then a single strip of tape which does not pass both over and under the hand may be used to secure the gauze;

7.12.5 Be applied to each Contestant in the dressing room under the supervision of an Inspector and under the observation of an opponent's Second if the opponent's Second notifies the Inspector of such desire to observe prior to the beginning of the hand wrap application;

7.12.6 Not have any water or any other substance other than the white athletic tape may be applied to the gauze or any other portion of the hand wrap;

7.12.7 Not consist of, contain or have any other material or substance, other than as permitted by this subchapter, placed on, in, under or around the hand wrap; and

7.12.8 Not have any other material or substance, other than as permitted by this subchapter, placed on, in, around or under Contestant's hand prior to wrapping.

CHAPTER 8- ELIMINATION TOURNAMENTS

8.1 All Rules in this Chapter, Chapter 1, and Chapter 2 apply to Elimination Tournaments; provided however, in the event of a conflict between this Chapter, Chapter 1, and Chapter 2, the Rules in this Chapter prevail.

8.2Licensure. Persons under the age of 18 will not be issued a license.

8.3Promoters. Promoters of Elimination Tournaments shall:

8.3.1 Provide at least six (6) pairs of sixteen (16) ounce gloves; and

8.3.2 Provide at least six (6) U.S.A. Boxing approved headgears.

8.4Contestants. All Contestants in an Elimination Tournament shall:

8.4.1 Wear sixteen (16) ounce gloves;

8.4.2 Wear U.S.A. Boxing approved headgear, which is provided by the Promoter;

8.4.3 At least eighteen (18) years of age;

8.4.4 Not be currently nor have at any other time been licensed in Arkansas or any other jurisdiction as a Professional;

8.4.5 Not participate in more than one (1) bout during the first day of a two (2) day Event;

8.4.6 Not participate in more than twelve (12) minutes the second night of a two (2) night Event, nor the day of a one (1) day Event; and

8.4.7 Not participate if Contestant has been a winner of more than three (3) in the past twelve (12) months or five (5) in the past five (5) years of any combination of Amateur Combative Sports or Elimination Contest, unless the event is restricted only to winners of previous such Events.

8.5Not Professional. Competing for or winning a prize in an elimination tournament shall not deem the Contestant a Professional under these Rules.

8.6Licensing. Contestant Licenses issued to Contestants in Elimination Tournaments shall be designated and marked with an Elimination Contest Only restriction.

8.7Weight Classes. The Rules in Chapter 1 regarding maximum weight differences between Contestants shall not be applicable to Elimination Tournaments Contestants competing in Elimination Contests shall use the following weight classes:

8.7.1 Lightweight - 140 up to 160 lbs.

8.7.2 Middleweight - over 160 up to 185 lbs.

8.7.3 Heavyweight - over 185 up to 265 lbs.

8.7.4 Super Heavyweight - over 265 lbs.

8.8Rounds & Duration. Each bout shall be scheduled for three (3) rounds of one (1) minute in duration with a one (1) minute rest period between each round. Elimination Tournaments may be a one (1) or two (2) day Event.

8.9Standing Eight Count. Referees may, in the Referee's sole discretion, issue a Standing Eight Count to a Contestant.

8.10Three Knockdown Rule. A Contestant who is Down three (3) times in the same round shall lose the bout by Technical Knockout.

8.11No Draws. If at the end of the scheduled number of rounds, a bout is scored a Draw, the Judges shall reevaluate their scorecards and with the input of the Referee select a winner.

8.12Single Elimination. Elimination Tournaments shall be single elimination Events whereby a Contestant who has lost a bout during the Event may not thereafter participate in another bout during the Event; provided however, if the Contestant's loss was not by Knockout or Technical Knockout, then Promoter may, but is not required, allow the Contestant to participate again in the same Event.

8.13Matchmaking. At the start of each day of the Elimination Tournament the Promoter shall match Contestants closely in their weight class; however, the Commission must approve all bouts and matches.

8.14Weight Differences. Contestants shall not fight outside their contracted weight or weight class without approval of the Commission and agreement by the Contestants to compete at the weight differential. Regardless of contracted weights, no Contestant may participate in an Event where the difference between the weights of the Contestant and his or her opponent at the time of weigh-in exceeds the below listed allowance(s). For ALL types of events, the weight spread between any two contestants, cannot exceed the table below. If these weights are more lenient than what the promoter desires, the promoter can use his classes or divisions, or if he chooses, he can use the table below and develop a catchweight.

8.14.1 112 lbs. or under - 3 lbs.

8.14.2 113-118 lbs. - 4 lbs.

8.14.3 119-126 lbs. - 5 lbs.

8.14.4 127-135 lbs. - 6 lbs.

8.14.5 136-147 lbs. - 8 lbs.

8.14.6 148-160 lbs. - 10 lbs.

8.14.7 161-175 lbs. - 12 lbs.

8.14.8 176-200 lbs. - 15 lbs.

8.14.9 201 lbs. or over - No limit

8.15Weigh-Ins. Contestants failing to meet their contracted weight shall have two (2) hours after their initial weigh-in within which to meet the contracted weight. If in an attempt to make weight, a contestant shows evidence of dehydration, having taken diuretics, or other drugs, or having used any other harsh modality, the Commission shall disqualify the Contestant on the advice of the Doctor. All weigh-ins shall be conducted:

8.15.1 Not more than 36 hours prior to nor less than 5 hours before the start of an Event, or as otherwise determined by the Commission to protect the health, safety and welfare of the Contestants;

8.15.2 By the Designated employee(s) or an Inspector with weights recorded by the same;

8.15.3 In the presence of other Contestants to the extent practicable with only approved Contestants permitted to weigh in;

8.15.4 At a specific time set by the Promoter and approved by the Commission, generally between the hours of 2 p.m. of the day before the Event and 12 noon the day of the Event; or no less than five (5) hours before fight start and

8.15.5 Using "slide weight/balance" scales, digital scales or other scales as approved in advance by the Commission, which Commission may require to be certified by the Arkansas Division of Weights and Measures within the Arkansas Bureau of Standards of the State Plant Board.

8.16Gloves. Gloves shall:

8.16.1 Be examined and approved by the Commission, Referee and Inspector before each contest;

8.16.2 Be clean, properly constructed and consisting of evenly distributed, uniform padding;

8.16.3 Have manufacturer's tag or otherwise have the weight of the glove proven to the Commission's and Inspector's satisfaction prior to each bout;

8.16.4 Not expose any part of the hand or fingers below the wrist, nor allow for individual outlines or individual insertion of Contestant's fingers;

8.16.5 Have the thumb attached;

8.16.6 If equipped or secured by laces, have the laces tied on the outside of the back of the wrist of the gloves and have any plastic or other covering removed from the tips of the laces; and

8.16.7 Have the laces or hook and loop fastening system properly wrapped and covered by tape approved by the Commission and Inspector prior to each contest.

8.17Hand wraps. Contestant's hand wraps shall:

8.17.1 Consist of dry cotton gauze not more than 20 yards in length and not more than two (2) inches in width per hand; if synthetic, only 10 yards in length if Commission approved synthetic, with tape as below.

8.17.2 Have the cotton gauze held in place by white athletic tape not more than eight (8) feet in length and not more than two (2) inches in width per hand;

8.17.3 Not have any portion of the tape covering any part of the knuckles when the hand is clenched to make a fist; however, a single thickness of tape may pass one (1) time between each finger for the purpose of securing the gauze;

8.17.4 Consist of a continuous layer of the same permitted material followed by a continuous layer of the other permitted material without alternating layers of permitted material, except if the gauze is applied first, then a single strip of tape which does not pass both over and under the hand may be used to secure the gauze;

8.17.5 Be applied to each Contestant in the dressing room under the supervision of an Inspector and under the observation of an opponent's Second if the opponent's Second notifies the Inspector of such desire to observe prior to the beginning of the hand wrap application;

8.17.6 Not have any water or any other substance other than the white athletic tape may be applied to the gauze or any other portion of the hand wrap;

8.17.7 Not consist of, contain or have any other material or substance, other than as permitted by this subchapter, placed on, in, under or around the hand wrap; and

8.17.8 Not have any other material or substance, other than as permitted by this subchapter, placed on, in, around or under Contestant's hand prior to wrapping.

235.08.22 Ark. Code R. 003

Adopted by Arkansas Register Volume 48 Number 09, Effective 9/5/2022