KNIFE FIGHT COMPETITION RULES

Knife_Fight_TV_Titlecard.png

A Knife Fighting Competition is an athletic competition which is based on real knife combat. This competition provides a medium for competitors to test their own fighting abilities in a tournament with a clear set of rules, a point system and a referee. Special combat knives (light up knives that flash blue or red when making contact) and required padded safety vests will be used in the competition to guarantee safe fights. The competition knives and vests will be provided by Show Management.

There is a clear focus on fairness. Competitors must be at least 18 years of age and will be responsible for their own safety.

The main referee will examine the equipment of both competitors prior to the first round.

Prior to the beginning of the fight, competitors will stand three yards apart. The competition does not start before the main referee gives the starting command. The main referee will be noticed about the end of the round by the timekeeper.

Upon command by the main referee both competitors return to the center of the ring when the judges’ decision is announced.

Scoring

  • Points will be awarded for hits with the knife on the torso. The knives must light up in order for the strike to be counted. Head, arm or leg strikes will not be counted for scoring.

  • Fights will end by point victory if one competitor scores five points.

  • The fight is won by the competitor who has won most rounds. If tied, another round will be fought. If still tied, the first hit decides (Golden Point).

  • Trapping, parrying, blocking, and holding are legal maneuvers.

  • Surrender and stopping the fight due to an injury or to adjust equipment must be signaled by raising both arms and retreating from the opponent. Turning the back on the opponent is illegal.

  • In case of an illegal maneuver by one opponent, the main referee will stop the fight and inform the judges about the deduction of points.

  • Should one competitor leave the mat, the main referee will direct the competitor’s attention to this fact. Should one competitor leave the mat three times, the main referee will stop the fight and inform the judges about the deduction of points.

Scores

  • Hits to the torso – 1 point

Disqualification

  • Leg sweeps and throws lead to disqualification.

  • Deliberate shots to the head or face will lead to disqualification.

Commands

The main referee will use the following commands:

  • “Fight” signals the beginning of the fight.

  • “Break” interrupts the fight.

  • “Over” signals the end of a round.