Rules of MMA

The rules for most mixed martial arts competitions have evolved since the early days of vale tudo. As the knowledge about fighting techniques spread among fighters and spectators, it became clear that the original minimalist rule systems needed to be amended.[27] One of the main motivations for these rule changes included the protection of the perceived health of the fighters—this was motivated by a desire to clear the stigma of "barbaric, no rules, fighting-to-the-death" matches that MMA obtained because of its vale tudo and no holds barred roots. It also helped athletes avoid injuries which would otherwise hamper the training regimens that improve skill and ability and lead to better fights in the future. The changes were also made for entertainment value—they promoted good fighters involved in action-packed fights rather than unskilled "street brawls."
Weight classes emerged when knowledge about submissions spread. When more fighters became well-versed in submission techniques and avoiding submissions, differences in weight became a substantial factor. Weight classes can vary widely between organizations.
Headbutts were prohibited in many MMA organizations because it was a technique that required little effort and could quickly turn the match into a bloody mess; in short the visible cuts created were disproportionate to the amount of actual damage. Headbutting was common among wrestlers because their skill in takedowns allowed them to quickly transfer bouts to the ground where they could assault opponents with headbutts while not being required to alter their position.
Small, open-fingered gloves were introduced to protect fists in punches. Although some fighters may have well conditioned fists, others may not. The small bones in an unprotected and unconditioned fist are prone to injury when it hits a torso or forehead with power. Gloves also reduce the occurrence of cuts (and stoppages due to cuts) and encourage fighters to use their hands for striking, both of which enable more captivating matches.
Time limits were established to avoid long fights on the ground with little perceivable action. Matches without time limits also complicated the airing of live events. Similar motivations produced the "stand up" rule, where the referee can stand fighters up if it is perceived both are resting on the ground or are not advancing toward a dominant position. [27]
In the U.S., state athletic and boxing commissions have played a crucial role in the introduction of additional rules because they oversee MMA in similar ways as they do for boxing. Small shows usually use more restrictive rules because they have less experienced fighters who are looking to acquire experience and exposure that could ultimately lead them to getting recruited into one of the larger, better paying promotions.
In Japan and Europe, there is no regulating authority over competitions, so these organizations have greater freedom in rule development and event structure.
In general, a balanced set of rules with organization-specific variances has been established and is widely used, and major rule changes are unlikely, allowing for fighters in one organization to transition to others easily.
[edit]Ways to victory


The standing fighter is attempting to escape defeat via armbar by slamming his opponent to the ground so that he will release his grip.
Although rules differ among promotions, these are the basic regulations which most will follow.[6][28]
Knockout: as soon as a fighter becomes unconscious due to strikes, his opponent is declared the winner. Since ground fighting is allowed, the fight is stopped to prevent further injury to an unconscious fighter.[29]
Submission: a fighter may admit defeat during a match by tapping three times on his opponent's body, on the mat or floor, or by verbal announcement.
Technical knockout: the referee may stop a match in progress if a fighter becomes dominant to the point where the opponent is unable to intelligently defend himself from attacks, appears to be unconscious from a grappling hold, or appears to have developed significant injuries, such as a broken limb. If a fighter's ability to continue is in question as a result of apparent injuries (such as a large cut), the referee will call for a time out and a ring doctor will inspect the fighter and stop the match if the fighter is deemed unable to continue safely, rendering the opponent the winner. However, if the match is stopped as a result of an injury from illegal actions by the opponent, either a disqualification or no contest will be issued instead. In order to avoid doctor stoppages, fighters employ cutmen, whose job is to treat cuts and hematomas between rounds to prevent them from becoming significant enough to cause a doctor stoppage. A fighter's cornermen may also announce defeat on the fighter's behalf by throwing in the towel during the match in progress or between rounds.
Decision: if the match goes the distance, the outcome of the bout is determined by three judges using organization-specific criteria. The 10-point must system is a common judging system.
Disqualification: a warning will be given when a fighter commits a foul or illegal action or does not follow the referee's instruction. Three warnings will result in a disqualification. Moreover, if a fighter is injured and unable to continue due to a deliberate illegal technique from his opponent, the opponent will be disqualified.
No contest: in the event that both fighters commit a violation of the rules, or a fighter is unable to continue due to an injury from an accidental illegal technique, the match will be declared a no contest.
[edit]Common fouls
Leg strikes, kicks, or stomps to the head of a downed opponent.
Headbutting, eye gouging, hair pulling, biting or fish-hooking.
Attacking the groin or trachea, or striking the back of the head, spinal area, or kidneys.
Clawing, twisting, or pinching the flesh.
Small joint manipulation (control of three or more digits is necessary).
Attacking an opponent on or from the break, or who is under the care of an official.
Intentionally exiting or throwing your opponent out of the area of combat.
Holding the ring ropes or fence.
Spitting on the opponent or referee.
Timidity—in some promotions fighters can be penalized for lack of aggression or faking an injury.[30]
Use of abusive language when inside the area of combat directed at either the opponent or the official.
Spiking another fighter on their head if not thrown.


Refernce: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mixed_martial_arts