Scoring and Warnings in kickboxing/Muay Thai

The standard judging procedure is as follows: Points and warnings may be awarded.

The scoring system varies by organization and country. There are also differences between K-1 rules, kickboxing, and FMT (full Muay Thai).

Kickboxing scoring:

• Correct Muay Thai style, combined with hard and effective attacks.
• An aggressive and dominant style.
• Clearly dominating the opponent.
• Using the traditional Thai style of defense and counterattacks.

No points are awarded for attacks that:

• Are not permitted under the rules
• Are punches, kicks, or strikes against the opponent’s guard.
• Are not sufficiently powerful.

Warnings are issued for every violation observed by the referee. Any violation identified by a judge but not indicated by the referee is taken into account accordingly in that individual judge’s score.

1. The maximum score for each round is 10 points. The losing party can score 9, 8, or 7 points per round.
2. A tied round gives both fighters 10 points.
3. The winner of a non-dominant round receives 10:9.
4. The winner of a dominant round receives 10:8.
5. The winner of a non-dominant round with one knockdown receives 10:8.
6. The winner of a dominant round with one knockdown receives 10:7.
7. The winner of a non-dominant round with one knockdown receives 10:8.
8. The winner of a round with two knockdowns receives 10:7.
9. A fighter who commits a violation or receives an official warning loses one point for each warning, as applicable.

Kickboxing fouls:

• Biting, eye gouging, spitting, or headbutting.
• Wrestling, arm locks, or similar techniques.
• Intentionally falling on top of the opponent.
• Holding the ropes for any reason.
• Swearing or using abusive language during the match.
• Attacking the opponent after the referee’s stop signal.
• Intentionally attacking the groin.