top of page
IMG_5820.JPG

Rules & Event Standards

Skill & Control First

SAAMA Fight Nights are sparring‑style events that emphasize technique, skill, and control over power. Athletes must demonstrate control at all times. Excessive power will be stopped or penalized at the referee’s discretion.

Fight Night provides a safe, structured environment where athletes can grow their skills through supervised, controlled contact. These events are designed to build confidence, encourage technical development, and support athletes as they progress in their martial arts journey.

Rule Sets

Kickboxing

Event Standards

Waiver & Participant Agreement

All competing athletes must review, acknowledge, and sign (or have a parent or legal guardian review, acknowledge, and sign for youth) our event waiver before competing. It outlines the risks of martial arts participation and the safety standards we follow to protect every athlete. Please read the full waiver before completing the application.

Matchmaking

All bouts are arranged with safety and fairness as the top priority, and final matchups are approved in collaboration with each fighter’s coach. Matchmaking or bout order may be adjusted as needed. Fighters are matched based upon their:

  • Age

  • Weight

  • Time training

  • Combat experience

  • Coach-provided information

Required Gear

  • Headgear (you may bring your own or use the event-provided headgear)

  • Mouthguard

  • Provided gloves (Boxing and MMA gloves are provided by SAAMA Fight Night)

  • Shin guards (you may use your own or use the event-provided shin guards)

  • Groin protection (highly recommended for males)

  • Appropriate athletic attire (shorts, rashguard, etc.)

Referee Authority

Referees may stop the action at any time to address safety concerns, correct technique, manage excessive power, or de‑escalate intensity. Their decisions are final and made in the interest of athlete development and safety.

Coaches & Corners

  • Coaches must ensure athletes understand the expectations of control and respect

  • Corners must remain calm and constructive

  • Athletes or coaches who disregard safety expectations may be removed from the event

  • All participants must follow staff instructions at all times

Techniques

Each athlete should refer to the combat rule sets provided above for a full understanding of rules for their specific match type.

Permitted:

  • Catching kicks momentarily (must sweep or counter within one second)

  • Controlled spinning moves
  • Controlled punches to the body and head (unless otherwise specified)
  • Kicks to the body
  • Controlled head-kicks (youth title fights, smokers, & teens only)

Prohibited:

  • No full‑power strikes

  • No knees to the head

  • No dumps, throws, plowing or slams

  • No striking a downed opponent

  • No unsportsmanlike conduct from athletes or corners

Prohibited Event Activities

  • Incomplete or inaccurate experience history — all striking and grappling experience must be truthfully listed so athletes are matched appropriately.

  • Unsafe or extreme weight‑cutting practices — weight manipulation that risks athlete health is not permitted.

  • Greasing or oil of any kind — applying substances to the face, body, or headgear is not permitted. Greasing headgear is unnecessary in youth events and creates unfair conditions by transferring to the opponent’s gloves.

  • Aggressive, disrespectful, or unsportsmanlike behaviour — coaches and corners must maintain calm, respectful conduct at all times.

  • Instruction that encourages unsafe techniques or rule‑breaking — all coaching must align with SAAMA Fight Night safety standards.

  • Interference with officials or matchmaking decisions — referee and staff decisions are final and made for athlete safety.

  • Clothing that obstructs movement or creates risk — athletes must wear attire suitable for their discipline and free of loose or restrictive fabric.

  • Clothing with pockets — pockets can catch fingers, toes, or equipment and are not permitted.

  • Unauthorized accessories — jewelry, metal hair clips, and other hard items must be removed before competition.

SAAMA is committed to providing a safe, positive, and development‑focused experience for every athlete. Thank you for supporting youth martial arts and helping us build a strong, respectful community.

bottom of page