2005 South Carolina Code of Regulations § 20-26.1. — Off The Street Boxing (e.g. Toughman, Badman, Mad of the Maddest or Bad of the Baddest [sic]).

DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION-- STATE ATHLETIC COMMISSION

SUBCHAPTER 1. DEFINITIONS, BOXING WEIGHTS AND CLASSES

20-1.1. Definitions.

The following words and terms, when used in the Chapter shall have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

"Admissions" means the amount paid for seats to witness an event and the amount that should have been paid for seats to witness an event that were given to others by the promoter free or in exchange for services, advertising anything else. Admission for contestants, officials, representatives of the Commission and the media are exempt.

"Administrator" means the person appointed by the Director of the Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulations to administer the affairs of the State Athletic Commission.

"Commission" means the State Athletic Commission.

"Commission Representative" means that individual designated by the Administrator to supervise a particular match, contest, exhibition or event in this state.

"Contestant" means any one who competes in an event regulated by the State Athletic Commission.

"Event" means anything that is regulated by the State Athletic Commission regardless of the place of origin.

"License" means that written approval given, upon application, by the Commission to any person, club, corporation, organization or association to participate in any event regulated by the State Athletic Commission.

"Manager" means any person who does any of the following:

1. By contract, agreement, or other arrangement with any person undertakes or has undertaken to represent in any way the interest in any contest in which such contestant is to participate; and is entitled under that contract, agreement or other arrangement to receive monetary or other compensation for his services without regard to the source of such compensation; except that the term "Manager" shall not be construed to mean any attorney licensed to practice in this state, whose participation in such activities is restricted solely to his representing the interests of a contestant as his client.

2. Directs or controls the professional activities of any contestant.

3. Receives or is entitled to receive a share of the gross purse, or gross income of any contest under these regulations.

"Matchmaker" means any person who undertakes to obtain agreements between managers and/or contestants for the purpose of securing contestants for any event regulated by the State Athletic Commission.

"Participant" means anyone who acts as a promoter, judge, referee, manager, contestant, trainer, second, time keeper, announcer or matchmaker in connection with any event regulated by the State Athletic Commission.

"Permit" means that written approval given, upon application by the Commission to any promoter to hold and conduct an event regulated by the State Athletic Commission at a specific time and place.

"Person" means an individual, group of individuals, business, corporation, partnership, association or collective entity.

"Physician" means any person licensed to practice medicine or osteopathy in this state.

"Promoter" means any person, club, corporation, organization or association which promotes, presents, conducts, holds or gives any boxing, wrestling, kick boxing or sparring match, contest, exhibition or event in this state.

"Purse" means the total amount paid by a promoter to the contestants for participating in an event. Sometimes referred to as "talent fee" in wrestling events.

20-1.2. Classes of Boxers.

1. Boxers shall be divided into the following classes:

a. Flyweight ......................................... 112 pounds or under

b. Bantamweight ................................... over 112 to 118 pounds

c. Featherweight .................................. over 118 to 126 pounds

d. Lightweight .................................... over 126 to 135 pounds

e. Welterweight ................................... over 135 to 147 pounds

f. Middleweight ................................... over 147 to 160 pounds

g. Light Heavyweight .............................. over 160 to 175 pounds

h. Heavyweight ....................................... all over 175 pounds

20-1.3. Weight Difference of Contestants.

No contest shall be scheduled and no contestants shall engage in a boxing contest where the weight difference shall exceed the allowance as shown in the following schedule, without written approval of the Commission.

1. 112 to 118 pounds, not more than three pounds.

2. 118 to 126 pounds, not more than five pounds.

3. 126 to 135 pounds, not more than seven pounds.

4. 135 to 147 pounds, not more than nine pounds.

5. 147 to 160 pounds, not more than 11 pounds.

6. 160 to 175 pounds, not more than 12 pounds.

7. 175 pounds and over, no limit.

20-1.4. Weighing of Boxers.

1. Weighing of all boxers for all shows must take place at a time and place designated by the Commission. This would normally be on the same day that the event is to be held.

2. Weights must be determined by a representative of the Commission.

3. Opponents should be weighed in the presence of each other.

4. Members of the press, in addition to the responsible handlers of the boxers, shall be permitted to attend the weigh-in.

5. All weights stripped.

6. Any boxer who fails to appear for the official weigh-in, within the time stipulated on the club contract, shall be subject to disciplinary action as provided for by statute or these regulations.

SUBCHAPTER 2. RING EQUIPMENT

20-2.1. Ring Dimensions; Floor Coverings.

1. The boxing ring shall not be less than 16 feet on each side nor more than 24 feet on each side square within the ring ropes.

2. The platform must extend beyond the ropes for a distance of at least eighteen inches.

3. The ring posts shall be at least 18 inches away from the ring ropes.

4. The ring floor, both within and outside the ropes must be padded to a thickness approved by the Commission's representative. Padding must be felt matting or other soft material that will not lump and must be approved by the Commission's representative.

5. There must be a top covering of canvas, duck or similar material tightly stretched and laced to the ring platform.

6. On the floor there must be a layer of Celotex Building Board Number 2 or a similar material approved by the Commission's representative. [R. 20-3.3](R 20-3.1)

20-2.2. Height of Ring.

The ring shall not be more than four feet above the floor of the building and shall be provided with suitable steps for the use of contestants. (R 20-2.15).

20-2.3. Ring Posts.

1. Ring posts shall not be less than three inches in diameter and may extend from the floor of the ring to a height of no more than 58 inches and shall be properly padded.

2. Nothing shall be attached to the ring post without approval from the Commission Representative.

20-2.4. Ring Ropes.

1. There shall be at least four ropes, not less than one inch in diameter which shall be well padded at all times.

2. The lower rope shall be not more than 18 inches above the ring floor and the top rope 52 inches above the ring floor.

20-2.5. Gong or Bell.

1. The gong or bell must not be higher than floor level of the ring platform.

2. The bell or gong must have a clear tone so that the contestants can hear the bell or gong easily.

20-2.6. Timekeeper's Chair.

The timekeeper's chair must be sufficiently high to give him a clear view of the ring.

20-2.7. Stopwatch.

The licensed timekeeper at every boxing show shall have an approved stopwatch.

20-2.8. Gloves; Additional Articles.

1. An ample supply of boxing gloves must be kept on hand by every promoter.

2. Each glove must weight at least eight ounces.

3. All gloves must in good condition or they must be discarded.

4. The Commission may require a brand new set of gloves for any event. Thumbless gloves may be used with consent of both contestants or at the discretion of the Commission.

5. All gloves must pass the inspection of the referee and/or the Commission's representative.

6. There shall be provided by the promoter a sufficient number of water buckets for the use of all contestants.

7. Promoters shall also provide powdered resin for canvas, stools, water bottles and such other articles as are required for conducting the contests.

8. A bucket or water bottle used by a contestant shall not be used again until it has been washed.

20-2.9. Scales.

Scales used for weighing-in boxers shall be of standard make, thoroughly tested and approved by the Commission's representative.

20-2.10. Ring to Be Clear of Obstructions.

1. The entire ring platform shall be cleared of all obstructions, including such articles as buckets and stools, the instant the gong indicates the beginning of a round, and none of these articles shall be placed on the ring floor until the gong has ended the round.

2. Nothing shall be placed on the ring apron unless approved by the Commission Representative.

3. No one shall be seated within six feet of the ring unless approved by the Commission or their designee.

20-2.11. Tape and Bandages.

1. Bandage on a boxer's hand or wrist shall be soft surgical bandage of gauze quality not over two inches wide and twenty yards in length for each hand. It shall be wrapped on each hand smoothly and evenly and without zigzagging, lumping or curling.

2. Bandage shall be held in place by eight feet of surgeon's adhesive tape in a width of one and one half inches, which shall be wrapped smoothly and evenly, without zigzagging, lumping or curling.

3. Bandage and tape shall be placed on the hands of a boxer in the presence of a representative of the Commission.

4. Application of a greater amount of tape [Note - or bandage] for a specific reason to the representative of the Commission, who may grant permission if conditions warrant, in which event the opponent shall have the same consideration.

20-2.12. Adhesive Tape for Protection of Hands.

If both boxers agree the Commission Representative may authorize small strips of tape between the fingers of a boxer and or one winding of surgeon's adhesive tape, one and one half inches in width, to be placed directly on each hand for protection near the wrist. Said tape may cross the back of the hand twice but shall not extend within one inch of the knuckles when the hand is clenched to make a fist.

20-2.13. Adjustment of Bandages and Tape.

All bandages and tape shall be adjusted in the dressing room in the presence of Commission's representative who shall initial such wrappings. Under no condition are bandages to be placed on the hands of the contestants until authorized by the Commission's representative.

20-2.14. Round Cards.

Each promoter may provide a sufficient supply of white, square shaped round cards, numbered on both sides from 1 to 15. These shall be visible from the ring to all spectators.

20-2.15. Steps to Boxing Ring.

In addition to the set of steps installed in each boxer's corner, a third set of steps leading to the boxing ring may be required by the Commission's representative for use exclusively by the attending physician, referee, ring announcer, round card carriers, and such other persons approved by the Commission's representative for introductions.

20-2.16. Mouth Pieces.

The promoter must have--at ringside--an adequate supply (not less than six) sterilized mouth pieces that can be formed to fit. (R.20-3.12)

SUBCHAPTER 3. RING SAFETY

20-3.1. Ring Floor Material.

Every ring used for boxing shall be equipped with one inch layer of Celotex Building Board Number 2 or a similar approved substance. Said application shall be between the floor of the ring and the canvas-covered padding. [R.20-2.1(6), R.20-3.3].

20-3.2. Ring Padding.

Ring padding shall be at a thickness approved by the Commission's representative and shall be covered by a clean, unbroken canvas. Padding shall be periodically checked to guard against loss of effectiveness through constant use.

20-3.3. Ring Aprons.

Ring aprons which extend beyond the ropes must be properly padded and shall have Celotex Building Board Number 2 or similar substance approved by the Commission's representative between the padding and the floor. [R. 20-2.1(6) R. 20-3.1].

20-3.4. Ropes, Tops of Ring Posts.

1. Steps leading into the ring shall be in diagonally opposite corners of the ring.

2. A ring stool shall be made available for each corner.

20-3.5. Emergency Equipment.

The promoter shall arrange for and provide, in addition to a ring side physician, emergency medical equipment and a certified EMT attendant to be present at ringside prior to the start of and throughout each contest.

20-3.6. Participation of Suspended Boxer.

Any boxer suspended or serving a rest period must not participate in any event without commission approval. [52-7-100].

20-3.7. Compulsory and Discretionary Eight Count; Three Knockdowns in One Round.

1. A compulsory count of eight must be taken by every boxer who is knocked down by a punch and he must take the count whether reclining or standing. (R.20-8.9 3)

2. The referee at his discretion may declare a standing eight count at any time.

3. In the interest of safeguarding the health and welfare of a boxer engaged in ring combat, three knockdowns in any one round shall be regarded as a technical knockout and the referee shall halt a contest. The referee is counseled that a man's condition may justify stopping a contest in less than three knockdowns. The referee will exercise his discriminating judgement to determine whether or not any one of all such knockdowns shall be the results of decisive blows by the opponent. If in the referee's judgement, which must be keen and incisive, the knockdowns have been indecisive and clearly with no injurious effect upon the boxer, the contest may be continued but with good sense and judgement and the boxer's welfare always paramount.

20-3.8. Use of Stimulants.

The Commission has the authority to require any participant to submit to tests for the presence of unauthorized substances. The use of any drugs, alcoholics or stimulants, or injections in any part of the body, either before or during a match, by or in behalf of any boxer is adequate grounds for revoking his license, as well as the license of the person administering the same.

20-3.9. Drugs and Other Substances.

1. Substances such as Monsel's solution; other iron or bismouth compounds, collodion, silver nitrate, ammonia or smelling salts are prohibited. The use of such modalities will result in disqualification, suspension or fine of the boxer, manager and/or trainer. The Commission or the ringside physician may specify which substances may be used.

2. The use of excessive lubricant on the body, arms or face of a boxer will not be tolerated.

3. Only water shall be administered by seconds to a boxer between rounds. Honey, electrolyte solutions, glucose, sugar or any other substance mixed with water is prohibited.

20-3.10. Vision; Head Injury.

1. No license shall be issued to any applicant for a boxer's license whose vision is so poor as to cause any examining physician to recommend that no license be granted.

2. A boxer's license may be denied to a boxer who has suffered cerebral hemorrhage or any other serious head or jaw injury.

20-3.11. Abdominal Guard.

All boxers must wear a foul-proof abdominal guard and cup which shall be examined and approved before all bouts by a representative of the Commission.

20-3.12. Mouth Pieces.

No boxer shall be permitted to perform in any contest without wearing a form fitting mouth piece. It is suggested that each boxer have a spare mouth piece in the event the one he is wearing breaks. (R.20-2.16)

20-3.13. Submission of Boxer's Record.

A boxer may be required to submit to the Commission a true record of his performances.

20-3.14. Refreshment Containers; Intoxicating Liquors.

No refreshments, drinks or food may be sold at any regulated event except in paper or plastic containers.

20-3.15. Examinations.

The Commission may order an examination of boxers at any time for the purpose of determining whether such boxers are fit and qualified to engage in future matches or exhibitions.

20-3.16. Maintaining Order.

Every promoter holding a permit to conduct a boxing match or sparring exhibition shall provide for suitable security personnel to maintain and preserve order.

20-3.17. Boxer's Record; Suspension.

1. Any boxer who sustains a succession of six defeats or a series of knockouts may be subject to suspension.

2. If a boxer is suspended in any other state such suspension shall be in effect in this state.

3. The promoter shall be responsible for providing the Commission with full details of the boxer's record.

20-3.18. Determination of Physical Circumstances.

The Commission's firm policy is that a referee's competency is accepted, but the referee shall, at all times, avail himself of the trained and expert judgment of a physician's greater knowledge of a boxer's wellbeing; and he should, at all times, feel free to call upon the physician to counsel him as to the advisability of permitting a boxer to continue or terminate a contest because of physical circumstances. The ringside physician may examine a boxer at any time he feels it necessary and may direct the referee to halt a contest if in his opinion the boxer is unable to continue [See 20-12.3(5)]

20-3.19. Physician's Recommendations.

Physicians approved by the Commission are required to file recommendations on all boxers who reveal inadequate ability for further competition.

20-3.20. Examination and Suspension After Knockout.

After a knockout or a technical knockout there shall be a 30 day suspension. After a second knockout or technical knockout within a twelve month period there shall be a 60 day suspension and a Cat scan, EEG or other medical tests may be required. In the event of a third knockout or technical knockout in a twelve month period, the Commission shall suspend the boxer for a period of 12 months or more. [R. 20-5.13]

SUBCHAPTER 4. LICENSES AND PERMITS FOR BOXING

20-4.1. General Requirement.

1. No person, club, corporation or association may be a participant in boxing bouts or sparring exhibitions in the State of South Carolina without first having obtained a license from the State Athletic Commission.

2. Additionally, no promoter may hold or conduct boxing bouts or sparring exhibitions without first having obtained a permit for the specific event.

20-4.2. Application.

1. Applications for licenses and permits as required herein shall be made upon forms prescribed by the Commission and made under oath. The license application must include a photograph showing the head and shoulders of the applicant. The license application must be made at least one week before a scheduled event except for last minute substitutions. See Section 20-4.8 for permit applications.

2. Boxers who apply for a license shall include a statement of experience and medical history and a valid license from the applicant's home state if other than South Carolina (See, Section 20-5.25).

3. Every application made by a club, association, or corporation shall include the names and addresses of all officers, and/or partners.

20-4.3. Period of Validity.

Licenses for all contestants except Off The Street Boxing are valid for a period not to exceed one year and will expire on December 31st of each calendar year. Off The Street Boxing licenses are limited to five events. Off The Street Boxing licenses will expire December 31st if the contestant has not participated in five events.

20-4.4. Documents.

All papers and documents filed with the Commission shall be the property of the Commission.

20-4.5. Suspensions.

Promoters shall not permit any person under suspension to take any part whatsoever as a participant or in arranging or conducting matches, or work during the period of suspension; however, a boxer who has been suspended because of a cut or knockout may serve as a second if he/she is properly licensed.

20-4.6. Sale or Transfer of License.

No license or permit may be sold or transferred.

20-4.7. Promoter Responsibility.

All promoters holding licenses and permits shall be absolutely responsible to the Commission for all matches or exhibitions held, given or conducted under such license and permit.

20-4.8. Permit Application and Fee.

1. Every promoter must have a current license to conduct, hold or give boxing matches or exhibitions and must apply to the Commission for a permit. The application for such permit must be in the Commission office at least two weeks before the scheduled date of the event. If the promoter does not meet such deadline, the Commission will not issue a permit until the promoter pays the mandatory fine required by law.

2. No permit may be issued unless the application includes:

a. The name and address of all participants.

b. Evidence that a policy of medical and hospital insurance satisfactory to the Commission covers every boxer (See 20-14.1).

c. Proof of a surety bond acceptable to the Commission in an amount not less than the amount of the total purse (see 20-17.11).

d. Pays the required permit fee of Fifty Dollars which shall be nonrefundable.

3. Additionally, each promoter shall provide the Commission with copies of every contract between boxers, managers and with the promoter covering all contestants in the match or exhibition for which permit is made.

4. Promoters must pay to the Commission two percent (2%) of the total admissions received at the event, at the time, and in the manner, designated by the Commission. (For Sparring and Charity events see R. 20-19.1)

5. Promoters must pay to the Commission an amount equal to the out of pocket cost of contestant investigations made by the Commission.

20-4.9. Passport (Boxers Fight Record).

The Commission may require all boxers to register for passports.

20-4.10. License Fees.

1. Annual license fees for participants shall be as follows:

WIDETABLE

NOTE--Some parts of this form are wider than one screen. To view

material that exceeds the width of this screen, use the right arrow

key. To return to the original screen, use the left arrow key.

a. Promoter ............................................................... $50.00

(Promoter must also provide a surety bond in the amount of $5,000.00. Such

bond must be issued by a company approved by the South Carolina Insurance

Commission. The Commission may require an additional bond when a permit

application is submitted if the liability of the promoter exceeds $5,000.00).

b. Judge .................................................................. $10.00

c. Referee ................................................................ $10.00

d. Manager ................................................................ $20.00

e. Boxer .................................................................. $10.00

f. Trainer ................................................................ $10.00

g. Second ................................................................. $10.00

h. Timekeeper ............................................................. $10.00

i. Announcer .............................................................. $10.00

j. Matchmaker ............................................................. $20.00

(NOTE: If a person holding a second's license applies for a manager's license the amount paid for the second's license will be credited toward the fee for the manager's license.)

20-4.11. Lost License; Duplicate.

If a license is lost, its owner may obtain a duplicate for $2.00 by written application to the State Athletic Commission.

20-4.12. Refunds for License and Permit Fees.

Fees paid for licenses and permits shall not be refundable.

SUBCHAPTER 5. BOXERS

20-5.1. Physical Examination.

1. The Commission may require any boxer or kick boxer applying for a license to be examined by a physician or physicians.

2. The Commission may order examinations of boxers at any time for the purpose of determining whether such boxers are fit and qualified to engage in future contests.

20-5.2. Age.

1. The minimum and maximum ages for professional boxing in South Carolina are 18 to 35 years old. The maximum age may be waived by unanimous vote of the Commission for a specific participant.

20-5.3. Boxer as Self-Manager.

Any boxer who has attained his 18th birthday and is not under contract to a manager can make his own matches, sign contracts and handle his own affairs.

20-5.4. First Appearance; Proof of Age.

1. Any boxer making application for his first South Carolina license must provide positive proof of his age.

2. Unless positive proof of age is provided, the Commission shall not issue a license to the applicant.

20-5.5. Boxer-Manager Contract Forms.

All boxers with managers must have boxer-manager contract forms. One copy of a completed, executed contract form shall be given to the manager, one to the boxer, and one copy shall be filed in the Commission office.

20-5.6. Release from Contract.

Release of a boxer by a manager from a boxer-manager contract shall be in writing and shall be kept on file in the State Athletic Commission office.

20-5.7. Parties to Contract to be Licensed.

1. Both parties to a boxer-manager contract must be licensed by the State Athletic Commission or the contract shall not become effective.

2. The Commission may recognize contracts on file in cooperating states.

20-5.8. Minors.

If any boxer has been licensed by the Commission who has not reached his 18th birthday, he must have written authorization from his parent or legal guardian before participating in a boxing event.

20-5.9. Club Contract.

No boxer shall participate in any bout without signing a promoter or club contract. If the boxer has a manager, the signatures of both the boxer and manager should appear on the club contract. A copy of such contract must be furnished to the Commission.

20-5.10. Payment to Boxer as Exclusive Signer of Club Contract.

When a boxer exclusively signs the club contract for a bout, the promoter shall pay to him the full purse specified in the contract.

20-5.11. Failure to Appear for Weigh-In.

Any boxer who fails to appear for the official weigh-in, within the time stipulated on the club contract, shall be subject to disciplinary action as provided for by statute or these regulations.

20-5.12. Failure to Appear for Bout.

Any contestant who fails to appear for a bout after he has signed a club contract shall be subject to disciplinary action as provided for by statute or these regulations.

20-5.13. Rest Period; Reinstatement After Knockout.

1. If a boxer has been knocked out or if a technical knockout decision has been rendered against him by a referee, such boxer shall serve a rest period as provided in Section 20-3.20.

2. The Commission may require medical proof of his physical well being for reinstatement.

20-5.14. Failure to Give Satisfactory Performance.

1. If a boxer, in the judgment of a Commission representative, fails to give a satisfactory performance, his purse shall be forwarded to the Commission.

2. All parties concerned shall be summoned to a hearing and the disposition of the purse shall be decided by the Commission.

20-5.15. Forfeit Fees.

1. The Commission may require the posting of forfeit fees by boxers, either in cash or certified check, to guarantee appearance or making of weight.

2. If said boxer fails to appear to make the agreed upon weight, the Commission may impose a fine on all or part of the forfeit money.

20-5.16. Boxer with Suspended Manager.

1. A boxer whose manager has been suspended may continue boxing independently during the term of such suspension, signing all contracts for matches.

2. No payment of a boxer's earnings may be made by any licensed club to a manager under suspension but the purse in full shall be paid to the boxer.

20-5.17. Number of Rounds.

Boxers can be matched at four, six, eight, ten or 12 rounds. The Commission may limit the number of rounds at its discretion.

20-5.18. Foul.

1. The following are fouls in boxing and boxers committing any of these infractions are subject to penalty as the referee sees fit:

a. Hitting below the belt;

b. Hitting an opponent who is down or who is getting up after being down;

c. Holding an opponent with one hand and hitting with the other;

d. Holding or deliberately maintaining a clinch;

e. Wrestling or kicking;

f. Any unsportsmanlike trick or action causing injury to an opponent;

g. Butting with the head or shoulder or using the knee;

h. Hitting with the open glove, or with the butt of the hand, the wrist, or the elbow; all backhand blows;

i. Roughing at the ropes;

j. Use of the kidney punch, which consists of punching in the back or kidney area;

k. Use of the rabbit punch, which is defined as punching to the back of the head or neck;

l. Jabbing opponent's eyes with the thumb of the glove;

m. The use of abusive language in the ring;

n. Hitting on the break;

o. Hitting after the bell has sounded ending the round.

20-5.19. Time Between Bouts.

For boxers there shall be an interval of 7 days between the dates of the bouts or for such time as shall be determined at the discretion of the Commission.

20-5.20. Inability to Perform Contract Due to Injuries or Illness.

Whenever a licensed boxer, because of injuries or illness, is unable to take part in a contest for which he is under contract, he (or his manager) must immediately report the fact to the nearest Commission representative, and the boxer shall submit to an examination by a physician. The examination fee of the physician is to be paid by the boxer.

20-5.21. Facial Hair.

All boxers must be clean and neat when they participate in ring contests. Facial hair shall be at the discretion of the Commission.

20-5.22. Boxers from the Same Stable.

Any contest between two boxers from the same stable may be held only with the approval of the Commission.

20-5.23. Disqualification of Boxer.

If a boxer persists in fouling, despite a referee's warning of clean sportsmanship, the referee shall have the right to disqualify said boxer.

20-5.24. Contest Stopped Prematurely.

When a boxing contest is stopped because of rain or other unavoidable circumstances and less than half of the scheduled number of rounds have been finished, the judges shall call the same a draw. If, under the same circumstances, half or more of the scheduled number of rounds have been completed, the judges shall render a decision.

20-5.25. Resident License.

No professional boxer who is a legal resident of a State other than South Carolina may appear in any boxing contest unless such boxer has in his possession a current South Carolina license and a current license from his state of residence unless waived by the Commission. The Commission may also require such boxer to hold a Passport from the state of residence.

20-5.26. Examination Prior to Licensing and Boxing.

Any boxer applying for a license or renewal thereof or licensed boxer scheduled to appear in any boxing contest must be examined by a physician at least one week prior to taking part in any match, or at a later date at the discretion of the Commission.

20-5.27. Grounds for Suspension of License.

Any boxer holding a license may be suspended for arrest or conviction on a charge involving moral turpitude or for unbecoming conduct at any time or place reflecting discredit to boxing. Under similar circumstances, an application for a license or renewal thereof may be summarily rejected (see 20-25.1).

SUBCHAPTER 6. MANAGERS

20-6.1. General Qualifications.

[Reserved]

20-6.2. Working in Boxer's Corner.

Any licensed manager or trainer who works in the corner of a boxer with whom he has a contract need not obtain a second's license.

20-6.3. Signatory to Boxer-Manager Contract.

Any manager who signs a boxer-manager contract must renew his manager's license during the term of the same or it shall become void at the discretion of the Commission.

20-6.4. Manager's Percentage of Ring Earnings.

The manager shall be entitled to no more than 33 1/3 per cent of the ring earnings of any boxer with whom he has a properly filed boxer-manager contract.

20-6.5. Failure to Sign Club Contract.

Any manager who fails, by reason of neglect or indifference, to execute a club contract shall be subject to disciplinary action as provided for by statute or these regulations and such dereliction shall be grounds to void a boxer/manager contract.

20-6.6. Manager Under Suspension.

A manager under suspension must not work in any boxer's corner or negotiate with any promoter or matchmaker for any boxer's services.

20-6.7. Number of Boxers in One Show; Limitation on Manager.

No manager shall be encouraged to have more than two boxers engaged on the card of any boxing show.

20-6.8. Signatories to Club Contract.

Club contract must be signed personally by the manager or by the boxer if he has no manager.

20-6.9. Acceptance by Manager.

Any manager who agrees to accept a match for the services of a boxer through the medium of any written or telegraphic means of communication shall be held accountable for his actions as if accomplished in person by a club contract.

20-6.10. License for Promoter Deals.

No unlicensed manager shall deal with any promoter or matchmaker.

20-6.11. License to Schedule Match.

No unlicensed person shall book or schedule a match until issued a manager's license.

20-6.12. Manager Representing Manager.

If a licensed manager desired to represent another licensed manager in securing contests for a boxer, such manager must have in his possession a written agreement by both the manager and boxer whom he represents. This agreement must be filed with the Commission who shall approve or disapprove recognition of such agreement.

20-6.13. Number of Managers Per Boxer.

1. No boxer can have more than one manager without expressed approval of the Commission.

2. If a boxer shall have more than one manager, all such managers should be of record with the Commission and the promoter must deal only with the licensed manager or managers so recorded.

20-6.14. Manager Attempting to Take Another Manager's Boxer.

Any manager determined by the Commission to have wrongfully taken another manager's boxer shall be subject to disciplinary action as provided for by statute or these regulations.

20-6.15. Transfer of Manager-Boxer Contract.

Contracts between a manager and boxer are not transferable without filing a proper notice thereof with the Commission attested to by all of the principals.

20-6.16. Aid for Injured Boxer.

No manager or second shall attempt to render aid to a disabled boxer before the physician has had an opportunity to examine the boxer.

20-6.17. Grounds for Suspension of License.

Any manager holding a license may be suspended for arrest or conviction on a charge involving moral turpitude or for unbecoming conduct at any time or place reflecting discredit to boxing. Under similar circumstances, application for a license or a renewal may be summarily rejected (see 20-25.2).

20-6.18. Giving Incorrect Information on Application.

Any manager who gives incorrect information on any application may be suspended by the Commission.

20-6.19. Application for Boxing Manager's License.

1. Applications for a boxing manager's license shall contain a true and complete statement of all persons connected with the management.

2. Subsequent to the granting of any such license, applicant shall submit for approval by the Commission any change at any time in the persons connected with the management.

SUBCHAPTER 7. SECONDS

20-7.1. General Qualifications.

[Reserved]

20-7.2. Number Limitation.

Two seconds and no more than three shall work in any boxer's corner. Only one of which may be in the ring at any one time.

20-7.3. Attire.

Seconds must wear clean, neat clothing.

20-7.4. Second Under Suspension.

A second under suspension shall not work in any boxer's corner.

20-7.5. Second Acting as Manager.

A second holding a second's license must obtain a manager's license to act as manager, or assist in any way in obtaining matches. If found guilty of such actions, he shall be suspended.

20-7.6. Coaching and/or Assisting During Round Prohibited.

Second must not coach, or in any way assist a principal during a round or by word or act attempt to heckle or annoy his opponent. They must remain seated in place and be silent.

20-7.7. Grounds for Suspension of License.

Any second holding a license may be suspended for arrest or conviction on a charge involving moral turpitude or for unbecoming conduct at any time or place reflecting discredit to boxing. Under similar circumstances, application for a license or a renewal thereof may be summarily rejected.

20-7.8. Giving Incorrect Information on Application.

Any second who gives incorrect information on any application may be suspended by the Commission.

20-7.9. Aid to Injured Boxer.

No second or manager shall attempt to render aid to a disabled boxer before the physician has had an opportunity to examine the boxer.

20-7.10. Termination of Boxer's Performance.

Any second may terminate the performance of the boxer he is serving either between rounds or during the progress of any boxing contest in which such boxer is a contestant.

SUBCHAPTER 8. BOXING REFEREES AND JUDGES

20-8.0. Requirements for License as Referee or Judge: Expiration and Renewal of License.

1. To qualify for a license as a referee or judge of boxing contests an applicant must:

a. Be at least 21 years of age:

b. Not have been convicted of a felony or other crime involving moral turpitude:

c. Submit references from three persons of his/her character and ability; and

d. Except as otherwise provided in this section, must attain a score of eighty-five (85) percent on such examination as the Commission requires and successfully complete an apprenticeship if established by the commission.

2. In lieu of the examination and internship, the commission may accept satisfactory evidence of equivalent qualifications possessed by an applicant who:

a. Is currently licensed in another state or country; or

b. Formerly held a South Carolina license which lapsed in good standing.

3. A person holding a current South Carolina license or who formerly held a South Carolina license which lapsed in good standing may be licensed by the Commission without examination or internship to perform an officiating function other than that for which he is or was licensed if the Commission determines that he is qualified to perform that function.

4. The Commission will determine when additional ring officials are needed and when licensing examinations for ring officials will be conducted.

5. Each license issued pursuant to this section is valid until December 31 of each year. An application with the proper fee for renewal must be submitted to the Commission by December 1, of each year accompanied by the appropriate renewal fee. The renewal of a license is not automatic. The applicant's past performance and abilities may be considered in evaluating his application for renewal.

20-8.1. Selection and Assignment.

The Director of Labor, Licensing and Regulations or his/her designee shall select and assign boxing referee and/or judges (see R. 20-8.27). Any negotiations, arrangements, agreements or contracts concerning compensation of referees and judges shall be the sole responsibility and concern of the promoter and the said referee or judge.

20-8.2. Chief Ring Official.

The referee shall be the chief official of every boxing match and shall remain in the ring during the entire time of the contest.

20-8.3. Reporting for Duty; Number Per Show; Restrictions.

1. Referees must report for duty at least one hour before the scheduled starting time of the show.

2. At least two referees will be assigned for each show.

3. Referees must first report to their dressing room or other designated place where their blood pressure and pulse will be checked by the physician, then to ringside. All referees must stay at ringside when not officiating and will avoid conversation except with Commission officials.

20-8.4. Physical Examination.

Referees must submit physicians statements prior to license renewal.

20-8.5. Apparel.

Apparel required for boxing referees shall be a light colored shirt and dark trousers. The person designated as the Commission representative or as the chief of officials may require specific colors and a bow tie.

20-8.6. Chief Second's Responsibility.

The referee shall, before starting a contest, ascertain from each participant the name of his chief second, and shall hold said chief second responsible for the conduct of his assistant seconds during the progress of the contest.

20-8.7. Mid-Ring Instructions.

The referee shall call participants together before each bout for final instructions, covering good sportsmanship and the eight-count, at which time each contestant shall be accompanied by his chief second only. The principals, after receiving instructions, shall shake hands and retire to their corners. They shall not again shake hands until the beginning of the last round.

20-8.8. Persons in Ring During Round.

No persons other than the participants and the referee may be in the ring during the progress of a round.

20-8.9. Knockdown of Participant; Count.

1. When a participant has been knocked down the referee shall order the opponent to go to the farthest neutral corner of the ring, pointing to the corner, and promptly pick up the count from timekeeper or other person who may have been designated as the counter for knockdowns.

2. He shall audibly announce the passing of the seconds, accompanying the count with motions of his arm, the downward motion indicating the end of each second.

3. Any contestant who is knocked down shall not be allowed to resume boxing until after the referee has finishing counting eight.

4. The participant may take this count either on the floor or standing if he has not been struck hard enough to keep him down.

5. Should the opponent fail to stay in the farthest neutral corner, the referee may cease counting until he has returned to it, and then go on with the count from the point at which it was interrupted.

20-8.10. Knockout of Participant; Count.

1. If the contestant taking the count is still down when the referee calls the count of "ten" the referee shall wave both arms to indicate that he has been knocked out.

2. The referee's count is the official count.

20-8.11. End of Round Knockout.

When a round in any boxing contest, except the last round, shall terminate before a participant who has been knocked down shall have risen from the floor of the ring, the timekeeper's and referee's count shall be continued, and, if the fallen participant shall fail to rise before the count of ten, he shall be considered to have lost the bout by a knockout in any round.

20-8.12. Touching Boxers; "Break".

The referee shall not touch the boxers, except on the failure of one or both to obey a command to "break".

20-8.13. Stopping a Bout.

1. The referee may, in his discretion, stop a bout to protect a badly beaten boxer. The referee may stop a contest if he considers it too one-sided. In cases where a boxer sustains a cut eye or any other injury which the referee feels may incapacitate the boxer, the referee may, at any time, call into the ring the ring physician for examination of the boxer. In such cases the referee shall be guided by the physician's advice. [See 20-12.3(5)]

2. If a boxer loses his mouth piece, the referee shall stop the fight and replace it. There shall be no penalty for the first such loss. If the referee determines that subsequent losses of the mouth piece are intentional, he may penalize the boxer one (1) point for each such occurrence.

3. If an accidental butt disables a boxer in the first or second round, the referee shall declare the bout "no contest". If such butt occurs after the second round, the referee will award the decision to the boxer with the most points at the end of the preceding round.

20-8.14. Failure to Answer Bell.

If any boxer fails to answer the bell after his rest period between rounds, the referee shall declare his opponent the winner by a TKO in the round coming up. The judges shall so indicate on their scorecards.

20-8.15. Inspection of Gloves.

The referee shall inspect the gloves and make sure that no foreign substances have been applied to either the gloves or any part of the boxer's head or body to the detriment of an opponent.

20-8.16. Knocked Down Construed.

1. A boxer shall be considered by the referee to be knocked down when any part of his body other than his feet is on the ring floor, he is hanging helplessly over the ropes, or rising from a "down" position.

2. A boxer hanging over the ropes is not officially "down" until so pronounced by the referee, who can count the boxer out either on the ropes or on the floor.

3. If a boxer who is down is hit the offending boxer shall be penalized one point. If such hit causes a knockout the offending boxer shall be disqualified.

20-8.17. Failure to Compete or Foul.

1. In any case where the referee decides that the participants are not honestly competing or are fouling, the bout should be stopped.

2. A participant earns nothing and shall not be paid for an exhibition or contest in which there is stalling, faking or dishonesty or collusion.

3. The Commission shall determine the merits of any such contest and take whatever action is considered proper.

4. In any such case the representative of the Commission should order the purse of the offender held up and forwarded to the Commission for investigation and action.

20-8.18. Ten Point Must Scoring System.

1. The ten point must system of scoring shall govern the decision.

2. At the conclusion of each round, the judges must give his scorecard to the scorekeeper. The boxer who has the most points on each scorecard is the winner. The scorekeeper maintains an accumulative total for each participant. [see 20-8.18 (4)] The decision of the majority of the judges shall be final (20-8.17).

a. If the boxer is slightly superior to his opponent in such round, ten points must be scored for such boxer, and the score of nine points marked down for his opponent.

b. If a boxer wins a round decisively, ten points should be scored for such boxer, and the score of eight points marked down on his opponent.

c. If a boxer wins a round decisively with a knockdown or knockdowns, ten points should be scored for such a boxer, and the score of seven points marked down for his opponent.

3. If a referee penalizes a boxer for a foul the referee shall notify the judges and the announcer who shall declare it to the public at the end of the round.

4. The referee may take points away from a boxer because of improper use of mouth piece. [see 20-8.13 (2)]

5. If the scorecards when tallied do not establish a winner the decision shall be a draw.

6. The referee or other designee shall collect the scorecards at the end of each round and submit them to the scorekeeper who shall maintain an accumulative total for each contestant separably by judge. At the end of the contest the scorekeeper shall determine the total for each judge scoring. He shall give that total to the Commission representative. After verifying the totals the Commission representative shall give the totals to the announcer who shall announce the decision of the judges.

7. Decisions shall be given in all contest.

20-8.19. Boxer Fallen or Knocked Through Ropes; Return Unassisted.

1. If a participant has been knocked or has fallen out of the ring during a contest, the referee shall at once order the other boxer to a neutral corner and shall inform the timekeeper to suspend time until directed to resume time from the point of interruption for the duration of the round.

2. The participant who has fallen or has been knocked out of the ring must return to the ring unassisted by his seconds. If he is unable to do so within twenty (20) seconds the timekeeper shall notify the referee who shall begin the official count.

20-8.20. No Foul Rule.

No participant may be awarded a contest on a claim of a low-blow foul nor may a participant lose by reason of a low-blow foul. Participants are presumed to be properly protected by safety equipment.

20-8.21. Repealed by State Register Volume 12, Issue No. 6, eff June 24, 1988.

20-8.22. Verbal or Physical Abuse of Referee.

Any licensee who verbally or physically abuses a referee may be suspended indefinitely.

20-8.23. Low Blow; Referee's Notice.

Whenever the referee shall observe a blow delivered below the belt, he shall, as a means of notice to the fans and the offender, step between the boxers and with his free hand make a sweeping motion upwards from the floor as a warning to the offender to raise his punches and to refrain from delivering any other low blows.

20-8.24. Knocked Out Boxer; Treatment by Physician.

A boxer who is knocked out must not be touched or moved by anyone except with the approval of the physician. The physician shall determine the methods of resuscitation.

20-8.25. Persistent Fouling.

1. Persistent fouling by a boxer in spite of the referee's warnings, and in violation of clean sportsmanship, may, in the judgment of the referee, result in disqualification of the offender.

2. In any such case the representative of the Commission should order the purse of the offender held up and forwarded to the Commission for investigation and action. The action may include seizure of the entire purse or any portion thereof. 10% of the seized purse shall be deposited pursuant to Act 453. The remainder may be donated to Commission approve domestic and family violence charities in South Carolina.

20-8.26. Change of Decision by Commission.

The Commission may in its discretion change a referee's decision if in its judgment a palpable and self-evident error has been committed.

20-8.27. Judges; Majority Vote.

The Director of Labor, Licensing and Regulation or his/her designee shall designate four judges three of whom shall be used in each contests who, by a majority vote, shall render a decision in any boxing contest. [R. 20-8.1]

20-8.28. Substitution of Referee or Judge.

1. In the event a referee or judge becomes unable to continue his/her duties during a boxing contest, time out shall be called and another official shall be immediately assigned by the Commission representative or chief of officials to replace the incapacitated person.

2. It shall be mandatory for such substituted judge to continue scoring on the scorecard used by the incapacitated judge and such scorecard shall be the official scorecard in the determination of a decision at the conclusion of the boxing contest.

3. The substituted judge must resume the round from the time of his substitution, for the incapacitated judge.

SUBCHAPTER 9. COMMISSION REPRESENTATIVE

20-9.1. General Supervisory Duties.

The Commission representative shall be in charge of shows for the purpose of:

1. Enforcing regulations issued by the Commission which includes but is not limited to:

a. Licensing contestants and all other participants according to the requirements of the rules of this Chapter.

b. Collecting unpaid promoter's fees.

c. Seeing that boxers and officials are paid.

d. Supervising gate entrances.

e. Completing his report and forwarding the same with collected fees to the Commission within 72 hours.

Verbal or physical abuse of any Commissioner, the Commission Representative or any person representing the Commission shall be a violation of the act establishing this commission and shall be subject to the penalties authorize in sections 52-7-60, 52-7-65 and 52-7-150 of the South Carolina Code of Laws.

20-9.2. Attendance at Weigh-In.

A Commission representative must attend the weigh-in as well as the performances.

20-9.3. Receipt Book.

1. If a Commission representative has been furnished a receipt book he shall carry it with him at all times during an event.

2. Receipts are made out in triplicate; one copy for the person paying the fee, one copy to forward to the Commission office together with his report and the third copy to remain in the book.

3. When each receipt book is completed the Commission representative must return it to the office immediately.

4. If the Commission Representative has not been issued a receipt book he must use the forms provided by the Commission.

20-9.4. Forwarding of Scorecards.

The Commission representative at boxing shows must obtain the judges scorecards and forward them to the Commission in addition to the other required reports.

20-9.5. Check of Substitute Boxers.

When substitutions occur in any boxing show, the Commission representative must thoroughly check the substitute's record, including his last five bouts, license, suspension status, name of his manager, if any, and any other pertinent information. The cost of such investigation will be paid by the promoter.

20-9.6. Special Reports on Performances.

Commission representatives shall, when the occasion requires, submit special reports on performance of the boxers, recommendations for suspensions or unusual incidents.

20-9.7. Check of Seconds' Compliance with Rules.

Commission representatives shall see that all seconds present a neat appearance according to the rules of this Chapter.

20-9.8. Assure Enforcement of Regulations.

Commission representatives shall see that all necessary equipment is provided, that the participants are ready on time, that the seconds are properly instructed in their duties and that all regulations pertaining to the proper conduct of the bout are enforced.

20-9.9. Report of Injuries.

Commission representatives shall make an inquiry of all boxers after their bouts, in cooperation with the physicians, and shall report any injuries to the Commission within 72 hours.

20-9.10. Forwarding of Receipts.

Commission representatives must forward voided receipts as well as all other receipts from receipt books in their custody promptly after the conduct of any show to which they are assigned.

SUBCHAPTER 10. ANNOUNCERS

20-10.1. Designation; Approval; License.

Announcers may be designated by the promoters with the approval of the Commission and must be licensed by the Commission.

20-10.2. Authorization to Announce.

Announcers are forbidden to make any announcement whatsoever except as authorized to do so by the promoter with the consent of the Commission representative at the ringside.

20-10.3. Announcement of Contestants' Names and Weights.

After contestants and their chief seconds are in the ring, the boxing announcer shall announce the names of the contestants, their correct weights and other matters as may be directed by the Commission representative.

20-10.4. Announcement of Contest Results.

Boxing announcers shall announce the judges' decisions at the end of contests and in the event of knockouts, the time of same and the round of occurrence.

20-10.5. Neutrality.

1. Announcers must not in any way by word or action attempt to show any partisanship inside or outside the ring.

2. They must remain seated in place and be silent except when making official announcements.

20-10.6. Introducing Suspended Person.

1. Boxing announcers must not at any time introduce from any ring any boxer or other person who is under suspension.

2. The manner of the announcement shall be directed by the Commission representative.

SUBCHAPTER 11. TIMEKEEPERS

20-11.1. Approval and License.

Timekeepers shall be approved and licensed by the Commission.

20-11.2. Stop-Watch.

A timekeeper shall have an accurate stop-watch.

20-11.3. Time of Round; Rest Period.

1. Each round of boxing shall be three minutes unless approved in advance by the Commission representative, however, in the event of a knockdown near the end of a round the round shall continue until the official count has ended.

2. Each rest period between rounds shall be one minute.

20-11.4. Warning Signal.

Ten seconds before the beginning of each round the timekeeper shall give warning to the seconds of the contestants by sounding a signal.

20-11.5. Termination Before Scheduled Limit.

In the event a boxing contest terminates before the scheduled limit of rounds, the timekeeper shall inform the announcer of the exact duration of the contest.

20-11.6. Location Near Bell.

A timekeeper shall be seated close to the bell at ringside. Adequate space must be provided to allow the timekeeper complete freedom of motion.

20-11.7. Signals During Rounds.

Except for the official ten-second signal, a timekeeper at a boxing match must not give any signal or information on the duration of any round in progress in any contest.

20-11.8. Termination Between Rounds.

1. If a boxing bout shall terminate between rounds by decision of the referee or at the request of a corner, the timekeeper shall sound the bell as a signal for the next round.

2. The contest shall then be considered as having terminated in the round for which the bell was sounded and likewise the referee shall be considered to have counted "ten" as in the case of a knockout.

20-11.9. Count for Knockdowns.

The timekeeper may be designated to initiate the count in the event of a knockdown.

SUBCHAPTER 12. PHYSICIANS

20-12.1. Approval and Assignment.

Physicians shall be arranged for by the promoter and approved by the Commission.

20-12.2. Examination of Boxers.

Physicians assigned to boxing shows must examine each contestant thoroughly at the weigh-in.

20-12.3. Position at Ringside.

1. Physicians shall sit at the immediate ringside at all boxing shows.

2. No boxing bout or exhibition shall be allowed to proceed unless the physician is in his seat.

3. The physician shall not leave until after the final bout or exhibition.

4. He shall be prepared to assist if any serious emergency shall arise and shall render temporary or emergency treatment for cuts or other injuries sustained by the participants.

5. The ringside physician may examine a boxer at any time he feels it necessary and may direct the referee to halt a contest if in his opinion either contestant is unable to continue. [See 20-3.18]

20-12.4. Completion of Injury Form.

Physicians must fill out and return to the Commission immediately after a boxing show a printed injury form, reporting serious injuries. The form shall be given to the Commission representative.

20-12.5. Report to Commission.

Physicians must submit written reports to the Commission representative immediately following the examinations.

20-12.6. Unfit Participant.

Physicians must rule off the card any boxer at a weigh-in who is found physically unfit.

SUBCHAPTER 13. TELEVISION, MOVING PICTURE, RADIO

20-13.1. Commission Fee.

1. Every person, club, corporation, organization or association who shall hold any boxing, wrestling, kick boxing (full contact karate) or sparring exhibition or performance in this State shall pay to the Commission ten per cent of the gross receipts received by reason of the lease or sale of television, moving picture or radio rights in connection with any such exhibition or performance.

2. The Commission may by unanimous vote negotiate for a lesser amount.

20-13.2. Forms.

Special forms to accompany the payment of the television fee shall be provided by the Commission to promoters whose shows are televised.

20-13.3. Copy of Agreement Furnished to Commission.

The Commission must be furnished by the promoter with true copies, properly notarized, of any and all agreements between promoters and television, moving picture or radio sponsors, stations or companies.

20-13.4. Time for Payment.

The television fee must be paid the same night of a show unless arrangements are made at least five days before the event. Such arrangements must be in writing.

20-13.5. Closed Circuit Television.

1. Any person who charges and receives an admission fee for exhibiting via closed circuit television any boxing or sparring match, including kick boxing (full contact karate), or wrestling exhibitions must obtain from the Athletic Commission an annual license. Application for an annual license must be on a form provided by, or acceptable to, the Commission, and accompanied by a Fifty Dollar ($50.00) license fee.

2. Additionally, such person must apply to the Commission for a permit for each location at which any such telecast will be shown at least two weeks prior to such event. If the promoter does not meet such deadline, the Commission will not issue a permit until the promoter pays the mandatory fine required by law. If additional locations for telecast showings are arranged after the permit application has been sent to the Commission there shall be no penalty for such late arrangement provided the Commission is notified within twenty four hours of such arrangement. Each such notification must be accompanied by the permit fee described below:

a. Each application for a permit must be accompanied by Fifty Dollars ($50.00) in certified funds for each location at which the event will be telecast. Fees for locations that are arranged after the permit has been submitted must be sent to the Commission within twenty four hours after the arrangement has been made.

b. The promoter may elect to pay a permit fee of One Thousand Dollars ($1,000.00) at the time the permit application is filed in lieu of Fifty Dollars ($50.00) for each location. The promoter must notify the Commission of each location within twenty four hours of the time such location has been contracted to show the telecast or will receive the mandatory fine required by law.

3. Promoters must pay to the Commission two percent (2%) of the total admissions to the event, at the time, and in the manner, designated by the Commission.

SUBCHAPTER 14. INSURANCE FOR BOXERS

20-14.1. Proof of Insurance.

1. Each licensed promoter shall be required to submit evidence of a policy of medical and hospital insurance satisfactory to the Commission at the time application is made to the Commission for a permit.

2. Proof that premium has been paid by certified funds is required.

3. Off the Street Boxing [See R. 20-25.4]

20-14.2. Coverage.

1. Insurance will cover boxers for medical, surgical and hospital care in amounts to be designated by the Commission.

2. In the event of accidental death, an amount designated by the Commission will be paid to the estate of the deceased.

20-14.3. Cost of Insurance.

The cost of insurance is to be borne by the promoter.

SUBCHAPTER 15. TICKETS [REPEALED]

20-15.1, 20-15.2. Repealed by State Register Volume 20, Issue 6, Part 1, eff June 28, 1996.

20-15.1, 20-15.2. Repealed by State Register Volume 20, Issue 6, Part 1, eff June 28, 1996.

SUBCHAPTER 16. AMATEUR BOXING [REPEALED]

20-16.1, 20-16.2. Repealed by State Register Volume 20, Issue 6, Part 1, eff June 28, 1996.

20-16.1, 20-16.2. Repealed by State Register Volume 20, Issue 6, Part 1, eff June 28, 1996.

SUBCHAPTER 17. PROMOTERS

20-17.1. General Responsibility.

A licensed promoter will be held responsible for any failure in adhering to or enforcement of the rules and regulations of the Commission. The Commission may at its discretion video or require, the promoter to furnish videos of the event to the Commission. The promoter is responsible for properly identifying all contestants and for preventing overmatch contest. (R 20-18.2)

20-17.2. Intermissions.

Promoters shall not permit intermissions at boxing shows to exceed 15 minutes subject to the approval of the Commission or the Commission's representative.

20-17.3. Repealed by State Register Volume 12, Issue No. 6, eff June 24, 1988.

20-17.4. Dealings with Persons Under Suspension.

Promoters and their matchmakers shall take notice of suspensions and shall not permit any person under suspension to take any part whatsoever as a participant.

20-17.5. Grounds for Suspension of License.

Any promoter holding a license may be suspended for arrest or conviction on a charge involving moral turpitude or for unbecoming conduct at any time or place reflecting discredit to boxing.

20-17.6. Maintenance of Order; Responsibility.

1. Promoters will be held responsible for maintaining order, and any person who is intoxicated, abusive or disorderly in conduct, to the annoyance of surrounding spectators, must be ejected.

2. Promoters must supply adequate security in order that order may be maintained and all laws and regulations enforced.

20-17.7. Minimum/Maximum Schedule of Rounds per Program.

Promoters shall not schedule less than 25 nor more than 60 rounds of boxing on one program.

20-17.8. Time of Main Event.

1. The Main Event may not start later than 10 P.M. unless approved by the Commission Representative.

2. If the semifinal or other advertised bouts have not been held they shall be put on after the main bout.

20-17.9. Filing of Boxing Contracts; Secret Agreements.

1. Copies of all boxing contracts between or among any participants must be filed with the Commission at the designated time before the event.

2. The making of secret agreements contrary to the terms of the contracts so filed is prohibited under penalty of suspension of all parties thereto.

20-17.10. Nonprofit and Charitable Events.

Events sponsored, promoted or conducted by nonprofit and/or charitable organizations shall be subject to all the provisions of these rules and regulations; however, the Commission may waive all or part of any required fees for good cause shown. (See 20-24.16)

20-17.11. Posting of Surety Bond or Certified Check.

Licensed promoters shall post with the Commission a surety bond or certified check acceptable to the Commission in an amount not less than the amount of the total purse.

20-17.12. Promoter Participating as a Contestant.

No promoter shall participate as a contestant in any event in which the promoter is involved as a promoter or a matchmaker.

SUBCHAPTER 18. MATCHMAKERS

20-18.1. Observance of Rules.

Matchmakers must observe all the rules and requirements with respect to weight agreements, weighing-in and the proper execution and filing of contracts and advance notices. The matchmaker is responsible for properly identifying all contestants.

20-18.2. Uneven Matches.

Matchmakers and promoters will be held responsible if they make matches in which one of the principals is outclassed.

20-18.3. Dealings with Unlicensed Manager.

Any matchmaker who deals with an unlicensed manager may have his license revoked or suspended and he may be subject to such fine as the Commission may determine.

20-18.4. Dealings with Unlicensed Persons.

No matchmaker shall permit any unlicensed person to book or schedule a match for any boxer until said person has been issued a license.

20-18.5. Dealings with Persons Under Suspension.

Matchmakers shall not permit any person under suspension to take any part whatsoever in any match or in the planning of any match.

20-18.6. Grounds for Suspension of License.

Any matchmaker holding a license may be suspended for arrest or conviction on a charge involving moral turpitude or for unbecoming conduct at any time or place reflecting discredit to boxing.

20-18.7. Submission of Names and Addresses of Contestants.

True names, aliases and addresses of all contestants signed to appear on a boxing show must be submitted to the Commission by the matchmaker at least ten days in advance of the date of the show.

20-18.8. Matches for One Club Only.

A matchmaker can make matches for only one club unless special written permission is obtained from the Commissioner.

20-18.9. Matchmaker Participating as a Contestant.

No matchmaker shall participate as a contestant in any event in which he/she is involved as a matchmaker.

SUBCHAPTER 19. SPARRING AND CHARITY EVENTS

20-19.1. Fee.

Sparring and charity events shall be subject to all rules and regulations; however, the fees may be negotiated. [See R. 20-4.8 4.]

SUBCHAPTER 20. FEMALE BOXERS

20-20.1. Female Boxers.

(Same rules as for male boxers plus the following)

1. No applicant shall be contracted for or engage in a contest between male and female.

2. Contests will be limited to four rounds of two minutes duration.

3. Custom fitted mouthpiece must be used of the same variety required of male boxers.

4. Gloves weighing not less than eight ounces will be worn.

5. A breast protector must be used in lieu of a foul proof abdominal guard.

6. Hair must be secured in a manner which will not interfere with the vision or safety of either contestant.

7. EACH CONTESTANT WILL PROVIDE HERSELF WITH TWO UNIFORMS CONSISTING OF CONTRASTING COLOR, BODY SHIRT, BLOUSE AND SHORTS.

8. Contestants must sign, in addition to the contract, an addendum indicating that, to the best of their knowledge, they are not pregnant and that the contest will not take place during a menstrual period.

9. Promoters will provide adequate separate dressing rooms.

10. MINIMUM USE OF COSMETICS.

11. The annual physical examination must include a pelvic examination. Prior to each contest, the examining physician shall make an abdominal examination and note any masses, and make a breast examination and note any masses.

SUBCHAPTER 21. HEARINGS AND SUBPOENA OF WITNESSES

20-21.1. Investigations and Hearings Held by Commission.

1. Any commissioner or any representative designated by him may make investigations and the Commission may hold hearings and issue subpoenas to compel the attendance of witnesses.

2. The Commission also may order production of books, papers or records needed for any hearing.

3. When the hearing takes place any commissioner may administer oaths to and examine any witnesses for the purpose of clarifying the questions for which the hearing was called.

20-21.2. Disciplinary Action.

Any person or entity required by law to be licensed by this Commission shall be subject to disciplinary action for any violation of these regulations or order of the Commission. Upon hearing and its determination of just cause existing, the Commission may, in its discretion, impose civil penalty, suspension or revocation of a license held. Any such violation shall also constitute grounds for the Commission's refusal to renew any license.

SUBCHAPTER 22. COUNTY ATHLETIC COMMISSIONS

20-22.1. Designation as Commission Representative.

The Director of the Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulations or his designee may designate the County Athletic Commission or a member there of as its official representative at events within such county.

SUBCHAPTER 23. KICK BOXING (FULL CONTACT KARATE)

20-23.1. Conduct of Kick Boxing (Full Contact Karate) Events.

1. All kick boxing (full contact karate) events shall be held under the rules and regulations in effect for the Professional Karate Association, the International Sport Karate Association, or such other professional organization as the Commission approves, except where those rules and regulations conflict with South Carolina law, rules or regulations, in which case South Carolina law, rules or regulations shall apply, however, there shall be an interval of at least seven (7) days between bouts or for such time as shall be determined at the discretion of the Commission.

2. The commission may require a kick boxer or an official to be given a physical examination and may take such disciplinary action as authorized by law.

20-23.2. Licenses and Permits--General Requirements.

1. No person, club, corporation or association may be a participant in kick boxing (full contact karate) bouts or sparring exhibitions in the State of South Carolina without first having obtained a license from the State Athletic Commission.

2. No promoter may hold or conduct kick boxing (full contact karate) bouts or sparring exhibitions without first having obtained a permit for the specific event. [See R. 20-23.9]

20-23.3. Application.

1. Applications for licenses and permits as required herein shall be made upon forms prescribed by the Commission, made under oath, and contain a photograph depicting the head and shoulders of the applicant.

2. Kick boxers who apply for a license shall include a statement of experience and medical history and a valid license from the applicant's home state if other than South Carolina [See 20-5.25].

3. Every application made by a club, association, or corporation shall include the names and addresses of all officers, and/or partners.

20-23.4. Period of Validity.

Licenses are valid for a period not to exceed one year and will expire on December 31st of each calendar year.

20-23.5. Documents.

All papers and documents filed with the Commission shall be the property of the Commission.

20-23.6. Suspensions.

Promoters shall not permit any person under suspension to take any part whatsoever as a participant or in arranging or conducting matches, or work during the period of suspension.

20-23.7. Sale or Transfer of License.

No license or permit may be sold or transferred.

20-23.8. Promoter Responsibility.

1. All promoters holding licenses and permits shall be absolutely responsible to the Commission for all matches or exhibitions held, given or conducted under such license and permit.

2. No promoter shall participate as a contestant in any show in which he/she is involved as a promoter or matchmaker. The promoter is responsible for properly identifying all contestants.All promoters holding licenses and permits shall be absolutely responsible to the Commission for all matches or exhibitions held, given or conducted under such license and permit.

20-23.9. Permit Application and Fee.

1. Every promoter must have a current license to conduct, hold or give kick boxing matches or exhibitions and must apply to the Commission for a permit. Application for such permit must be in the Commission office at least two weeks before the scheduled date of the event. If the promoter does not meet such deadline, the Commission will not issue a permit until the promoter pays the mandatory fine required by law.

2. No permit may be issued unless the applicant:

a. Provides the name and address of all participants;

b. Provides evidence that a policy of medical and hospital insurance satisfactory to the Commission covers every kick boxer;

c. Files a surety bond acceptable to the Commission with the application in an amount not less than the amount of the total purse.

d. Pays the required permit fee of Fifty Dollars which shall be nonrefundable.

3. Additionally, each promoter shall provide the Commission with copies of every contract between kick boxers, managers and with the promoter covering all contestants in the match or exhibition for which permit is made.

4. Promoters must pay to the Commission two percent (2%) of the total admissions received at the event, at the time, and in the manner, designated by the Commission.

5. Promoters must pay to the Commission an amount equal to the out of pocket cost of contestant investigations made the by the Commission.

20-23.10. Passport.

The Commission may require all kick boxers to register for passports.

20-23.11. License Fees.

1. Annual license fees for participants shall be as follows:

WIDETABLE

NOTE--Some parts of this form are wider than one screen. To view

material that exceeds the width of this screen, use the right arrow

key. To return to the original screen, use the left arrow key.

a. Promoter ............................................................... $50.00

(Promoter must also provide a surety bond in the amount of $5,000.00 such

bond to be issued by a company approved by the South Carolina Insurance

Commission - the Commission may require bond when a permit application is

submitted if the promoter's liability exceeds $5,000.00)

b. Judge .................................................................. $10.00

c. Referee ................................................................ $10.00

d. Manager ................................................................ $20.00

e. Kick boxer ............................................................. $10.00

f. Trainer ................................................................ $10.00

g. Second ................................................................. $10.00

h. Timekeeper ............................................................. $10.00

i. Announcer .............................................................. $10.00

j. Matchmaker ............................................................. $20.00

20-23.12. Lost License; Duplicate.

If a license is lost, its owner may obtain a duplicate for $2.00 by written application to the State Athletic Commission.

20-23.13. Refunds for License and Permit Fees.

Fees paid for licenses and permits shall not be refundable.

20-23.14. Amateur Kick Boxing (Full Contact Karate).

See Section 20-16.1.

20-23.15. Amateur Kick Boxing in Conjunction with Professional Contests.

No amateur kick boxing contests shall be conducted in connection with any professional event, and no amateur boxer shall appear on a professional card, unless the event or card is held under the jurisdiction of the Professional Karate Association.

20-23.16. Non-Profit and Charitable Events.

See Section 20-17.10.

SUBCHAPTER 24. WRESTLING

20-24.1. Professional Wrestling Exhibitions and Entertainment.

All professional wrestling performances are exhibitions and entertainment, and are not contests.

20-24.2. Licenses and Permits--General Requirements.

1. No person, club, corporation or association may be a participant in wrestling bouts or sparring exhibitions in the State of South Carolina without first having obtained a license from the State Athletic Commission.

2. Additionally, no promoter may hold or conduct wrestling bouts or sparring exhibitions without first having obtained a permit from the Commission.

20-24.3. Application.

1. Applications for licenses and permits as required herein shall be made upon forms prescribed by the Commission, made under oath, and contain a photograph depicting the head and shoulders of the applicant.

2. Wrestlers who apply for a license shall include a statement of experience and medical history.

3. Every application made by a club, association, or corporation shall include the names and addresses of all officers, and/or partners.

20-24.4. Period of Validity.

Licenses are valid for a period not to exceed one year and will expire on December 31st of each calendar year.

20-24.5. Documents.

All papers and documents filed with the Commission shall be the property of the Commission.

20-24.6. Suspensions.

Promoters shall not permit any person under suspension to take any part whatsoever as a participant or in arranging or conducting matches, or work during the period of suspension.

20-24.7. Sale or Transfer of License.

No license or permit may be sold or transferred.

20-24.8. Promoter Responsibility.

All promoters holding licenses and permits shall be absolutely responsible to the Commission for all matches or exhibitions held, given or conducted under such license and permit.

20-24.9. Permit Applications and Fees.

1. Every promoter must have a current license to conduct, hold or give wrestling matches or exhibitions and must secure a permit from the Commission before conducting any match or exhibition.

2. Permits for Single Events

a. Application for single wrestling event permits must be in the Commission office at least two weeks before the event. If the promoter does not meet such deadline, the Commission will not issue a permit until the promoter pays the mandatory fine required by law. No permit will be issued unless the applicant:

(1) Provides the names and addresses of all anticipated participants and of the event location;

(2) Pays the required permit fee of Fifty Dollars;

b. Promoters must pay to the Commission two percent (2%) of the total admissions to the event, at the time, and in the manner, designated by the Commission.

c. Additionally, the Commission may require:

1. Evidence that a policy of medical and hospital insurance satisfactory to the Commission covers every wrestler;

2. A surety bond or certified check acceptable to the Commission in an amount not less than the anticipated total talent fees, or proof of financial responsibility acceptable to the Commission.

3. The Commission may issue special permits to promoters holding multiple events during a given calendar year, upon the promoter's satisfaction of special permit requirements and fee terms set by the Commission.

3, 4. [Deleted]

20-24.10. License Fees.

1. Annual license fees for participants shall be as follows:

WIDETABLE

NOTE--Some parts of this form are wider than one screen. To view

material that exceeds the width of this screen, use the right arrow

key. To return to the original screen, use the left arrow key.

a. Promoter ............................................................... $50.00

(Promoter must also provide a surety bond in the amount of $5,000.00 issued

by a company approved by the South Carolina Insurance Commission. The

commission may require an additional bond when a permit application is

submitted. If the liability of the promoter exceeds $5,000.00.)

b. Referee ................................................................ $10.00

c. Manager ................................................................ $20.00

d. Wrestler ............................................................... $10.00

20-24.11. Lost License; Duplicate.

If a license is lost, its owner may obtain a duplicate for $2.00 by written application to the State Athletic Commission.

20-24.12. Refunds for License and Permit Fees.

Fees paid for licenses and permits shall not be refundable.

20-24.13. Additional Rules and Regulations.

1. Conduct of Professional Wrestling Matches. All professional wrestling matches shall be conducted under the rules of the National Wrestling Association, the World Wrestling Federation, or other recognized sanctioning organization approved by the Commission. The referee shall see that the match is conducted in accordance with the applicable rules, and any wrestler who fails to conform to the rules after being warned by the referee shall be disqualified in accordance with such rules, and may be subject to discipline by the Commission as provided by the Act.

2. Promoter's Responsibility. Each promoter of a professional wrestling match shall be responsible to the Commission for its employees and agents and their compliance with the Act and the and regulations of the Commission.

3. Duties of Licenses. It shall be the duty of the referee to conduct the match and to see that the match is conducted in accordance with the rules of the appropriate sanctioning body. It shall be the duty of the promoter to comply with all of the rules and regulations adopted by the commission and to obey the Act. There shall be no abuse of a referee or any Commission official at any time. The Commission shall have jurisdiction to hear complaints concerning a referee or any official, and his decision may be appealed to the entire Commission. The Commission's decision may be appealed to a court of competent jurisdiction in accordance with the Administrative Procedures Act.

4. Age Limitations. No wrestler's license shall be issued to any person under the age of eighteen (18).

5. Physical examination of Wrestlers. Any wrestler applying for a license or annual renewal thereof shall furnish a certificate of a physician duly licensed to practice medicine in any state on a form approved by the Commission. The Commission may order the examination of any wrestler at any time for the purpose of determining whether such wrestler is fit and qualified to engage in wrestling within the State of South Carolina.

6. Safety. Wrestling events to which the public is admitted shall be exhibited only in such buildings or stadiums as are in compliance with all applicable health, fire and safety regulations. The promoter shall insure that provisions are made for reasonable security arrangements and personnel for the orderly conduct of the matches and spectators.

7. There must be six (6) foot buffer zone between the wrestling ring and the spectators.

8. Wrestlers must not have any hostile contact with spectators.

9. Wrestlers must not swing or throw objects outside the ring and buffer zone, or at spectators.

10. Wrestlers must not run through the crowd or cross the buffer zone for any purpose except to go to or from the dressing room.

11. Wrestlers must not initiate any contact with spectators before, during or after their wrestling matches.

12. Wrestlers must not deliberately cut themselves or others, or otherwise draw blood. The Referee or Commissioners present may stop the bout immediately for a violation of these rules. The Commission may proceed against perpetrators' licenses or prosecute them pursuant to 52-7-60 Code of Laws of South Carolina 1976, as amended.

13. The referee or Commissioners present may stop the bout immediately for a violation of these rules. The Commission may proceed against violators' licenses or prosecute them as provided for by law.

20-24.14. Amateur Wrestling.

See Section 20-16.1.

20-24.15. Amateur Wrestling in Connection with Professional Events.

No amateur wrestling events may be held in connection with any professional event or exhibit.

20-24.16. Nonprofit and Charitable Events.

See Section 20-17.10.

SUBCHAPTER 25. WAIVER OF RULES

20-25.1. Waiver of Rules.

When a championship event is held under the jurisdiction of a nationally recognized organization, the Commission may, by unanimous vote of those present at a meeting with a quorum, waive any regulation, which is not required by Chapter 7 of Title 52 of the South Carolina Code.

20-25.2. Denial of License or Permit.

If an applicant for a license or permit has been convicted on a charge of moral turpitude or for unbecoming conduct at any time or place reflecting discredit to boxing, kick-boxing or wrestling, the Commission may decline to issue such license or permit. (See 20-6.17 and 20-5.27).

20-25.3. Athletic Contests with Animals.

The State Athletic Commission shall not license animals other than human beings nor issue permits for events in which they participate. (See South Carolina Code of Laws Section 16-27-10 et seq.)

20-25.4. Repealed by State Register Volume 20, Issue 6, Part 1, eff June 28, 1996.

20-25.5. When No Regulations Exist.

When an application for a permit is received and no regulations exist for the type event for which the permit is regulated the Commission may:

1. Deny the permit

2. If all requirements for a permit have been met may:

a. Designate that regulation for a related combative art be used:

b. Designate that acceptance or regulations of a licensed school be used.

20-25.6. Verbal or Physical Abuse of Commission Representatives or Officials is Forbidden [see R-20-9.1].

Verbal or physical abuse of any Commissioner, the Commission Representative or any person representing the Commission shall be a violation of the act establishing this commission and shall be subject to the penalties authorize in sections 52-7-60, 52-7-65 and 52-7-150 of the South Carolina Code of Laws.

20-25.7. Blood Borne Pathogens Exposure Control Plan.

All promoters must comply with Section 29 CFR 1910.1030 of OSHA Bloodborne Pathogen Standards. The State Athletic Commission may issue minimum guidelines.

SUBCHAPTER 26. OFF THE STREET BOXING (I.E. TOUGHMAN, BADMAN [SIC] )

20-26.1. Off the Street Boxing (e.g. Toughman, Badman, Mad of the Maddest or Bad of the Baddest [sic]).

Participants and Officials must comply with the Rules and Regulations for regular boxing events with the following exceptions and/or additional rules:

1. Each bout is limited to three (3) one minute rounds.

2. The corner men must use clean towels and mouth pieces for each bout.

3. No boxer shall participate in more than four (4) such bouts in the same calendar day nor on successive calendar days without specific approval of the duly authorized Commission Representative. The ringside physician must check and record a boxer's blood pressure prior to each fight.

4. No person who has participated in more than five (5) amateur boxing, kick-boxing, or Off The Street Boxing events or more than five (5) of any combination of boxing, kick-boxing, or off the street tournament shall participate in an Off The Street Boxing Tournament.

5. No person who has participated in professional boxing or kick-boxing including trainers and sparring partners, shall enter an Off The Street Boxing Tournament.

6. Winning a prize in an Off The Street Boxing Event does not, in itself, make the winner a professional within the meaning of these regulations.

7. The Commission realizes that most participants will be late entrants, as in "emergency substitutions" and that promoters cannot provide late entrants' names and identifying data two weeks before the event. Nor, obviously, can participants who do not decide to enter more than one week prior to the event apply for licenses one week in advance of the event as ordinarily required. However, the promoter is to submit any participants' information upon his receipt, and participants are to apply for licenses upon registering for the contest.

8. Weight classes shall be as specified in section 20-1.2

9. Gloves of minimum weight of sixteen ounces, to be provided by the promoter, are required.

10. Kicking is not permitted in Off The Street Boxing.

11. All equipment must be inspected and approved by the Commission representative. All contestants must wear headgear.

12. In lieu of an accident and medical insurance policy, the promoter may provide a surety bond to the Commission in the amount of Five Thousand Dollars (5,000.00). Such bond is to guarantee that the promoter pays for medical treatment for injuries received by contestants and a payment of Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000.00) to the contestant's nearest relative in the event of the contestant's death.

13. No off The Street Boxing Tournament shall be longer than two consecutive twenty-four hour periods.