The DIfference Between Scoring Kickboxing (WAKO) and Muay Thai (USA Muay Thai)

The POW! Gym Community is excited that our team is off to Florida this week to compete in the WAKO.  We are so excited about the opportunity.  To follow updates on the team and live links to watch the event follow us at @powgymcombatclub on Instagram.

We are really lucky that Coach Austin has led so many of our students to fight both in kickboxing and muay thai events.  If you would like clarification on the difference between the rule set - take a read.

WAKO (World Association of Kickboxing Organizations) has specific rules for various styles of kickboxing. Here’s an overview of the main rules generally applied in WAKO competitions:

General Rules

1. Weight Classes: Competitors must weigh in according to their designated weight class, which is strictly enforced.
2. Rounds: Fights typically consist of 3 rounds, each lasting 2-3 minutes, depending on the level of competition (amateur vs. professional).
3. Rest Period: There is usually a 1-minute break between rounds.

Striking Techniques

1. Allowed Techniques: Competitors can use punches and kicks. The specific style may determine additional allowed strikes, such as knees in some formats.
2. Banned Techniques: Elbow strikes, headbutts, and strikes to the back of the head or neck are generally prohibited. Groin strikes and throws are also not allowed.

Scoring

1. Judging Criteria: Judges score based on the effectiveness of strikes, control of the fight, and overall technique. The emphasis is on clean, legal hits.
2. Scoring System: Points are awarded for successful strikes, with a focus on the quality and effectiveness of techniques rather than quantity.

Attire

1. Uniform: Fighters typically wear kickboxing shorts, gloves, and appropriate protective gear. This may include shin guards and headgear for amateur competitions.
2. Footwear: In most WAKO formats, competitors fight barefoot.

Fouls

1. Fouls: Actions such as holding, hitting after the break, or any illegal strikes may result in warnings, point deductions, or disqualification.
2. Penalties: Referees have the authority to stop the fight for fouls and may issue warnings before applying penalties.

Knockouts and Stoppages

1. Knockouts: A knockout can end a fight if a fighter is unable to continue after a legal strike.
2. Referee Stoppages: A referee can stop a fight if one competitor is deemed unable to defend themselves or if they receive too many unanswered strikes.

USA Muay Thai follows specific rules and regulations to ensure safety and fair competition. Here’s an overview of the main rules generally applied in USA Muay Thai competitions:

General Rules

1. Weight Classes: Fighters must compete within their designated weight classes, with weigh-ins typically occurring the day before the event.
2. Rounds: Amateur bouts usually consist of 3 rounds of 2 minutes each, while professional bouts can have 5 rounds of 3 minutes each.
3. Rest Period: There is usually a 1-minute break between rounds.

Allowed Techniques

1. Strikes: Fighters can use punches, kicks, elbows, and knees. This includes strikes from both the standing position and during the clinch.
2. Clinch: Clinching is an integral part of Muay Thai, allowing fighters to control their opponent and deliver knee strikes.

Attire

1. Uniform: Fighters wear Muay Thai shorts and hand wraps, and they must use approved gloves.
2. Protective Gear: Amateur fighters are often required to wear headgear, shin guards, and mouthguards.

Scoring

1. Judging Criteria: Judges score based on the effectiveness of strikes, ring control, and overall technique. Clean, powerful strikes score higher than volume.
2. Scoring System: Points are awarded for landed strikes, with more emphasis on effective techniques such as elbows and knees.

Fouls

1. Fouls: Common fouls include strikes to the back of the head, groin shots, and excessive holding.
2. Penalties: Referees can issue warnings, point deductions, or disqualifications for fouls, depending on the severity.

Knockouts and Stoppages

1. Knockouts: A fight can end via knockout if a fighter cannot continue after being struck.
2. Referee Stoppages: The referee has the authority to stop the fight if a fighter is deemed unable to defend themselves or is taking excessive damage.

Medical Regulations

1. Medical Clearance: Fighters often need medical clearance to compete, especially in professional bouts.
2. Pre-fight Medicals: There may be pre-fight medical examinations to ensure fighters are fit to compete.