How is UFC Scored?
In the UFC, the scoring system is essential in determining the winner of a fight when there is no knockout, submission, or disqualification. The UFC uses a 10-point must system, which is standard in most mixed martial arts (MMA) events.
10-Point Must System
Under the 10-point must system, judges assign a score of 10 points to the fighter they deem the winner of the round, and the loser is given 9 points or less. The goal is to award 10 points to the fighter who is the more dominant or effective competitor in the round. A 10-9 score is most common, with the winner of the round typically scoring 10 and the loser scoring 9. In rare instances, a fighter could score less than 9 points (e.g., 10-8 or 10-7) if they were decisively dominated.
Judges score fights based on the following criteria:
- Effective Striking: The ability to land clean, significant strikes that can damage the opponent.
- Effective Grappling: Successful takedowns, submissions, and control on the ground.
- Control of the Octagon: Movement and positioning that limits the opponent’s actions.
- Fight Management: Overall strategy, aggression, and how the fighter manages their energy and distance.
Can You Draw in a UFC Fight?
Yes, a draw is possible in the UFC, though it’s relatively rare. There are two types of draws:
- Majority Draw: This occurs when two judges score the fight as a draw, while the third judge picks a winner.
- Split Draw: This happens when all three judges score the fight equally, typically 28-28 or similar.
A draw may also occur if a fight is deemed a no contest due to accidental fouls, like an illegal blow, or if the fight is stopped due to unforeseen circumstances, such as injuries caused by legal actions.
In some rare cases, the result might be affected by a fighter being disqualified, but this is not classified as a draw.
Rounds in Normal and Championship Fights
Normal Fights
Most UFC fights consist of three rounds, each lasting five minutes. There is a one-minute break between rounds for fighters to recover. Judges score each round independently, and the fighter who wins the majority of the three rounds is declared the winner.
Championship Fights
Championship fights, on the other hand, consist of five rounds, each lasting five minutes. The increased round count gives both fighters more time to demonstrate their skills and for judges to evaluate performance over a longer period.
Championship bouts typically include an additional level of intensity and strategy, as fighters must maintain their performance for an extended time.
In both regular and championship fights, if the fight goes the distance (no finish by KO/TKO or submission), the winner is determined by the judges’ scorecards.
The UFC’s scoring system ensures that the most skilled fighter wins, considering both the striking and grappling aspects of MMA.
READ MORE: UFC Weight Classes Explained
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