How long must a Muay Thai fighter rest after a knockout?
A · Advanced · Fouls and safety · 4 of 5After a knockout or stoppage from head strikes, an athlete may not fight or spar for at least 30 days. Two within 90 days mean 90 days out, and three within 12 months a year out. A doctor examines any athlete knocked out by head strikes straight away, and an official goes with them to their lodging.
How it works
- One KOH or RSCH: at least 30 days.
- Two in 90 days: 90 days from the second.
- Three in 12 months: 12 months from the third.
- Bans cover: competition and sparring.
- Recording: in the athlete's medical record and IFMA's system.
- Doctor: examines the athlete at once and advises aftercare.
- Escort: an official goes with the athlete to their lodging.
- Return: a medical certificate after the rest period.
The glossary has the head injury suspension, the knockout (Muay Thai), the referee stops contest, the mandatory eight count, the compulsory count limit and the referee (Muay Thai).
Tricky cases
Does a body-shot knockout bring the same rest?
No. The rule covers knockouts and stoppages from head strikes.
Can an athlete spar during the 30 days?
No.
Who is told about the knockout?
The athlete's national federation.
Can an athlete with many hard losses be stopped from fighting?
Yes, even without a knockout, as a protective measure.
Why the rule exists
A second head injury soon after the first is far more dangerous. Fixed rest periods take the decision away from athletes keen to fight again.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| One head knockout | 30 days | 9.1 |
| Two in 90 days | 90 days | 9.1 |
| Three in 12 months | 12 months | 9.1 |
From the rule book
IFMA, Rules & Regulations for International Competition, version 3.057, rules 9 and 33.1.5. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: the IFMA Rules & Regulations, version 3.057.