How do you win a sambo bout?
B · Beginner · Scoring and winning · 4 of 4A bout ends at once on a perfect throw, a submission, an eight-point lead, the opponent's withdrawal or disqualification, and in Combat Sambo a knockout. Otherwise the athlete with more points wins. Ties go to more technical points, then more 4- and 2-point actions, then the last to score. With no technical points, fewer warnings or the activity mark decide.
How it works
- Perfect throw: wins.
- Submission: wins.
- Eight-point lead: wins.
- On time: most points.
- Tie 1: technical points.
- Tie 2: bigger scores.
- Tie 3: last to score.
- No scores: warnings, then activity.
The glossary has the total victory, the eight-point lead, the winning on points, the activity, the perfect throw and the submission signal.
Tricky cases
No one scores by half time. What happens?
The referees name the more active athlete.
Points tie, same technical points. Next?
More 4- and 2-point actions.
Do warning points count as technical points?
No.
Can a withdrawal give total victory?
Yes, to the opponent.
Why the rule exists
The eight-point rule stops a one-sided bout running to the end.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Eight points | Stop | L SS 28.1c |
| Tie | Technical points | L SS 29 |
| Activity | Half time | L SS 14.11 |
From the rule book
FIAS, International SAMBO Rules: Sport SAMBO, articles 14.11, 28 and 29. Checked 15 October 2026. Official documents: FIAS International SAMBO Rules (Sport and Combat).