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(from encyclopedia) The rules governing bareknuckle boxing, which were adopted in 1838 and revised in 1853. They superseded those drawn up by Jack Broughton, known as the father of English boxing, in 1743. 1) The ‘square of a yard’ in Broughton’s Rule 1 was replaced by the old ‘scratch’ line. 2) After the 30 seconds between rounds, and the umpire’s call of ‘Time’, each man was required to walk to the scratch unaided and was allowed eight seconds to do so. This prevented the second from carrying boxers to the scratch who were, in reality, unfit to continue. 3) There was more attention paid to the boxers’ dress, in particular limiting spikes on boots. 4) A man willfully going down without a blow was deemed to have lost the battle. 5) Fouls, such as butting, gouging, biting, scratching, kicking, the use of stones, etc. in the hand, squeezing on the ropes, were set out fully. 6) Provisions were made regarding wagers in the event of postponements, cancellations, interference by the law or darkness, boxers quitting the ring and other unforeseen circumstances. |