Below is a list of boxing phrases and terminology commonly used in the sport.
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Main Event -
The most important fight on a card.
Majority Decision (MD) -
When two of the three judges score one boxer as the winner, while the third judge scores neither boxer a winner (a draw). Example: 116-114, 116-114, 114-114.
Majority Draw -
Occurs when two judges vote for a draw, while the third judge chooses a winner. The fight is recorded as a draw on both boxers' records. Example: 114-114, 114-114, 116-114.
Manager -
A person who gets paid to act as the boxer's agent or representative. It's unlawful for a manager to have a direct or indirect financial interest in the promotion of a boxer or to get paid from a promoter except if it's in the manager's contract with the boxer. These rules only apply to fights of 10 rounds or more. A boxer can act as his or her own manager.
Mandatory Eight Count -
An eight (8) second count that a fallen boxer must take when they get back on their feet. It allows the referee time to decide whether the boxer can continue the fight.
Marquess of Queensberry Rules -
Rules sponsored by British John Sholto Douglas, 9th Marquess of Queensberry in 1867 became the foundation of modern boxing regulations.
Matchmaker -
A person who proposes, selects, and arranges fights between boxers.
Mauler -
An inside fighter who tries to prevail by smothering his opponents.
Memorial Ten Count -
The tolling of the bell 10 times at the beginning of a fight in honor of a recently deceased boxer.
Mouse -
A swelling on the face, forehead, or head.
Mouthpiece -
A piece of plastic used to protect a fighter's teeth and prevent him from biting his tongue.
Muhammad Ali Boxing Reform Act (Ali Act) -
A federal law that was introduced in 1999 and enacted on 26 May 2000 by the 106th Congress to: 1.) protect the rights and welfare of boxers 2.) aid state boxing commissions with the oversight of boxing and 3.) increase sportsmanship and integrity within the boxing industry. The Act amends the 1996 Professional Boxing Safety Act by expanding upon legislature against exploitation, conflict of interest, enforcement, and as well as additional amendments. The Act was enacted in response to widespread abuse of boxers by means of exploitation, rigged rankings, and rigged matches.