Understanding the 10-Point Must System

The 10-Point Must System is the standard method of scoring in boxing and mixed martial arts (MMA). In this system, the winner of each round is awarded 10 points, and the opponent receives 9 points or fewer, depending on their performance.

Scoring Guidelines:

• 10-10: Even round; both fighters performed equally.
• 10-9: Close round; slight edge to the winner.
• 10-8: Dominant round; one fighter clearly outperformed the other.
• 10-7: Overwhelming dominance; rare and significant beatdown.

At the end of all rounds, the scores are tallied to determine the winner. The fighter with the higher total score wins the match.