Section 3: Playing Area
Ring Specifications
IBF championship bouts must be conducted in a regulation boxing ring meeting the following specifications:
- Ring Size: The ring must measure between 16 feet (4.88 m) and 20 feet (6.10 m) on each side, measured inside the ropes. The IBF prefers a minimum of 18 feet for championship contests when venue conditions permit.
- Ring Floor: The floor must be padded with approved material (typically closed-cell foam) of at least 1 inch thickness, covered by a canvas surface. The canvas must be taut, clean, and non-slippery. A layer of rubber or similar shock-absorbing material is recommended beneath the padding.
- Ring Posts: Four corner posts must be securely padded with protective cushioning at least 3 inches thick. Posts must be at least 58 inches above the ring floor.
- Ropes: The ring is enclosed by four ropes, each a minimum of 1 inch in diameter, covered with a soft, smooth material. Ropes are positioned at approximate heights of 18, 30, 42, and 54 inches from the ring floor, evenly spaced. Ropes must be connected by spacer ties at regular intervals to prevent excessive spreading.
- Apron: The ring platform must extend at least 2 feet beyond the ropes on all sides, providing an apron for ring officials, seconds, and medical personnel.
- Steps: Three sets of steps must be provided — one for each boxer (at diagonally opposite corners) and one for ring officials and medical personnel at a neutral corner.
Corner Designations
The ring has four corners: two neutral corners (typically white or unpadded) and two assigned corners — the red corner and the blue corner. The champion or higher-ranked boxer is traditionally assigned the red corner, while the challenger or lower-ranked boxer is assigned the blue corner. The two neutral corners are used to direct boxers during knockdown counts and are not assigned to either fighter.
Ring Lighting
Lighting must be sufficient for clear visibility by judges, the referee, and broadcast cameras. Overhead lighting must not create blinding glare for the boxers. The IBF reserves the right to require adjustments to lighting conditions before a championship bout may proceed.
Corner Equipment
Each corner must be equipped with a stool, a water bucket, an endswell (cold metal compress), approved cut treatment materials, and towels. Corner teams are responsible for ensuring all materials comply with commission regulations. No foreign substances or unauthorized medications may be applied to a boxer during the bout.