Many people associate white-collar boxing with the 1999 thriller film Fight Club. And while “the first rule of fight club is you do not talk about fight club”, white-collar boxing is the exact opposite. Over the years, this sport has not only been talked about, but it has also caught the eye of many working professionals, surging its popularity with every event. But before we start talking about its events, first, let us understand what it exactly is.

What is White Collar Boxing?

What started in the 90s in New York has now become a global phenomenon. White-collar boxing is basically for white-collar professionals and workers. These participants typically don’t have a boxing background. They only enter the ring after being trained by professionals for weeks. It’s an ideal opportunity for corporate workers to get fit and also practice something interesting on the side.

Basic Rules of White Collar Boxing

As it’s considered safer than other forms of boxing, white-collar boxing has strict rules that must be followed. These are:

• Only participants who are 18 or above can compete
• Before they can box, participants have to undergo and pass a medical
• All the boxers have to train together so that equal opponents are chosen
• Fights are divided into 3 two-minute rounds with a minute break in between
• Referees give the scores of fights
• The referee stops the fight if there are three standing 8 counts in one round
• If the referee feels that either of the boxers might be in danger, he can stop the match

Difference Between White Collar Boxing and Other Forms of Boxing

Unlike amateur or professional boxing, white-collar boxing is less risky, low-impact and safety-oriented. It’s more like a recreational activity, unlike professional boxing where players commit themselves to it, while also earning money and fame for their skills. 

White Collar Boxing: Training and Competitions

Participants who wish to play matches at WC-boxing events have to undergo physical training and mental conditioning. Boxers ideally train for 2 or 3 hours every 6 to 8 weeks before their first official fight. The professionals who train these boxers help enhance their sparring and general boxing skills and strategy so that they are prepared before fight nights.  

Who Can Participate in White Collar Boxing?

A major reason for the popularity of WC-boxing is its inclusivity. Anyone between the ages of 18 and 55, who passes the medical, can be a part of it. And, as the participants don’t need to have a boxing background, a lot of working professionals lean towards it as a medium to improve their physical and mental well-being.

Safety Measures in White Collar Boxing

There are many factors that ensure the safety of white-collar boxers. As long as the rules and safety measures are followed, it’s quite a safe game to play. Participants are evaluated and opponents are paired equally based on their build, ability and skill. They have to wear protective gear like head gears, mouth guards, groin guards and 16oz padded gloves while fighting. 

The meticulous medical checkup done before ensures that the boxers are fit to play. Even during matches, the main focus is on controlled sparring rather than aggressive play. The referees who are highly qualified ensure match fairness. After a match, another thorough medical is done on the players to ensure that they aren’t injured. 

Dress Code For White Collar Boxing Events

An interesting quirk of white-collar boxing is the formal dress code for the audience, where they have to look dapper. Men have to wear a shirt, trousers, and tie paired with elegant shoes. And, women have to wear their best evening or cocktail dress or opt for a blouse and a tailored skirt or trousers below. Causal clothes like jeans or polo are frowned upon and might deny you entry!

When it comes to the boxers, the events provide them with gloves, vests and headgear for the night. However, they have to get their own groin guards (compulsory for men, optional for women), mouth guards, boxing shorts and boxing boots.

White Collar Boxing and Charity

White-collar boxing and charity are tightly knit. The WC-boxing events provide a platform for non-professional boxers and a night full of entertainment for the audience. However, that’s not all. The main aim of WC-boxing is to raise funds for different charities. This also encourages team spirit amongst the participants, while they can also build a network with corporate professionals in their fields. Today, white-collar boxing has raised millions of pounds for charity and also spread all over the globe.