YOKKAO
Official Ruleset

Technical Sparring Rules

Controlled technical sparring for all ages. No winners, no losers — just learning, progression, and valuable experience under the YOKKAO OPEN banner.

Technical Sparring is open to everyone — no amateur or pro status required. You enter the Technical Sparring rankings only once you register for a Technical Sparring event, which sets your Control Rank and weight category.

Age Groups

U8 – U12

5–11 years (U8: 5–7, U10: 8–9, U12: 10–11)
Boxing Gloves
10 oz boxing gloves (mandatory)
Required Protective Equipment
  • Head guard
  • Body protector
  • Shin guards
  • Groin protector
Rules
  • Controlled technical sparring
  • No winners or losers
  • No head contact allowed
  • No teeps to the face
  • No elbows of any kind
  • No heavy knees — knees are placed, not driven
  • No knock outs
  • Head guard mandatory
  • Body protector mandatory (depending by country)
  • Shin guards mandatory
  • 3 × 1-minute rounds
  • 1-minute rest between rounds

U14

12–13 years
Boxing Gloves
16 oz boxing gloves (mandatory)
Required Protective Equipment
  • Head guard
  • Body protector
  • Shin guards
  • Groin protector
Rules
  • Controlled technical sparring
  • No winners or losers
  • No teeps to the face
  • No elbows of any kind
  • No heavy knees — knees are placed, not driven
  • No knock outs
  • Head guard mandatory
  • Body protector mandatory (depending by country)
  • Shin guards mandatory
  • 3 × 1.5-minute rounds
  • 1-minute rest between rounds

U16 – U18

14–17 years (U16: 14–15, U18: 16–17)
Boxing Gloves
16 oz boxing gloves (mandatory)
Required Protective Equipment
  • Head guard
  • Body protector
  • Shin guards
  • Groin protector
Rules
  • Controlled technical sparring
  • No winners or losers
  • No teeps to the face
  • No elbows of any kind
  • No heavy knees — knees are placed, not driven
  • No knock outs
  • Head guard mandatory
  • Body protector mandatory (depending by country)
  • Shin guards mandatory
  • 3 × 2-minute rounds
  • 1-minute rest between rounds

Adults

18–39 years
Boxing Gloves
16 oz boxing gloves (mandatory)
Required Protective Equipment
  • Head guard
  • Body protector (not worn at CR5 Advanced)
  • Shin guards
  • Groin protector
Rules
  • Controlled technical sparring
  • No winners or losers
  • No teeps to the face
  • No elbows of any kind
  • No heavy knees — knees are placed, not driven
  • No knock outs
  • Head guard mandatory
  • Body protector mandatory (depending by country), except CR5 Advanced
  • CR5 Advanced Adults: no body protector — for pro-level athletes to test their skills further, always under control
  • Shin guards mandatory
  • 3 × 2-minute rounds
  • 1-minute rest between rounds

Masters

40+ years
Boxing Gloves
16 oz boxing gloves (mandatory)
Required Protective Equipment
  • Head guard
  • Body protector
  • Shin guards
  • Groin protector
Rules
  • Controlled technical sparring
  • No winners or losers
  • No teeps to the face
  • No elbows of any kind
  • No heavy knees — knees are placed, not driven
  • No knock outs
  • Head guard mandatory
  • Body protector mandatory (depending by country)
  • Shin guards mandatory
  • 3 × 2-minute rounds
  • 1-minute rest between rounds
Technical Sparring FAQ
Is Technical Sparring a real fight? Are there winners and losers?
No. Technical Sparring is a structured, controlled Muay Thai experience focused on skill, technique, composure under pressure, and continuous development. There are no winners, no losers, no official records, and knockouts are strictly prohibited. The referee has full authority to pause or stop any bout if intensity exceeds the division's standards. Full rules are on the Technical Sparring rules page.
Does Technical Sparring take place in a ring or on mats?
Technical Sparring takes place on official competition mats rather than in an elevated ring. The mats give an open, level competition area with full referee supervision, which is the safest setting for controlled sessions across all age groups.
How many bouts do I get with my registration?
Every registered athlete is scheduled for two technical sparring bouts (subject to a suitable matchup). This gives you maximum experience, an opportunity to apply coach feedback immediately, and professional session time without fight-record pressure.
What happens if no suitable opponent is found for one of my bouts?
Our matchmakers pair every athlete with the closest available opponent by age, weight and Control Rank. If the pool on the day doesn't allow a bout, our staff will work with you and your coach on the best available option — and you will still receive your Written Feedback Card.
Who can participate, and what are the age divisions?

Technical Sparring is open to practitioners of all levels, from beginners to experienced athletes:

  • Juniors: U8 (5–7), U10 (8–9), U12 (10–11), U14 (12–13), U16 (14–15), U18 (16–17)
  • Adults: 18–39 years
  • Masters: 40+ years (with dedicated pairings for 50+)

Full age-group and equipment details are on the Technical Sparring rules page.

Do I need fight experience or an amateur/pro record to join?
No. Technical Sparring is open to everyone — no amateur or professional status is required, and no fight record is needed. Your Control Rank at registration is what places you with athletes of a similar level.
Is head contact allowed?
It depends on the age group. For U8–U12 no head contact is allowed. From U14 upwards — including Adults and Masters — controlled contact to the head is permitted, always within the intensity standards enforced by the referee. See the full equipment and contact rules on the Technical Sparring rules page.
When are weigh-ins for Technical Sparring?
Technical Sparring weigh-ins take place the morning of the event (same day), typically between 8:30 AM and 10:00 AM, followed by the rules meeting at 10:15 AM and bouts beginning at 11:00 AM.
What happens if I miss weight on the day?
Technical Sparring has no forfeit: the matchmakers adjust your pairing within the safety parameters of the division, so you still spar against an athlete of comparable size.
What equipment is provided by YOKKAO, and what do I need to bring?
  • Gear provided by YOKKAO: YOKKAO will provide all protective gear (boxing gloves, head guard, shin guards, and body protector where required). Adults at CR5 Advanced spar without a body protector, so pro-level athletes can test their skills further under control. Shorts are NOT provided for Technical Sparring — athletes must wear their own Muay Thai shorts.
  • Can I use my own gear? You may only use your own gear if it is official YOKKAO equipment, in good condition, and inspected and approved by event staff at check-in. Non-YOKKAO brands are strictly not permitted.
  • Mandatory personal items: all participants must bring their own mouthguard and groin guard.

The full equipment list by age group is on the Technical Sparring rules page.

What is the Control Rank (CR) and does it affect my fight record?
Control Rank (CR 1 to 5) measures your technical execution, respect, and ability to control power during a session. It does not affect or appear on any official amateur or professional fight record. It exists solely to track your progress and ensure balanced matchmaking. Read how CR levels, assessments and progression work on the Control Rank System page.
What is the Written Feedback Card?
Following your bouts, certified YOKKAO officials evaluate your composure, defense, combinations, and awareness inside the competition area, providing a written feedback card so you and your coach know exactly what to work on next.
Will Technical Sparring affect my amateur record or ranking points?
No. The two systems are completely separate — Technical Sparring never alters your official amateur fight record, experience class, or amateur ranking points. Amateur points work differently (KO/TKO +120, Decision +100, Draw +40, Loss +10, plus bonuses and opponent multipliers) — see the full breakdown on the points system page and the live standings on the rankings page.
Do my bouts appear in the YOKKAO Technical rankings?
You enter the Technical Sparring rankings once you register for a Technical Sparring event, which sets your Control Rank and weight category. Because there are no winners or losers, no points are awarded — the rankings show your participation and progression across sessions. See the current standings on the rankings page.
My gym isn't on the site yet — can I still register?
Yes. During registration (or on your profile page), select "My gym is not listed" and type your gym's name — your registration and spot are secured. Your coach or gym owner adds the gym on the gyms page by clicking "Add your gym". Once the gym is approved, our staff will link your profile to your gym — no need to re-register, and you keep your Early Bird price and qualify under the gym's free coach pass allocation (1–3 athletes = 2 free passes; 4–6 = 3; 7–10 = 4; 11–15 = 5; extra coach passes are bought by the gym at $25).
Are registrations or tickets refundable?
No. All registrations, gear bundles, spectator tickets, VIP tables and coach passes are final sales — refunds are not available. Full details are on the refund policy page.

A Note for Parents

Your child's safety comes first — always. Here is exactly how Technical Sparring protects the youngest athletes:

The youngest groups (U8–U12, ages 5–11) spar three rounds of one minute each, with no head contact at all and lighter 10oz gloves.
Every child is matched by age group, weight, experience and Control Rank — never against a much bigger or far more experienced partner.
YOKKAO provides the full protective kit: boxing gloves, head guard, shin guards and body protector. A mouthguard and groin protector are mandatory and are checked at gear inspection.
A licensed referee supervises every session and can slow it down or stop it at any moment — officials intervene the instant control or safety standards slip.
There are no winners, losers or knockouts. Teeps to the face, elbows and heavy knees are banned in every age group.
Parents are welcome to watch from the spectator area ($25; children 3 and under free) — or simply drop their child off with their coach.

Questions before registering your child? Write to our team — we are happy to reassure you.

Control Rank (CR)

Every athlete is matched by Control Rank — a measure of control, composure and adaptability, never of wins or losses. Your initial rank is assigned by your gym owner or head coach.

CR1
Foundation
Less than 6 months
The athlete is building the foundations of controlled sparring: reading distance, timing and reactions in a safe environment. The focus is on listening, learning and building confidence rather than initiating exchanges.
CR2
Progression
6–12 months
The athlete is progressing beyond the basics, beginning to express their own style, experimenting with combinations, counters and movement while maintaining control.
CR3
Development
1–2 years
Confidence develops and the athlete naturally pushes the pace. This is the stage where intensity can increase, requiring awareness and occasional referee intervention to reinforce control over instinct.
CR4
Awareness
2–3 years
The athlete consistently demonstrates composure, adapts to different partners and controls intensity regardless of the situation. They lead by example.
CR5
Advanced
3+ years
Complete control, adaptability and leadership. The athlete can safely spar with participants of any level and embodies the values of YOKKAO Technical Sparring. Adults (18–39) at CR5 spar without a body protector, to test their skills further under control.
Experience ranges are indicative only. Control Rank is determined primarily by the athlete’s technical ability, composure, awareness and level of control during sparring. If you are unsure which rank to select, please consult your coach before registering.
Control Rank (CR) FAQ
What is the Control Rank?
The Control Rank (CR) recognises an athlete's ability to spar and train with control, awareness and adaptability. It is not based on wins or losses. Instead, it reflects behaviour, composure and progression within the Technical Sparring.
What does the Control Rank measure?
The Control Rank evaluates an athlete's ability to control intensity, adapt to different partners, demonstrate respect, maintain composure, display good sportsmanship, and practice technical Muay Thai safely.
Is Control Rank based on fighting ability?
No. A professional fighter is not automatically CR5. Likewise, a recreational athlete may become CR5 through years of exceptional control, leadership and contribution to the community.
Who assigns my Control Rank?
Your initial Control Rank is assigned by your registered gym owner or head coach. Future progression is based on ongoing observation and recommendations from coaches and referees.
Can I choose my Control Rank?
No. Control Rank is assigned to ensure safe and appropriate matchmaking.
Can my Control Rank change?
Yes. As your control, adaptability and experience improve, your gym owner may recommend progression.
Do I have to progress?
No. Many athletes remain at the same Control Rank throughout their journey. Progression is optional. The objective is enjoyment, safety and continuous learning.
Can I stay at CR1 forever?
Yes. The Control Rank is not a ladder that everyone must climb. It simply identifies the level at which you can safely and confidently participate.
Does CR5 mean I am the best fighter?
No. CR5 recognises complete control, adaptability, leadership and the ability to safely work with athletes of every level. It is a recognition of responsibility rather than fighting ability.
Can a professional fighter be CR2?
Yes. If a professional fighter has never participated in the Technical Sparring or has not demonstrated the philosophy of the Control Rank System, their gym may initially assign an appropriate Control Rank.
Can coaches be CR5?
Yes. Coaches who consistently demonstrate leadership, control and sportsmanship are ideal examples of CR5.
Do CR5 Adults wear a body protector?
No. Adults (18–39) at CR5 Advanced spar without a body protector. This is designed for pro-level athletes to test their skills further, always under control. Head guard, shin guards, 16 oz gloves and groin protector remain mandatory, and teeps to the face, elbows, heavy knees and knock outs remain banned. All other age groups and ranks keep the body protector.
Can I lose my Control Rank?
Yes. If an athlete consistently demonstrates behaviour that is inconsistent with the philosophy of the Technical Sparring, their gym owner or event officials may review and adjust their Control Rank.
Philosophy
The higher the Control Rank, the greater the responsibility. A CR5 is not expected to spar harder. A CR5 is expected to protect training partners, adapt to every situation and lead by example.
Technical Sparring is a structured, non-competitive experience. See also the Amateur Rules and Rankings.