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Rules

All youth bouts are conducted strictly in accordance with IMMAF Youth MMA rules. Age-appropriate restrictions are applied to ensure the safety, well-being, and long-term development of young athletes. 

IMMAF Youth MMA Rules  

  • Strict age and weight matching

  • Shorter rounds and enhanced medical oversight

  • No elbow strikes

  • No knee strikes

  • No head strikes 

  • No dangerous throws, slams, or spiking

  • No heel hooks, neck cranks, or spinal submissions

  • Limited and controlled submission grappling only

  • Referees empowered to stop bouts immediately for safety

Age groups

  • Youth C: 12–13 years (U14)

  • Youth B: 14–15 years (U16)

  • Youth A: 16–17 years (U18)

 

Each age band has additional safeguards and technique restrictions appropriate to physical development, including limits on strikes, leg locks, and specific submissions.

Full rules 

This page provides an overview only. Full, definitive rules — including permitted and prohibited techniques by age group — are published by IMMAF and must be followed at all times.

View the full IMMAF Youth Rules: https://immaf.org

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