The people who set the rules for Boxing are the Governing Bodies. As there is more than one, rules differ. The rules on beards and facial hair are therefore different. You could say it’s a hairy subject.
In professional boxing, beards are generally allowed so long as neither camp objects. If they do, the fighter may be required to trim or shave the beard.
For example, the Nevada Athletic Commission which regulates all contests within the state of Nevada, indicates that they will have the final word and a boxer is forced to comply:
“The Commission’s representative shall determine whether head or facial hair…present any hazard to the safety of the unarmed combatant or his or her opponent or will interfere with the supervision and conduct of the contest or exhibition.”
Nevada Athletic Commission – Rules on Unarmed Combat
In Olympic Boxing, the rules are clearly defined; beards and moustaches are not allowed. A boxer must be clean-shaved before each bout. Similarly, body piercings are not allowed.
Does A Beard Soften Blows?
It’s unlikely, but some camps have claimed it could before a fight. There are other reasons it may give a fighter a small advantage such as hiding the chin, causing a ‘slippery’ hitting surface, or rubbing the opponent’s face during a clinch.
It may also be hard to control cuts and bleeding if the area is covered with hair.
Thanks to Xuan Nguyen for the image.
Boxing Unboxed 