Shootboxing is a little-known and exciting Japanese martial art and combat sport that many people are unaware of. If you want to learn more about it, including the regulations, athletes, and history, this is the area for you.
What is Shootboxing?
Shoot boxing is a combat sport and a stand-up fighting company that was founded in Tokyo, Japan by Caesar Takeshi in 1985. It is a mixture of shoot wrestling and kickboxing, which allows for kicks, punches, knees, elbows, throws and standing submissions.
The first Shootboxing event was held in 1985 in Tokyo, Japan. The brainchild of Caesar Takeshi, Shoot boxing combines elements of shoot wrestling and kickboxing to create a unique stand-up fighting discipline.
There are currently several different organizations that host regular Shoot boxing events all over the world. These include the International Shootfighting Association (ISSA), King of Kings, Real Fight Championship (RFC), and the Professional Shootwrestling Organization (PSO).
The athletes who compete in Shootboxing are among some of the best martial artists in the world. They have extensive training in disciplines like Muay Thai, karate, boxing, judo, jiu-jitsu, sambo and more. In addition to their impressive physical abilities and athleticism, these fighters must also be highly skilled in both striking and grappling techniques.
History of Shootboxing
Shootboxing was created by Caesar Takeshi in 1985. The first Shootboxing event happened on September 1, 1985. Some mixed martial artists like Hayato Sakurai started their careers in Shootboxing. Shootboxing has also had fighters who became famous in other promotions such as Jens Pulver. Many K-1 World MAX stars have either debuted or fought for Shootboxing before, including Andy Souwer, Albert Kraus, and Buakaw Por Pramuk.
Rules
Matches
There are two types of professional shoot boxing matches: the Expert class and the Freshman class. The Expert class match lasts for five rounds, each round lasting three minutes. If there is a tie, then there are one or two extra rounds that last for three minutes each. There is a one-minute break between each round.
In a Freshman class match, each competitor has three rounds of three minutes each. If the competitors are still tied after these rounds, then they have one or two more rounds of three minutes each. Between each round, there is a one-minute break.
Weight classes
Mens
| Super heavyweight | Unlimited |
| Heavyweight | 90 kg (198.4 lb) |
| Light heavyweight | 80 kg (176.4 lb) |
| Super middleweight | 75 kg (165.3 lb) |
| Middleweight | 72.5 kg (159.8 lb) |
| Super welterweight | 70 kg (154.3 lb) |
| Welterweight | 67.5 kg (148.8 lb) |
| Super lightweight | 65 kg (143.3 lb) |
| Lightweight | 62.5 kg (137.8 lb) |
| Super featherweight | 60 kg (132.3 lb) |
| Featherweight | 57.5 kg (126.8 lb) |
| Super bantamweight | 55 kg (121.3 lb) |
| Bantamweight | 52.5 kg (115.7 lb) |
| Super flyweight | 50 kg (110.2 lb) |
| Flyweight | 47.5 kg (104.7 lb) |
Womens
| Lightweight | 65 kg (143.3 lb) |
| Featherweight | 60 kg (132.3 lb) |
| Bantamweight | 55 kg (121.3 lb) |
| Flyweight | 52 kg (114.6 lb) |
| Strawweight | 49 kg (108.0 lb) |
| Atomweight | 46 kg (101.4 lb) |
Judging
There are different ways to knock someone out in a shoot boxing match.
- The fighter does not stand up within ten seconds.
- After standing up, the fighter does not assume a fighting stance within eight seconds.
- The fighter is knocked out of the ring and does not return before twenty seconds have passed.
- If it appears that the fighter cannot defend themselves or has surrendered.
In shoot boxing, a technical knockout can also happen. If neither a knockout nor a technical knockout happens, the winner is determined by a decision. The fighters are graded on how well they attacked and defended, how successful they were in getting and escaping submissions, and how close they came to winning. Most of the time, decisions produce a winner, but sometimes there is a draw.
Training process
Shoot boxing is a style of fighting that uses both Boxing and Kickboxing/Thai-boxing techniques. People who train in this style typically focus on mastering boxing basics.
The Benefits of Shootboxing
Shootboxing is an excellent way to become a well-rounded fighter. Since it uses both boxing and kickboxing techniques, you will learn how to defend yourself in a variety of situations. This style of fighting is also known for its explosive power and speed, so you will be able to develop your striking skills.
In addition, shoot boxing is a great workout. It will help you build muscle, improve your cardiovascular health, and increase your coordination. And unlike many other combat sports, there is no grappling involved in this discipline, so you won’t have to worry about getting injured or tired.
If you are interested in pursuing a career as a shootboxer, it is important to find a good training program and a supportive community. Many great gyms and clubs offer classes and training sessions for people at all skill levels. So whether you are just starting or looking to take your skills to the next level, shoot boxing can help you achieve your goals.
Shootboxing Fundamentals
Techniques Taught in shootboxing fundamentals:
- Landing Hard Kicks
- Standup
- Elbow strikes
- Standing Chokes
- Karate kicks
- takedowns
- knee and elbow strikes
Equipment Needed
- Full padded gloves that allow for open hand palms
- Shorts
- Groin cup
- Ring Platform
- Mouthgaurd
- Boxing shoes
FAQ
What is shootboxing?
Shootboxing is a style of fighting that uses both boxing and kickboxing techniques. It was created by Caesar Takeshi in 1985.
How is shootboxing different from other combat sports?
In shootboxing, fighters can use a range of strikes such as kicks, punches, knees, and elbows to score points. There is also no grappling allowed in this type of match.
How do I get started with shootboxing?
If you are interested in pursuing a career as a shootboxer, the first step is to find a good training program and supportive community. Many great gyms and clubs offer classes and training sessions for people of all skill levels. So whether you are just starting or looking to take your skills to the next level, shootboxing can help you achieve your goals. You may also want to look for experienced trainers and other fighters who can provide tips, advice, and guidance along the way.
Is Shootboxing Used By MMA Fighters?
There is some overlap between shootboxing and (mixed martial arts)MMA, as many fighters use both styles in their training. However, some MMA fighters may choose not to compete in shootboxing matches because these fights do not allow grappling or ground fighting.
Additionally, the rules and scoring systems used in shootboxing competitions are often quite different from those used in MMA matches. While some MMA fighters may have experience competing in shootboxing contests, this is typically not a requirement for success at the professional level. Ultimately, whether or not you decide to pursue a career as a shootboxer will depend on your personal goals and preferences as a fighter.
Are there any popular gyms that teach shootboxing?
The Super Tiger Gym is well-known gym.
Final Thoughts
Shootboxing is a powerful and exciting combat sport that combines the best techniques from boxing and kickboxing. Whether you are just starting out or looking to take your skills to the next level, this discipline can help you become a well-rounded fighter. To get started with shootboxing, it is important to find a good training program and supportive community. With the right training and support, you can achieve your goals and become a successful shootboxer.
