I.K.O.N. follows the IKO competition rules that the late Sosai Oyama put forward. We hope the particulars below will answer frequent questions that we receive and clarify our standpoint in terms of the Kumite rules.

 

1. Pushing and Hooking

All techniques of pushing (Oshi) and hooking (Kake) are illegal.

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2. Zanshin

A high kick followed by Zanshin does not constitute a half point (Waza-ari) unless the criteria outlined below are met.

 

A Half Point by a High Kick

A high kick (Mawashi geri, Mae Geri, Ushiro Mawashi Geri, Hiza geri, etc) that downs the opponent or results in the opponent’s loss of his or her will to fight for less than three seconds, after which the opponent stands up to resume the fight, scores a half point (Waza-ari). A half point is also awarded when a high kick causes the opponent to be damaged, stumble, or disoriented.

 

A Half Point by a high Kick For the categories where headgear is mandatory

A high kick (Mawashi geri, Mae Geri, Ushiro Mawashi Geri, Hiza geri, etc) that clearly lands, with or without damage, scores a half point (Waza-ari). Also, even if the kick does not give a clear landing on the opponent’s head, if the technique is effective and causes damage to the opponent, a half point is awarded.

 

3. A foot sweep

When the opponent is downed and momentarily becomes defenseless with any technique, including foot sweeps (Ashi-kake) and is followed immediately by a well-focused, but non-contact, downward punch (Gedan Zuki), might score a half point (Waza-ari).

 

4. Warnings and Penalties

Chui Ichi (No effect on a decision) -> Chui Ni (No effect on a decision) -> Genten Ichi* -> Genten Ni (disqualification)

*A half point (Waza-ari) takes precedence over Genten Ichi.

-Actions considered by the judges to be sheer violence, deliberate fouls, or deliberate bad attitude, will result in disqualification (Shikkaku) regardless of the score.