One of the more questionable rules in mixed martial arts (MMA) has finally been approved for banishment.
Ariel Helwani confirmed today (Tues., July 23, 2024) that the illegal 12-to-6 elbow strike will no longer be illegal as it’s been approved to change by the Association of Boxing Commissions (ABC). The strike will officially no longer be illegal starting on November 1, 2024.
“The delay is to allow for regulatory changes (on states and tribes not incorporated by reference) and for proper training of referees and ringside physicians,” Helwani said.
Finally, the 12 to 6 elbow rule has been eliminated and the grounded opponent rule has been changed.
Andy Foster does it again. pic.twitter.com/uEuY930Mlt
— Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani) July 23, 2024
The definition of a downed fighter will also be changed along with the 12-to-6 elbow rule. In summary, fighters can no longer attempt to game the system or fall under a confusing situation involving a hand or palm on the pat while “standing” or keeping their knees off the ground.
“A fighter shall be considered grounded and may not be legally kneed or kicked to the head when any part of their body other than their hands or feet is in contact with the canvas (ground),” reads the change report.
The 12-to-6 elbow rule has most famously impacted fights like Jon Jones vs. Matt Hamill and Eddie Alvarez vs. Dustin Poirier 2. Jones’ lone loss in his 29-fight career (27-1, 1 no contest) came against Hamill after a dominant one round showing that resulted in a disqualification from 12-to-6 elbows from mount in 2009. Alvarez’s 12-to-6 elbow on Poirier didn’t receive the same treatment, as it landed on Poirier against the cage and led to a stand-up from an advantageous position. Therefore, leading to a Poirier technical knockout win shortly after.
Catching wind of the news, Jones reacted on Instagram.
“Undefeated then, undefeated now… Dana White we gotta get that loss out of the history books,” Jones said.