Open Scoring System: A New Level of Transparency in Boxing
The World Boxing Council (WBC) once again reaffirms its firm commitment to the principles of transparency and fairness in boxing, highlighting the open scoring system as one of the fundamental pillars of this vision.
The introduction of open scoring in selected WBC-sanctioned bouts allows judges’ scorecards to be publicly announced after a certain number of rounds — usually after the 4th and 8th rounds. In the case of the successful WBC Grand Prix, the scores are revealed after the 2nd and 4th rounds.
This approach, implemented for several years now, aims to ensure greater transparency and accountability for boxers, fans, and corner teams alike.
Advantages of WBC Open Scoring:
- Greater transparency: provides immediate access to scorecards, eliminating doubts about the flow of the fight.
- Judges’ accountability: public disclosure of interim scores increases accountability and promotes more accurate and objective judging.
- Better strategic decisions: teams can adjust tactics based on the announced scores, making fights more dynamic and intense.
- Enhanced fan experience: spectators gain a clearer understanding of the bout, making viewing more exciting.
- Fewer controversies: helps avoid post-fight disputes by offering a clear picture of how the scoring unfolds.
Despite ongoing debates within the boxing community regarding open scoring, the WBC strongly believes in its long-term benefits for the sport and takes pride in its growing implementation worldwide.
