Boxing and judo are combat sports that differ greatly in philosophies, fundamentals and techniques. Judoka, as participants in judo are referred to, are trained to disable an opponent by throwing techniques, chokes and grappling. No punching or kicking is permitted in judo. Boxers are not allowed to hold an opponent; rather, they punch with their fists to disable an opponent.
History
The roots of boxing can be traced back to ancient Greece, where the sport was included in early Olympic Games. Modern boxing started in Europe, mostly in Great Britain. The early boxers did not wear gloves, and punches were thrown with bare knuckles. Judo began in feudal Japan and was derived from Jiu-jitsu. The modern form of judo was founded by Jigoro Kano, who was the president of the University of Education in Tokyo. Judo and boxing are both Olympic sports today.
Equipment and Uniforms
Judoka wear a uniform referred to as a judogi, or "gi", when they compete. The judogi consists of a loose-fitting jacket made of a heavy fabric, pants made from a lighter fabric and a cotton belt. Traditional judogis are white, although blue and white are now used in competition. Boxers wear loose-fitting shorts, boxing shoes, and in the case of amateurs, a covering for the torso. Both amateurs and professionals wear a mouthpiece and gloves, while amateurs are also required to wear head guards.
Training
Judokas train using either a freestyle sparring method known as "randori," or a formal method of demonstrating techniques referred to as "kata." Because judo features throwing techniques, judokas spend a significant amount of time practicing safe falls. Judokas also train to improve their strength and flexibility. Boxers train to improve their punching speed, punching power, stamina, quickness and strength. They also strengthen their core muscles so they can withstand blows to the body. Sparring with opponents is also part of a boxer's training. Other training methods used by boxers include punching a heavy bag, jumping rope, shadow boxing and punching a speed bag.
Competition
Judo competition takes place on padded mats, while boxing matches take place on an elevated platform referred to as a "ring." Both boxers and judokas compete in assigned weight classes. In judo, the color of the belt worn by judokas denotes their skill level. White belts are worn by beginners, while black belts are worn by the most highly skilled judokas. Professional boxing matches consist of between four and 12 rounds, with each round being three minutes long. Rounds in professional boxing for females are two minutes each. International judo matches are five minutes in length.
Scoring
In judo, the matches are decided by the first judoka to score one full point, which is referred to as an "ippon." A judoka is awarded an ippon for throwing an opponent on his back or shoulders, pinning him, or forcing him to submit because of an armlock or a choke hold. Partial points are also awarded for successful techniques or maneuvers. Generally, a judo match features a judging staff of two judges and a referee. A professional boxing match features three judges who score the match. In some jurisdictions, the referee scores the match as well. The winner of a round receives 10 points, while the loser receives nine points. The boxer who has the most points on the majority of the judges' scorecards is declared the winner. A boxer can also win a match by knocking out his opponent and by scoring a technical knockout. In both judo and boxing, competitors can be disqualified by the referee for breaking rules during the match.
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