BoxRec

I've always wondered why instead of relying on refs to start counting at the right time and speed, wouldn't it be better if an electronic clock/timer was at ringside that is started by an independent person when a fighter is floored? At least it would put an end to any long counts or refs starting the count late. I don't know if anyone has ever bothered timing some refs 10 counts, they are often too fast or slow.

Other sports take advantage of technology, third eye cameras and alike.

Does anyone know if any fights have had this? Would you be in favour of it?

It is a good idea. Since this is boxing, it probably won't happen.

I think they would be reluctant to lose the ref counting over a fallen fighter because it's a major part of the theatre of boxing. Also I suppose from a practical point of view the ref only starts counting when he is happy the other guy is in a neutral corner.

J-C wrote:I think they would be reluctant to lose the ref counting over a fallen fighter because it's a major part of the theatre of boxing. Also I suppose from a practical point of view the ref only starts counting when he is happy the other guy is in a neutral corner.

The ref could count from the timer, have it somewhere very visible at ringside. As the boxer is down, or possibly has his back to the timer, he would still need the ref counting.

It's a good idea, but boxing isn't too big on new ideas. Now if we could somehow make this clock into a title belt......

the ref doesn't start the count, he picks it up from the timekeeper. Most venues will have the timekeeper on the PA doing the count.

orbtastic wrote:the ref doesn't start the count, he picks it up from the timekeeper. Most venues will have the timekeeper on the PA doing the count.

Good point.

New York has a referee sitting next to timekeeper who starts the count.

I was referring to the actual speed of the count, using an actual timer rather than relying on someone just counting out loud. Do some places do this as there are times when the refs count too slow or fast

Controversial wrote:I was referring to the actual speed of the count, using an actual timer rather than relying on someone just counting out loud. Do some places do this as there are times when the refs count too slow or fast

You make a good point regarding the speed of the count. There's been some extreme variations over the years. But as someone already said, it does add to the threatre.

TrainInsane wrote:

Controversial wrote:I was referring to the actual speed of the count, using an actual timer rather than relying on someone just counting out loud. Do some places do this as there are times when the refs count too slow or fast

You make a good point regarding the speed of the count. There's been some extreme variations over the years. But as someone already said, it does add to the threatre.

Yes it does add to the whole drama of the sport, but considering its a very easy and cheap thing to implement, especially in todays tech environment. Also when you consider the large amount of money involved in big bouts its quite strange they don't insist on it.