’12 to 6′ elbow rule eliminated: MMA’s controversial rule explained 

Although the elbow was once seen to be more deadly than an angled elbow blow, its benefits remain highly debated, especially by retired referee John McCarthy. He was involved in the development of the first unified rules in 2000. Under the new ruleset, 12 to 6 elbows will no longer be viewed as an illegal strike in MMA.

The controversial history of the 12 to 6 elbow 

The 12 to 6 elbow was banned in MMA because of perceived danger, which stemmed from early martial arts displays that involved smashing bricks. Critics say it is inconsistently enforced and no more harmful than other strikes. Despite ongoing discussions, the strike was always declared illegal. With many asking for rule re-evaluation, it has finally occurred.

The most well-known 12 to 6 elbow in mixed martial arts history belongs to the UFC heavyweight Jon Jones. In 2009, Jones was winning the fight until he hit Matt Hamill with 12 to 6 elbows. This forced referee Steve Mazzagatti to stop the fight and disqualify Jones. The DQ is still Jones’ only defeat in his highly decorated 29-fight MMA career. 

A large part of the misunderstanding around the 12-to-6 elbow stemmed from its execution. Delivering the identical strike at any angle other than directly up and down was permitted. The referee often made a judgment call on whether a fighter threw a 12-to-6 elbow or if the strike was thrown at an angle other than directly up and down.

The new rule for grounded opponent 

The other controversial rule that the committee amended was above the debate around hitting a grounded opponent. The unified rules have always prohibited kicks and knees to the heads of grounded opponents. Meanwhile, the definition of a grounded opponent has changed now. 

The new rule clearly states:

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). Association of Boxing Commissions and Combat Sports Mixed Martial Arts Committee via official statement

Under the former rule, a fighter had to have at least one hand down and any other body part contacting the floor. Technically, two hands touching the canvas can be considered a grounded opponent. No kicks or knee attempts to the head remain possible in that situation.

According to the new regulation, a fighter must have a body part on the canvas other than their hands or feet to be considered grounded. Otherwise, knees and kicks to the head are allowed.

The committee aiming to implement changes includes referees like Marc Goddard, Herb Dean , and John McCarthy. Executive directors Andy Foster of the California State Athletic Commission and Jeff Mullen of the Nevada Athletic Commission were other influential figures. They voted on and approved the rule changes and modifications.