The World Combat League (WCL) was a full contact, team-based kickboxing promotion. It was founded by movie star and martial artist Chuck Norris. Rules The rules are typical of other full contact striking competitions, with some minor variation. Any striking techniques from Boxing, International-Style Kickboxing, and Full-Contact Karate were allowed. In order to maintain the fast pace of the action, clinching, holding or ground fighting (grappling) were prohibited. Weight divisions This represents the maximum weight for each of the men's division. 147 lbs 164 lbs 178 lbs 195 lbs 235+ lbs 128+ lbs for women. For the fighter weigh-in, there is a window of several pounds that must be met to qualify. For example, the 195 lbs division fighters are required to weight between 178 and 195, whereas the 235 lbs weight division must weigh between 195 and 235 lbs. Ring The no-rope ring (sometimes referred by fans as "the pit") is a circle which is 27 feet in diameter, of which the inner 24 feet is colored blue. The next 3 feet is yellow, which is the caution area. When the fighter gets to the yellow area, he knows he's getting close to stepping out-of-bounds. The last edge of the ring is the red zone, which features a 30-degree upward angle. When a fighter steps on the red area, he's stepping up slightly, letting him know he's out-of-bounds. Time Each match is two rounds in duration, with each round lasting three minutes. After the fighters complete their first round, the next two fighters begin their first round. After each set of fighters has completed his or her first round, then halftime is called before the first set of fighters begin their second round. This gives each fighter about 20 minutes between rounds so he or she can fight full speed for the entire time allowed. Attire All competitors must fight in approved team pants, with gloves and shinguards. No boots or shoes are allowed as of the 2006-2007 season, though fighters originally wore boots. Allowed techniques Punching - Jab, Cross, Hook, Uppercut, and Spinning Backfist. No elbows or forearms allowed. Kicking - Front-Kicks, Side Kicks, Back Kicks, Hook Kicks, Roundhouse Kicks, Wheel Kicks, Spinning Kicks. Kneeing - Front and Roundhouse. Must be above the waist. Fouls No Throws No Takedowns No Holding - Grabbing the opponent's body in an effort to stop them from attacking or countering. However, fighters