Which of the following is a common foul in amateur boxing?

• A. Hitting below the belt
• B. Stepping out of the ring
• C. Clipping the opponent's glove
• D. Observing referee instructions

Answer: (A)

Punching below the belt is prohibited because it targets a sensitive, unprotected area and violates the safety rules that govern amateur boxing. The belt line marks the lower boundary for legal blows, and blows to the groin or lower abdomen can cause serious harm. When a low blow occurs, the referee typically interrupts the action, may issue a warning or deduct points, and repeat offenses can lead to harsher penalties. This focus on keeping blows above the belt helps ensure fair competition and fighter safety.

Stepping out of the ring and clipping the opponent’s glove aren’t treated as the same kind of foul, and observing referee instructions is expected behavior, not a foul.