Headguards are mandatory in the U.S. and in major international competitions. This is a safety precaution that gives the referee eight seconds to evaluate the condition of the boxer. Based on the physician's opinion, the bout will continue or be stopped. The physician may also examine a boxer between rounds. The physician's decision to stop or continue a match is binding.
More control is exercised by the referee in the ring.
Referees caution boxers to let them know that they are violating fundamentals and rules. Referee will stop the bout if a boxer is out-classed. If a bout is stopped because of blows to the head, the boxer is not allowed to compete or workout in the gym for a specified period of time. Depends on the state. Therefore, the striking area is limited to the knuckle of the fist and must hit the front and side of the body and head and above the waist.