In boxing, a low blow is a punch that lands below the belt line, which referees often define around the top of the hips or belt line rather than the belly button. In practice, a punch is usually considered low when most of the glove is below that line.

What counts as low

  • Hits below the belt line are fouls.
  • The hip or belt line is commonly used as the reference point.
  • If only the edge of the glove is on the line, referees may allow it; if the majority of the glove is below it, it is usually illegal.

Why it matters

A low blow can stop the action, give the hurt boxer time to recover, and lead to a warning or point deduction depending on how severe or repeated it is.

Simple rule of thumb

If a punch lands anywhere clearly below the top of the hips and belt area, it is usually treated as a low blow.