Why Do Professional Boxers No Longer Wear Mouthguards in Some Bouts?

By Kasim Javed Boxing Equipment

Mouthguards have always been a staple in and out of the boxing ring. But some fighters opt to go without. Some fighters prefer to go without mouthguards to improve breathing, and improve communication with their corner and the lack of comfort may hinder fighters. There are a plethora of reasons why fighters (given fight regulations) are opting to fight without mouth protection.

Mouthguards are the best way to stave off severe dental injuries, broken jaws and in some cases, concussions. Is this a new trend? Are mouthguards no longer mandatory? And most importantly, is it safe to fight without one?

This article will explore why some boxers choose not to wear mouthguards, the risks involved, and whether boxing regulations on protective gear have changed.

Are Mouthguards Still Used in Professional Boxing?

Using a mouthguard is still the norm in professional boxing, but there are occasions when fighters can go without. Despite this, professional boxing regulations vary by governing body and location. A recent development is that high-profile heavy hitters have been seen fighting without mouthguards.

When the governing bodies have no say over protection, some fighters feel more comfortable and less restricted without mouthguards. Context is important in understanding why some fighters choose to neglect mouth protection. For the less experienced fighters, using a mouthguard is a no-brainer and should be prioritised for upcoming bouts.

Why Some Boxers Don’t Wear Mouthguards

The Risks of Not Wearing a Mouthguard Whilst Boxing

Although most professionals still use mouthguards, a few notable exceptions have led to speculation about why some boxers choose to go without them. These are the main reasons why some boxers choose not to wear mouthguards:

Improved Breathing and Endurance

Some fighters believe mouthguards interfere with breathing efficiency, especially in high-paced fights where oxygen intake is important.
A tighter, more secure fit can reduce discomfort, but some athletes feel even custom-made mouthguards restrict airflow.

Enhanced Communication

Fighters who rely on their corners for quick changes may find that a mouthguard makes communication tough between rounds.

Minimal Risk in Certain Styles of Fighting

Some defensive, technical boxers who rarely get hit may feel a mouthguard is unnecessary.
Fighters who rely on head movement and counter-punching often assume they can avoid the risk of heavy blows.

Loose or Uncomfortable Fit

Even high-quality mouthguards can sometimes feel loose or awkward, prompting fighters to remove them during breaks or even mid-fight.
Some boxers prefer thinner, low-profile mouthguards that feel less restrictive.

Personal Preference & Superstition

Some fighters have developed personal habits or superstitions about their gear, including not wearing certain equipment.
If they’ve had success without a mouthguard in training or previous fights, they might continue to fight without one.

The Risks of Not Wearing a Mouthguard Whilst Boxing

The risks outweigh the benefits when it comes to mouthguards. Skipping protection may seem like a minor issue, but when the risks are laid out bare there is a large case for concern.

Increased Dental Damage

A single clean punch can chip, fracture, or completely knock out a tooth.
Dental repairs are costly and can permanently impact a boxer’s career.

Higher Risk of Lip & Gum Lacerations

Punches that push the lips into the teeth can cause deep cuts, leading to excessive bleeding and fights being halted.

Greater Risk of Jaw Fractures

Without a mouthguard, the force of a punch is more likely to fracture the jaw, potentially sidelining a fighter for months.

Increased Concussion Risk

Mouthguards help absorb and redistribute impact, reducing shock to the brain.
Studies suggest that fighters without mouthguards experience more concussive blows due to increased force transmission.

Longer Recovery Time

Injuries sustained without a mouthguard often require surgery or extensive recovery, affecting a boxer’s fight schedule.
Even boxers with elite defensive skills can get caught with a clean punch. Failing to wear a mouthguard increases the severity of injuries when that happens.

How Boxing Regulations on Mouthguards Have Changed

Mouthguards have been mandatory in amateur boxing for decades, but professional boxing follows different rules. With so many conflicting opinions on mouthguards, it’s best to understand when and where mouthguards are mandatory and when they’re optional.

Amateur and Olympic Boxing

Mouthguards are 100% mandatory under AIBA and Olympic regulations.
If a mouthguard is lost mid-fight, the referee stops the bout until the fighter replaces it.

Professional Boxing (WBC, WBA, IBF, BBBofC, etc.)

Most professional commissions require mouthguards, but enforcement varies.
Fighters may remove them between rounds, but referees can warn or penalise boxers who repeatedly lose their mouthguards.
Some states and countries enforce stricter mouthguard rules than others.

While no major governing body has officially removed the mouthguard requirement, some leniency exists in certain professional promotions, allowing fighters to make personal choices about their gear.

Risks of Wearing vs. Not Wearing a Mouthguard

If you’re on the fence about mouthguard protection, it’s worth weighing up the risks that are attached to fighting without. Thankfully, there are rules and regulations in place to protect those who may be on the receiving end of a broken jaw. Consider these when approaching your next bout:

Factor	Wearing a Mouthguard	Not Wearing a Mouthguard
Dental Protection	Prevents chipped/broken teeth	High risk of tooth damage
Jaw Protection	Reduces force on the jaw	Increased risk of fractures
Breathing & Endurance	Slight airflow restriction	Better airflow, but at a cost
Speech & Communication	Can make talking harder	Easier to talk between rounds
Concussion Risk	Absorbs impact, reducing shock	Higher chance of head trauma
Rule Compliance	Required in most competitions	Possible warnings or penalties

Verdict: The risks of not wearing a mouthguard far outweigh the slight advantages in breathing or communication. Finding the right mouthguard that sits right and isn’t a detriment to your fighting game is as important as finding the right gloves.

Should You Train Without a Mouthguard? Expert Advice

Many boxers wonder if they should train without a mouthguard to simulate bouts in the ring.
However, experts generally recommend always wearing one, especially during:

Sparring sessions
High-intensity training can lead to accidental heavy shots. Even if you are sparring with a friend, it is best to both wear protection to protect yourselves but also your friendship.

Pad work and partner drills
Even controlled training can involve unexpected contact. After all, boxing is a combat sport, regardless of what you’re training.

Strength and conditioning
Wearing a mouthguard during conditioning helps simulate fight fatigue and improve endurance. The more time you spend with a mouthguard, the better you’ll be for your next fight.

While some fighters might practice controlled breathing drills without a mouthguard, it’s always best to train as you fight. It’s good to remind yourself that the small percentile that operates without mouthguards is often at the top of their game.

The Best Ways to Stay Safe in the Boxing Ring

Safety is no joke when it comes to boxing. Just one punch is all it takes to uproot the trajectory of your training. Investing in quality boxing gear, and honing defence and practice are the best ways to become a champion.

Wear a Custom-Fit Mouthguard: Avoid generic mouthguards that feel uncomfortable or restrict breathing.
Invest in High-Quality Protective Gear: Headgear, groin guards, and mouthguards all play a role in safety.
Follow Boxing Regulations: If a mouthguard is mandatory, use it to avoid penalties.
Prioritise Defensive Skills: Even with protective gear, head movement and guard positioning reduce injury risk.

By combining practice, technique and quality gear, you’ll be well on your way to showing everyone what you’re made of.

Maxx Pro Boxing: Premium Mouthguards for Maximum Protection

At Maxx Pro Boxing, we understand that safety should never come at the cost of performance. That’s why we are a trusted supplier of quality affordable boxing gear. We stock boxing gloves, punchbags, protective gear, focus shields, wall brackets and MMA apparel. Fighting not your bag? We stock a wide range of fitness gear and apparel that will help you rise to every occasion.