In 1838, the London Prize Ring rules were codified. Later revised in 1853, they stipulated the following:[7]
- Fights occurred in a 24 feet (7.3 m)-square ring surrounded by ropes.
- If a fighter was knocked down, he had to rise within 30 seconds under his own power to be allowed to continue.
- Biting, headbutting and hitting below the belt were declared fouls.