Fighter Classes
Shooto fighters are categorized into four Classes.
- Class-D : Amateur (2x2min, Headgear, Special point system)
- Class-C : Amateur (2x3min, Headgear, Special point system)
- Class-C+: Amateur (2x3min)
- Class-B : Pro (2x5min)
- Class-A : Pro (3x5min)
Fighters start out as Class-D or Class-C fighters and enter amateur competitions that Shooto hosts together with the help of local gyms all over Japan. Class-D Shooto does not allow knee strikes to the face or striking on the ground. Class-C Shooto does not allow striking on the ground, but knee strikes to the head are allowed. There are regional championship and once a year the All-Japan amateur championships. Then a fighter can get a Class-B pro license, these fights are 2x5 minute long and use the same rules as Class-A fights. For new pros Shooto each year hold a rookie tournament in each weightclass.
When a fighter has gathered enough wins and experience in Class-B he will get awarded with a Class-A license, as a sign that he's part of the elite professional fighters.
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