Every licensed KBN athlete must hold a valid medical clearance, issued by a registered medical practitioner and recorded by the branch medical officer. This short guide explains what that means in practice.
What clearance is
Medical clearance is a doctor's confirmation that you are fit to compete in combat sports. What the examination involves depends on your country, discipline, category and the event's requirements. Some events and jurisdictions require specific tests; ask the organiser and your national federation.
What KBN records
KBN keeps medical data to the minimum:
- A clearance validity date.
- A suspension flag, including post-bout medical suspensions.
No diagnoses are stored. The privacy notice treats medical information as special-category data and limits it exactly to these items.
Where clearance is checked
- At event check-in: when officials scan your licence QR code in the referee app, they see your clearance validity.
- On your licence: licence conditions state it is valid only while you hold a valid medical clearance and are not suspended.
- For published tables: athletes must hold a valid licence and valid medical clearance to appear in a published table under the ranking regulations.
| Item | Shown |
|---|---|
| Licence status | Active / Suspended / Expired |
| Medical clearance | Valid until date |
| Suspension | Yes / No |
| Weigh-in | Weight vs class limit, pass / fail |
Medical suspensions after bouts
The ringside doctor may order a medical suspension after a bout, for example after a knockout. KBN records it and enforces it across all branches. Follow it: it exists to protect your brain and body.
Keeping clearance valid
- Note your clearance expiry date and book renewals in advance.
- Upload new clearance through your branch or portal as requested.
- Keep copies of your medical certificates yourself.
Privacy
Your medical documents are stored privately, served only through signed, authorised links, and every access is logged. They are never public.
Preparing for your medical
- Bring your medical history, including previous injuries, concussions and surgeries.
- List all medicines and supplements you take.
- Ask what tests the events you plan to enter require.
- Ask for your clearance to state its validity date clearly.
For branch medical officers
Record clearance validity dates accurately and promptly, and record post-bout medical suspensions ordered by ringside doctors so they are enforced at every KBN event. Keep diagnoses out of the system: only the validity date and suspension flag are stored.
For officials
At check-in, a missing or expired clearance means the athlete cannot compete under KBN sanction. Do not make exceptions; involve the event doctor and supervisor.
Myths and facts
| Myth | Fact |
|---|---|
| KBN stores my medical file | Only a validity date and suspension flag are recorded |
| Clearance lasts for my whole career | It has a validity date; renew it in time |
| Officials can overrule the doctor | The doctor's assessment comes first |
| Medical suspensions are public | Medical details are not public; officials see suspension status at check-in |
Timeline for a new athlete
- Before your first bout: get a medical examination that meets the event's requirements.
- When you apply for a KBN ranking: your branch's medical officer records your clearance validity date once you are being licensed.
- Before each event: check your clearance will still be valid on the day.
- After any bout: follow the ringside doctor's advice and any medical suspension.
What happens if clearance expires mid-season
An expired clearance does not delete your record or points. It means you cannot compete under KBN sanction until a new clearance is recorded, and the licence conditions (valid only while medically cleared) apply. Renew early to avoid missing events.
Travelling to events abroad
Medical requirements differ between countries and events. Before travelling, ask the organiser which medical documents are accepted, whether additional tests are required, and whether documents must be translated. Carry copies, and check that your KBN clearance validity covers the event date.
Frequently asked questions
QDoes KBN see my medical results?
KBN records a clearance validity date and suspension flags only; diagnoses are not stored.
QCan I compete with expired clearance?
Not under KBN sanction. Renew it before the event.
QWho records my clearance?
The branch medical officer records it in the system.
QIs a medical suspension public?
The verify page shows licence status; medical details are not public. Officials see suspension status at check-in.
Figures in this article are computed from the KBN register at the time of reading. View, like and share counters on this demo site are sample values.