The 10-Point Must System
The UFC uses the 10-point must system to score fights. In each round, judges award 10 points to the winner and 9 or fewer points to the loser. Most rounds are scored 10-9, meaning one fighter won the round clearly. If a round is very close, it may be scored 10-9 as well. A round where both fighters perform equally well is rare but can result in a 10-10 score.
How Judges Evaluate Rounds
Judges score each round based on effective striking, grappling, ground control, and overall octagon control. Effective striking means punches and kicks that land cleanly and cause impact. Grappling includes takedowns, submissions, and dominant positioning. Judges also consider a fighter's aggression and octagon control. The fighter who demonstrates the most effective techniques and control typically wins the round.
Round Scoring Examples
A 10-9 round means one fighter clearly won that round. A 10-8 round indicates one fighter dominated significantly, such as winning a round where the opponent was knocked down or nearly submitted. A 10-10 round is uncommon and means both fighters performed equally. After all rounds are scored, the judge adds up the total points. The fighter with the most total points wins the fight.
Decision Types
When a fight goes to a decision after all rounds are scored, the outcome depends on the judges' scorecards. A unanimous decision means all three judges scored the fight for the same fighter. A split decision means two judges scored it one way and one judge scored it the other way. A majority decision means two judges agreed on the winner and one scored it a tie. The fighter winning the decision is declared the victor.
Other Ways to Win
Fights can also end before the final decision is read. A knockout happens when a fighter cannot continue due to a strike. A submission occurs when one fighter makes the other tap out or the referee stops it due to an inescapable hold. A technical knockout happens when the referee stops the fight because one fighter cannot defend themselves. The doctor or referee can also stop a fight if an injury makes it unsafe to continue. 
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