Queensberry rules

British  

/ -brɪ, ˈkwiːnzbərɪ /

plural noun

1. the code of rules followed in modern boxing, requiring the use of padded gloves, rounds of three minutes, and restrictions on the types of blows allowed

2. informal gentlemanly or polite conduct, esp in a dispute

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Etymology

Origin of Queensberry rules

(sense 1) C19: named after the ninth Marquess of Queensberry, who originated the rules in 1869

Example Sentences

Bare-knuckle is the oldest form of boxing but became associated with unlicensed fights on wastelands after The Marquess of Queensberry rules were introduced in 1867, which insisted on gloves.

From BBC • Feb. 20, 2026

You’re not playing by the Marquess of Queensberry rules anymore.

From The New Yorker • Mar. 5, 2019

McGregor and Mayweather say their contract states they must fight using boxing’s classic Queensberry rules.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 23, 2017

But IPNav doesn’t exactly fight using the Marquess of Queensberry rules.

From New York Times • Jul. 13, 2013

Your method of fighting 40isn’t in the Queensberry rules, although I must say it was effective.

From Anything Once by Ostrander, Isabel