split decision

American  

noun

Boxing.

1. a decision of a bout on whose outcome the referee and judges did not unanimously agree.

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split decision British  

noun

1. boxing the award of a fight on a majority verdict of the judges as opposed to a unanimous decision

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Etymology

Origin of split decision

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

The decision to increase interest rates was a split decision, with five of the nine board members voting for an increase.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 17, 2026

In a split decision, the appeals panel upheld his nullification of leases to Brentwood and Safety Park Corp. but reversed his ruling on UCLA, which was based on a different law.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 11, 2026

It was a split decision with two judges in the majority and one judge in the dissent.

From Slate • Jan. 21, 2026

Paul has 12 wins and one loss in his professional boxing career - that defeat coming against Fury's brother Tommy by split decision in 2023.

From BBC • Nov. 13, 2025

The Ukrainian won their first encounter in May 2024 by split decision to become the heavyweight division's first undisputed four-belt champion.

From BBC • Jul. 2, 2025