Yes colin stba morton, the ref does indeed check the anklets prior to the start of the bout.

In fact the same ref (our friend from the titty bar) checked the same anklets, on the same ankles, on more than one occasion that day. So why were they allowed if they were in breach of the rules? (and after reading through the WMC rules, which Gary has said are almost identical to the STBA rules, I can confirm that one pair only are allowed, with no extra padding)

My point is that in a knock out tourney, where a fighter may progress to a second or third fight, injury and wear and tear are a major consideration, and a little extra protection could easily give the fighter an unfair edge.
I reckon all fighters should have exactly the same gear, applied in exactly the same way, and then the playing field would stay level (ish), and the only difference would be what the fighter brings to the ring in the way of skill / desire etc.

I also think that there should be a strict marshalling process in the dressing room, to enforce the rules. Sure it's nice to believe that we are all fair minded sports people, and just take these things on trust. But in reality, winning is winning, and if theres a prize, theres a potential cheat (I stress the word POTENTIAL). Lets be absolutely honest with ourselves here!

Heck, I've been on the receiving end of it myself. (not in the UK btw) Got knocked spark out in my first MT fight. Never been hit that hard in my life, it was like a hammer. And the guy just didnt have the build or the technique to hit that way naturally. I saw him ungloved a few minutes before the fight, and his wrapped hands looked like the talc counter at Boots. Naive and stupid I know but I said nothing at the time. Lesson learned!