Boxing has its fair share of terms and acronyms that might seem confusing to new fans. One such term is RTD. If you’ve seen this pop up on a fight result and wondered, “What is RTD in boxing?”, let’s break it down in a way that actually makes sense—no jargon, no guesswork.
What Does RTD Mean in Boxing?
RTD stands for “Retired.” It’s used when a boxer does not answer the bell for the next round, meaning they or their corner decides to stop the fight between rounds.
Unlike a knockout or referee stoppage, an RTD isn’t a moment in action—it’s a decision made during the 60-second rest. Think of it like throwing in the towel, but with more control and less drama.
Why Would a Boxer Choose RTD?
The RTD call is made to protect the fighter from injury or further punishment. Here’s why it might happen:
- Injury: Swollen eye, fractured hand, or other physical harm
- Exhaustion: Extreme fatigue or unable to continue safely
- Tactical Decision: Trainer feels the boxer is outclassed or outmatched
While it might not feel like a heroic ending, RTD is a smart choice for long-term health, something that should matter more than a single fight.
Curious about boxing injuries and how to avoid them? Read Common Injuries in Boxing
How Is RTD Recorded?
Here’s where it gets a little technical: an RTD is officially counted as a TKO (technical knockout) in the record books.
For example, if a boxer retires after Round 6, the bout ends as a TKO at the start of Round 7, even if no punch was thrown in that round.
RTD vs Other Stoppages
| Term | Who Stops It | When It Happens |
|---|---|---|
| RTD | Corner or Boxer | Between rounds |
| TKO | Referee or Doctor | During the round |
| KO | Opponent | During the round (no 10-count recovery) |
Understanding the difference helps when watching or scoring a fight. Learn more with Boxing Match Terms
Famous RTD Moments in Boxing
- Muhammad Ali vs. Sonny Liston (1964) – Liston refused to continue after Round 6, citing a shoulder injury. Ali became heavyweight champ.
- Vasiliy Lomachenko vs. Guillermo Rigondeaux (2017) – Rigondeaux retired on his stool after Round 6. It was his first pro loss.
These moments show that even elite fighters can face an RTD—it’s about safety, not weakness.
Does RTD Mean the Boxer Quit?
Not quite. “Quitting” in boxing carries an unfair stigma. Sometimes, the smartest move is stepping back when you’re compromised. That’s why many trainers pull the plug before their fighter gets seriously hurt.
If you’re wondering “is boxing good for fitness?”, just know this: real strength isn’t just about throwing punches. It’s about knowing when to stop too.
Explore the benefits of safe training here: Fitness Boxing Exercises
Boxing Gear to Train Smart
Whether you’re sparring or conditioning, make sure your gear works as hard as you do:
Training with the right equipment lowers the risk of injury and the need to RTD.
Related Reads You’ll Love
- What Is the W on the Boxing Ring Sponsor?
- How to Win a Boxing Match
- How to Prevent Brain Damage in Boxing
- Progressive Overload in Boxing
Final Bell: RTD Is a Smart Move
So next time you see RTD in a fight result, remember—it doesn’t mean the fighter gave up. It means they fought with enough awareness and self-respect to live to fight another day.
What is RTD in boxing? It’s a sign of wisdom, not weakness.
