Boxing Commission Waives Rule for Rematch

For the first time in its history, the California Athletic Commission has waived its mandatory 45-day suspension rule for a fighter who has been officially knocked out and will allow Rafael Ruelas to fight Aug. 17 on a nationally televised card in San Diego.

Ruelas, the former North American Boxing Federation featherweight champion, lost for the first time in 27 pro fights Tuesday night in Reseda when he was knocked down by Mauro Gutierrez of Mexico and failed to get up at the count of 10.

Ruelas, 20, of Arleta, rose to one knee at the count of three and appeared to have recovered from the punch, but he stayed on one knee at the urging of his trainer, Joe Goossen. Referee Chuck Hassett counted to 10 and signaled the end of the fight. At that moment, Ruelas bolted to his feet and argued with Hassett.

Ruelas was examined Wednesday and Thursday by two doctors, including a neurologist, both of whom determined that Ruelas did not sustain a head injury.

Steve English, the head of the commission, ruled Friday that the automatic 45-day suspension will be waived.

Dan Goossen, Ruelas’ manager, said negotiations are under way for a rematch between Ruelas and Gutierrez. Goossen said the rematch would take place Aug. 17 on the undercard of the Terry Norris-Brett Lally World Boxing Council super welterweight title fight.