I was wondering what exactly or how long exactly does it take to go from amatuer fighter to pro? IAnd what exactly are the difference in rules and regulations?
Theres plenty of information about for the taking you preahps shpuld of done a little research before posting this (as you are probably going to get flamed)
But here goes, the queastion itself is a bit like how long is a peice of string? answer its that long.....The length of an amature going pro is as long as it takes for you to mature enough as a fighter for someone to want to pay you to do it.
If I recall correctly Frank Mir went Pro in 2 fights, kimbo went pro after entering 2 "smoker" tournaments so possibly around 6 fights.
As for rules that will vary based upon the promotion your in Shooto (the only rules I'm really quilfied to talk about) has a class system A,B,C,D with C & D being the amature classes running shorter rounds and wearing protective equipment and A & B of course being pro with longer rounds and no shin guards and so on.
Some places have no regulation on turning pro. It actually depends on your prior experience in other combat sports as well. For example if you have pro boxing experience most sanctioning bodies aren't going to let you fight amateur.
As far as rule difference goes, most amateur fights are are shorter and don't allow elbows on the ground. Also, refs are cautioned to stop amateur fights more quickly than pro. It is a time to learn, not to get damage.
