A "knockdown" refers to a situation in combat sports, such as boxing or mixed martial arts, where a fighter is struck and falls to the ground due to the impact of a blow. This event typically indicates that the fighter has been significantly hurt or incapacitated, but it does not necessarily mean the fight is over. The referee will often count to ten to determine if the fighter can continue. If the fighter is unable to rise before the count ends, it results in a "defeat" or knockout, awarding victory to the opponent. Knockdowns can be pivotal moments in a match, influencing the outcome and the strategies employed by both fighters.