UFC 21 marked significant rule changes due to the Council of the Mixed Martial Arts Commission: preliminary bouts now consisted of two five minute-rounds, main card bouts were three five-minute rounds and championship bouts were five five-minute rounds (similar to the Unified Rules of Combat used today in the USA). UFC 21 was the first UFC event to adopt the 10-point must system, commonly used in boxing, to judge fights instead of each judge merely stating their choice of fighter. 10 points are awarded for fighters who win the round, 6-9 points for the fighter that loses the round. Points awarded for Octagon control, effective striking, grappling/near submissions, and aggressiveness. The UFC continues to be held in the Southern States where it is sanctioned by the Council of the Mixed Martial Arts Commission, specifically IOWA on this occasion.