In boxing, a technical knockout (TKO) occurs when a referee stops the fight due to a fighter's inability to defend themselves adequately, often resulting from a significant number of unanswered punches or if a fighter is deemed unable to continue safely. This rule ensures the safety of the fighters involved, prioritizing their well-being over the continuation of the match. A TKO is different from a knockout (KO), where a fighter is knocked out and unable to stand up within a designated count. Both are common outcomes in professional boxing matches.