Texas Law Lets You Fight If Both Agree

Since its birth, Texans are no strangers to squabbles.  Known for our resilience, toughness, and grit, many people from the Lone Star State have gotten into physical altercations at some point in their lives.

Fighting, whether it is other factions such as Mexico in the war for Texas Independence, or even among ourselves, most Texans aren't shy to duke it out.

However, in 2025, most people in Texas would likely prefer to avoid confrontation to avoid jail time or personal injury.

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Texas Mutual Combat

Oddly enough, there is a lesser-known law in Texas that allows people to physically and legally fight another person if both parties agree.  This is known as "Mutual Combat."

Before you call up your mortal enemy to challenge them to fisticuffs, some rules and stipulations must be in play in order for this to be legal.

Understanding Texas Mutual Combat

In Texas, "mutual combat" refers to a situation where two individuals willingly agree, either explicitly or implicitly, to engage in a physical fight.

This concept serves as an affirmative defense in certain assault cases. This means that a person accused of assault can argue that the other party consented to the confrontation.

Texas Penal Code § 22.06

Under Texas Penal Code § 22.06, a victim's consent or the reasonable belief in the victim's consent may serve as a defense against assault charges.

Here are the limitations and rules.

• The fight must not lead to serious bodily injury.
• Consent must be both knowing and voluntary, which can be either explicit or implied.
• Involving weapons, escalating the situation beyond what was initially agreed upon, or including a non-consenting third party can nullify the mutual combat defense.

Read More: Watch Houston Texans Female Fan Get Bloodied After Altercation

Consequences

It is important to know that if a mutual combat scenario is agreed upon, you are not free from essential consequences.  Assault charges may still be charged depending on the injury or conduct during the fight.

If court proceedings do occur, proof of the agreement must be proven in order for the fight to be legal.