rematch

A rematch is a subsequent competitive encounter between the same participants after a previous contest, typically held to determine a winner more definitively or to resolve a disputed result. The term is widely used across sports, games, and competitive activities. Rematches may occur after a close or controversial outcome, when a title or ranking is at stake, or at the request of one or both competitors, promoters, or governing bodies.

Rematches can be scheduled as part of a league or tournament structure or negotiated through contracts and rules governing the competition. They may use the same format as the original contest or involve changes in format, venue, stakes, or conditions (for example, a title defense, a different weight class, or a different game mode). If the initial result is considered unsatisfactory by participants or fans, a rematch can be organized to settle the rivalry more conclusively.

Common contexts include boxing and mixed martial arts, where rematches are a regular feature of championship or high-profile bouts. In chess, rematches occur in world championship cycles and other elite matches. In video games and esports, teams or players may face each other again in a rematch within a tournament bracket or a best-of series.

Etymology-wise, rematch combines re- meaning “again” with match, signaling a repeat contest. In usage, a rematch denotes any repeat competition between the same players or teams, regardless of whether a title is involved.