Proper Terms: Default, Forfeit, Medical Forfeit
In the purest and simplest form, a default is awarded when a wrestler is unable to continue wrestling for any reason. The match has started and they cannot continue to wrestle anywhere during the match. The opponent wins and the defaulting wrestler receives the loss. A forfeit is when an opponent fails to appear for a match for any reason. Their opponent shall be present in a legal uniform on the mat, ready to wrestle. The forfeiting wrestler takes a loss on their record and is out of competition. With the introduction of the new category of Medical Forfeit, if the forfeiting wrestler cannot wrestle due to an injury or illness that occurred during the tournament. The wrestler remains in the tournament if possible (moving down to the consolation bracket) and does not take a loss on their record. This entire designation is determined by the tournament director after consultation with the on-site appropriate health-care professional and the coach of the injured or ill contestant. All three actions cease wrestling for different reasons and have unique consequences.