hold the ring
Pronunciation:
/ˈhɔʊld ðə ˌɹɪŋ//ˈhoʊld ðə ˌɹɪŋ/verb
Definitions
To maintain order among spectators encircling participants in a prizefight or a performance and keep them from coming too near the participants; to keep the ring.
To be a spectator at a fight; to watch other people argue.
To oversee a situation while attempting to remain uninvolved in it.
Example: Police held the ring during the protests.
Of a prizefighter: to hold one's own during a fight; to continue winning a series of fights.