Cryptic crossword clue
Great duel contested under formal rules 9

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word REGULATED

I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
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More clues leading to the result REGULATED

Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "under formal rules" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case under formal rules = regulated.
The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.
This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.

What does REGULATED mean?

REGULATED verb
  1. To dictate policy.
  2. To control or direct according to rule, principle, or law.
  3. To adjust to a particular specification or requirement: regulate temperature.
  4. To adjust (a mechanism) for accurate and proper functioning.
  5. To put or maintain in order.

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