Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is a highly popular combat sport that has evolved over the years. The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is the premier MMA promotion company in the world, hosting some of the biggest events with the best fighters. Understanding the weight classes and weigh-ins is essential for both fans and fighters alike. In this article, we will provide you with an in-depth guide to UFC weight classes and weigh-ins.
UFC Weight Classes The UFC currently has 12 weight classes for male fighters and four weight classes for female fighters. Each weight class has a specific weight range that fighters must meet to be eligible to compete in that weight class. The male weight classes are:
- Flyweight (up to 125 pounds)
- Bantamweight (126-135 pounds)
- Featherweight (136-145 pounds)
- Lightweight (146-155 pounds)
- Welterweight (156-170 pounds)
- Middleweight (171-185 pounds)
- Light Heavyweight (186-205 pounds)
- Heavyweight (206-265 pounds)
- Super Heavyweight (over 265 pounds)
- Catchweight (no maximum weight limit)
- Interim Championship (no official weight limit)
- Openweight (no weight limit)
The female weight classes are:
- Strawweight (up to 115 pounds)
- Flyweight (116-125 pounds)
- Bantamweight (126-135 pounds)
- Featherweight (136-145 pounds)
Weigh-Ins Weigh-ins are an important aspect of UFC events, and they take place one day before the fight. All fighters must weigh in and make weight to be eligible to compete. Fighters have a two-hour window to weigh in, and they must weigh within their designated weight class range. If a fighter misses weight, they may be fined or have their fight canceled.
The UFC has a new weigh-in policy called the “early weigh-ins,” which takes place in the morning of the official weigh-in day. This is to give fighters more time to rehydrate and recover from the weight cut before the fight.
Conclusion In conclusion, understanding UFC weight classes and weigh-ins is crucial for both fans and fighters. The UFC has specific weight classes for both male and female fighters, with a range of weight limits. Fighters must weigh in and make weight to be eligible to compete in their designated weight class. The UFC’s new weigh-in policy is designed to give fighters more time to recover from the weight cut before the fight. We hope this guide has been informative and useful for you.
