Everything You Need to Know About Weight Classes in MMA/UFC

The discipline required in training for MMA/UFC, or any other combat sport, carries over to competition. There are certain rules and expectations to uphold, including weight class categorizations.

To ensure a fair and safe environment, weight classes group fighters who are similar in size and weight. This emphasizes training strategies and fight preparation versus unbalanced physical dominance. 

This guide outlines UFC weight classes for men and women, the walk-around weights of fighters, and the challenges of weight cuts to give you an idea of what is required to compete.

Complete List of Weight Classes in MMA/UFC

There are eight different weight classes in men’s MMA/UFC and four divisions for women’s. 

MMA/UFC Men’s Weight Classes

Men’s MMA weight divisions range from flyweight, which is the lightest, all the way up to the heavyweight class. The weight limits for each are listed as follows:

• Flyweight (up to 125 lbs.)
• Bantamweight (126-135 lbs.)
• Featherweight (136-145 lbs.)
• Lightweight (146-155 lbs.)
• Welterweight (156-170 lbs.)
• Middleweight (171-185 lbs.)
• Light Heavyweight (186-205 lbs.)
• Heavyweight (206-265 lbs.)

Read More: Choosing the Best MMA Gloves by Weight Class

MMA/UFC Women’s Weight Classes

Women’s UFC weight classes include the following, from lightest to heaviest:

• Strawweight (up to 115 lbs.)
• Flyweight (116-125 lbs.)
• Bantamweight (126-135 lbs.)
• Featherweight (136-145 lbs.)

Read More: What Equipment Do You Need to Start MMA?

Walk-Around Weight vs. Fight Weight

The day before a fight, UFC competitors are required to attend official weigh-ins. At that time, they must weigh in or around a specific weight. 

Generally, the walk-around weight UFC fighters carry is significantly heavier than their official fight weight. For instance, heavyweight UFC walk-around weight can reach 280 lbs., which is 15 more than the maximum requirement. This is so they can lose the least amount during the weight-cutting process and still meet the requirements. 

Shop Best MMA Gear for Training

The weight-cutting process is a normal part of the fight world. Fighters who miss weight face fines, fight cancellations, or reduced pay. Missing weight can also hurt a fighter’s reputation and future opportunities.

Fighters often undergo strict diets and dehydration techniques like using sweat suits to make weight for weigh-ins. This allows them to gain a competitive advantage since being heavier in the fight provides more power and strength.

However, when taken to the extreme, it can have long-term health consequences which can take a toll on the mind and body. 

Challenges of UFC Fighters’ Weight Cuts

Losing weight in a short amount of time is tough on the body, especially if this is achieved through dehydration and/or starvation. There are both physical and physiological hardships to account for including: 

Physical Hardships

Severe dehydration can cause dizziness, weakness, and impaired performance in fights. Rapid weight cuts can lead to long-term health issues like kidney damage, hormonal imbalance, and reduced endurance during the fight.

Psychological Impact

Cutting weight can cause stress, anxiety, and fatigue, impacting mental sharpness in training and during the fight. Many fighters also struggle with the mental pressure of gaining weight, which can affect focus and confidence.

Although fighters rehydrate and refuel immediately after weigh-ins to regain their strength and endurance for fight night, it’s important to be mindful of the consequences that the damage extreme weight-cutting strategies can have on the body.  

Competing at the Highest Level

In competition, weight classes play a critical part in UFC/MMA. It allows the focus of fights to be on skill, technique, and strategy. However, it takes physical and mental toughness to compete at the highest levels to manage the challenges that come with it. 

To better prepare for any competition, having the support and protection of best-in-class gear can provide you with an extra edge. Level up your training and shop Hayabusa MMA Gear to set yourself up for fighting success.