Divisions to match sizes of opponents
Weight classes are divisions of competition used to match competitors against others of their own size. Weight classes are used in a variety of sports including rowing , weight lifting , and especially combat sports [ 1] boxing , kickboxing , mixed martial arts , wrestling , and Brazilian jiu-jitsu . Alternatives to formal weight classes include catch weight and openweight .
The existence of weight divisions gives rise to the practice of weight cutting . To be the largest individual in a weight division is perceived as advantageous; therefore many athletes lose weight through dieting and dehydration prior to weigh-ins to qualify for a lower weight class.[ 2]
Comparison
Below are selected maximum weight limits for the major classes in different sports.
Divisions
Boxing
MMA
Kickboxing (ONE )
BJJ
Judo
Heavyweight
200.6 lb
(91 kg)
264.6 lb
(120 kg)
265.0 lb
(120.2 kg)
94.3 kg (207.9 lb)
+100 kg (220.5 lb)
Light heavyweight 175 lb (79.4 kg)
205 lb (93.0 kg)
225 lb (102.1 kg)
88.5 kg (195.1 lb)
Middleweight 160 lb (72.6 kg)
185 lb (83.9 kg)
205 lb (93.0 kg)
82.3 kg (181.4 lb)
90 kg (198.4 lb)
Welterweight 147 lb (66.7 kg)
170 lb (77.1 kg)
185 lb (83.9 kg)
Lightweight 135 lb (61.2 kg)
155 lb (70.3 kg)
170 lb (77.1 kg)
76 kg (167.6 lb)
73 kg (160.9 lb)
Featherweight 126 lb (57.2 kg)
145 lb (65.8 kg)
155 lb (70.3 kg)
70 kg (154.3 lb)
Bantamweight 118 lb (53.5 kg)
135 lb (61.2 kg)
145 lb (65.8 kg)
57.5 kg (126.8 lb)
Flyweight 112 lb (50.8 kg)
125 lb (56.7 kg)
135 lb (61.2 kg)
See also
References
Weight classes at Wikimedia Commons
