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 such as 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.
Comparison Below are selected maximum weight limits for the major classes in different sports.
Divisions Boxing MMA Kickboxing (ONE) BJJJudo Heavyweight None Light heavyweight (half-heavyweight) Middleweight Welterweight Lightweight Featherweight Bantamweight Flyweight
See also Brazilian jiu-jitsu weight classes Boxing weight classes Judo weight classes Kickboxing weight classes Mixed martial arts weight classes Professional wrestling weight classes Taekwondo weight classes Wrestling weight classes
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