MMA
MMA weight classes and catchweights: divisions, limits and missed weight
How the current ABC Unified Rules divide professional MMA by weight, what applies when both fighters make the same contracted division, and the safety limit when a fighter misses weight.
The official weight classes
The current Unified Rules list 15 classes, from Atomweight to Super Heavyweight. The official class names and pound limits are shown below. Atomweight ≤105 lb; Straw Weight >105–115 lb; Flyweight >115–125 lb; Bantamweight >125–135 lb; Featherweight >135–145 lb; Lightweight >145–155 lb; Super Lightweight >155–165 lb; Welterweight >165–170 lb; Super Welterweight >170–175 lb; Middleweight >175–185 lb; Super Middleweight >185–195 lb; Light Heavyweight >195–205 lb; Cruiserweight >205–225 lb; Heavyweight >225–265 lb; Super Heavyweight >265 lb.
When both fighters make the contracted division
If both fighters weigh in within the same contracted division, the Unified Rules impose no additional restriction on the weight spread between them.
Missed weight and catchweight bouts
If a fighter misses the contracted weight and the competitors fall into different weight classes, the heavier fighter may not be more than 5 lb heavier than the lighter fighter. For a contracted catchweight, both fighters must be below that contracted weight, and a commission may still reject an unsafe disparity.
What is not one universal MMA rule
The Unified Rules do not set one universal procedure for weigh-in timing, extra attempts, purse deductions or title eligibility. Those details can depend on the athletic commission, event rules and bout contract.