Last updated: 3 August 2026
Reviewed by Jordan Makin, FA Level 2 Football Coach
MMA weight classes ensure fair competition between similarly-sized fighters. The UFC recognises 8 men’s and 4 women’s weight classes. Weight cutting — dehydrating before weigh-ins to compete in a lighter class — is controversial; ONE Championship now uses hydration testing to prevent it. Most competitive MMA fighters walk around 5-10% above their fight weight. Moving up (or down) a weight class is a common strategic decision as careers develop.
Key points
- 8 men’s and 4 women’s UFC divisions
- Strawweight 52.2 kg to Heavyweight 120.2 kg
- Weight cutting is common but controversial
- ONE Championship uses hydration tests
Try the tool
Put this into practice with our free calculator.
Open the MMA Weight Class Calculator →