heavyweights

Heavyweights is a term used to describe the heaviest weight category in some sports and, more generally, to denote people or entities of substantial size or influence. In sports contexts, the term is applied to competitions featuring larger competitors and to the individuals who compete in them.

In professional boxing, heavyweight is the division for boxers weighing more than 200 pounds (90.7 kg). There is no upper weight limit, and the next lower division is cruiserweight, which covers up to 200 pounds. In amateur boxing, weight classes differ by federation; historically the heavyweight class covers boxers up to 91 kg (200 lb), with super heavyweight for those above that.

In mixed martial arts, the heavyweight division generally includes fighters between about 206 and 265 pounds (93.4–120.2 kg) in major promotions. The exact ranges can vary by organization, but 206–265 pounds is a common standard in many global promotions.

Outside combat sports, heavyweights often refers to influential figures within a field, or to a group regarded as the most powerful players. The term can thus describe both athletes in large-weight categories and prominent individuals in business, politics, or culture.

A related cultural reference is The Heavyweights, a 1995 comedy film about a weight-loss camp, which uses the term as part of its title and premise.