weightclass

A weight class is a defined range of body weight used to group competitors in sports in order to promote fair and safe competition. Weight classes are established by the governing bodies of various sports and can differ between organizations and events. They typically specify an upper limit for each class and, in some configurations, a lower limit as well. Athletes are weighed in before competition, usually at a formal weigh-in, to verify eligibility. Some sports use multiple weigh-ins or changes in class during a tournament.

In combat sports such as boxing, mixed martial arts, and wrestling, weight classes limit matchups to opponents of similar size and mass, helping to balance power, speed, and technique. In weightlifting and powerlifting, weight categories group athletes so that totals and records reflect relative strength within a weight class. Sports often list familiar class names—flyweight, bantamweight, featherweight, lightweight, welterweight, middleweight, light heavyweight, cruiserweight, and heavyweight—though exact limits vary by federation.

The practice supports safety but has drawbacks. Athletes may attempt weight cutting to qualify for a lower class, sometimes through dehydration or restricted intake. Some organizations have introduced additional rules, such as approved hydration tests or more frequent weigh-ins, to mitigate risks.

Overall, weight classes are a practical mechanism to structure competition by body size, while recognizing that size alone does not determine outcome and other factors such as technique and conditioning remain influential.