MMA fighters have to be in peak physical condition if they want to win in the ring. But why do MMA fighters cut weight?
The simple answer is they have to cut weight regularly to make their divisions fight weight.
Here, we’ll explore why MMA fighters cut weight, and if you’re a fighter yourself – you’ll enjoy the section on cutting wealth healthily.
How much do MMA fighters cut weight by?
MMA fighters usually cut between 10-20 pounds leading up to the fight weigh-ins. But can lose up to 30 lbs during the final 48 hours before the fight.
The rules state that fighters have 24 hours to rehydrate after a weigh-in for a professional bout.
In terms of making weight for your division, you can’t weight more than a pound over the limit for non title fights.
For title fights you can not weigh more than half a pound over the weight limit for your division.
BJJ – How To Pass Closed Guard
How do UFC fighters cut weight so fast?
UFC fighters cut weight fast by using many methods. Some are as follows:
- Saunas
- Sweat suites (used to dehydrate)
- Fasting up to 24 hours before the weigh-ins
- Run on the treadmill at a high speed
- Any intense cardio
Keep in mind that there are dangers to cutting weight fast. You’ve seen at the UFC weigh-ins some of the fighters’ reaction to cutting weight fast.
Some get dizzy and faint, while others throw up. Cutting weight fast can really have short-term and long-term effects on your body.
Some of the physical dangers of cutting weight fast can also include: developing eating disorders, having low blood sugar levels from lack of carbohydrates, and experiencing dehydration or electrolyte imbalances.
A more severe issue with cutting weight fast is developing heart problems.
Which UFC fighters cut the most weight?
The MMA fighter who cut the most weight in fighting history was Gleison Tibau. The former UFC fighter cut as much as 183 pounds to make the 155 pound lightweight limit.
It means that he cut 18.5 percent of his total body mass. This weight cut was extreme!
Here are other UFC fighters that cut the most weight to fight:
- Daniel Cormier – Walking weight 235-240 lbs. Weight cut to 205 lbs. (light heavyweight)
- Connor McGregor – Walking weight 180 lbs. Started career in the 145lbs division (lightweight)
- Anthony Johnson – Walking weight 210 lbs. Fought at 170lbs in UFC return (2014)
- Yoel Romero – Walking weight 220 lbs. Weight cut to 207.5 for Paulo Acosta fight
- Darren Till – Walking weight 210 lbs. Weight cut to 174.5 for Stephen Thompson fight
- James Irvin – Walking weight 230 lbs. First cut to 205 lbs. Then again to 185 (2 divisions)
- Cris Cyborg – Walking weight 175 lbs. Cut to 135 lbs. for Bantamweight division
- TJ Dillashaw – Walking weight 155 lbs. Weight cut to 135 lbs. for Flyweight division
- Max Holloway – Walking weight 180 lbs. Weight cut to 145 lbs. Former lightweight champ
Do any MMA fighters not cut weight?
Not all MMA fights have to cut a lot of weight. Many of the heavyweights don’t have to cut much weight because they walk around close to their divisions weight class.
Many fighters in the light heavyweight and a few at welterweight divisions don’t cut much weight. The only fighter on record to not cut any weight is Frankie Edgar.
Popular Muay Thai Clinch Takedowns
The best way to cut weight as a fighter
The best way to cut weight as a fighter is seeking the help of a dietician. These professionals can give you advice and meal plans on how to lose weight in a healthy manner.
Here are some general tips to help you start losing weight quickly and healthfully:
- Eat a balanced, nutritious diet – Make sure to include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat proteins in your diet. Avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive amounts of saturated and unhealthy fats.
- Exercise regularly – Whether you’re walking, running, biking, or doing some other form of aerobic exercise, getting your sweat on will help you lose weight and keep it off. In fact, studies show that regular exercise can also reduce the risk of developing obesity and other chronic diseases.
- Stay positive – It can be tough to stick to a healthy diet and exercise routine when everything around you seems so unhealthy. But remember – if you keep up the good work, eventually the weight will start dropping off!
Again, if you are trying to lose weight as a fighter the best option would be to consult your physician or hire a dietician. Doing it on your own can lead to your harming your body. it’s best to get professional help.
In Conclusion
MMA fighters cut weight for many reasons, but one of the most common reasons is to make the weight class they’re fighting in.
When fighters make a weight lower than what they walk around at, It gives them an advantage.
MMA fighters drop down to a particular weight for the weigh-ins and then rehydrate back up to their normal weight for the fight. This gives them a weight advantage over their opponent.
I don’t care what anyone tells you but weight matters in a fight! Forget the lies you’ve been told about it doesn’t matter how small the guy is, or how much he weighs it’s all about his skills.
Weight, skills, talent, technique, heart, and determination to will all play a role in becoming a successful MMA fighter.
So, if a fighter normally walks around 200 lbs and drops down to 185 lbs to make the Welterweight – after the weigh-ins he can rehydrate and eat until he reaches his normal weight and fight like that.
Once the weigh-ins happen he is free to gain all the weight he wants.
Meal Prep for Weight Loss: Weekly Plans and Recipes to Lose Weight the Healthy Way
Simple meal prep and recipes for long-term weight loss success. Eating healthy to lose weight doesn’t have to mean spending tons of money or hours in the kitchen every day.
Meal Prep for Weight Loss teaches you how to prepare healthy meals in efficient batches so you can enjoy them all week long.
This meal prep cookbook includes:
- 8 Meal Prep plans―Start off easily with basic 3-recipe plans and work your way to more fast and efficient 6-recipe plans.
- 75 Flavorful recipes―Enjoy Cinnamon-Roasted Sweet Potatoes, Easy Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas, Crunchy Rainbow Salad with Thai Peanut Dressing.
- Easy, balanced eating―Portion out the veggies, protein, and carbs on your plate to promote steady energy levels and sustainable weight loss.
Stay on track to your weight loss goals with the perfectly portioned meal prep plans in this healthy cookbook.
Click The Image Above