How many boxing weight classes
- Nick Woodcock
- May 19
- 4 min read
Updated: 1 day ago
Boxing for Beginners: Understanding boxing Weight Classes and How They Work
If you're just starting out in boxing, the world of weight classes can seem confusing at first. Whether you’re looking to compete, train seriously, or simply want to understand how boxing is structured, this guide breaks down everything you need to know about weight classes and why they matter.
🥊 What Are Boxing Weight Classes?
Weight classes are divisions in boxing that group fighters based on their body weight. These categories ensure fair and safe competition by matching opponents of similar size and strength.
Boxing uses weight classes to:
Prevent mismatches (a 160-pound boxer vs. a 210-pound boxer would be unfair)
Improve safety, as size can drastically affect punch power and endurance
Level the playing field, allowing skill—not just size—to decide the winner
⚖️ How Do Boxing Weight Classes Work?
Each boxer must weigh in (usually the day before the fight) and meet the weight limit of their division. If a fighter is over the limit, they might be given time to shed weight, or the fight may be cancelled or reclassified.
Some examples of professional boxing weight classes include:
Weight Class | Upper Weight Limit |
Flyweight | 112 lbs (50.8 kg) |
Bantamweight | 118 lbs (53.5 kg) |
Featherweight | 126 lbs (57.2 kg) |
Lightweight | 135 lbs (61.2 kg) |
Welterweight | 147 lbs (66.7 kg) |
Middleweight | 160 lbs (72.6 kg) |
Light Heavyweight | 175 lbs (79.4 kg) |
Cruiserweight | 200 lbs (90.7 kg) |
Heavyweight | Unlimited (200+ lbs or 90.7+ kg) |
There are more divisions in between, especially in professional boxing, but these are the main ones.
🏆 Why Does Boxing Use Weight Classes?
Boxing isn't just about power—it's about skill, endurance, and strategy. A 20-pound weight difference can mean:
More punching power
Greater ability to absorb hits
Bigger reach advantage
By using weight classes, boxers of similar size and reach fight each other, making the sport safer and more competitive. It also gives athletes of all sizes a shot at titles and recognition.
🥇 Professional Boxing Federations
In pro boxing, multiple governing bodies recognize champions in each weight class. The four major world boxing federations are:
WBA (World Boxing Association)
WBC (World Boxing Council)
IBF (International Boxing Federation)
WBO (World Boxing Organization)
Each organization can crown its own world champion in each weight class, which is why you sometimes hear about "unifying titles" when one boxer holds multiple belts from different federations.
🏴 Amateur Boxing in the UK
Amateur boxing in the UK is regulated by several organisations:
England Boxing – The main governing body for amateur boxing in England
Boxing Scotland
Welsh Boxing
IBA (formerly AIBA) – The International Boxing Association, overseeing global amateur boxing competitions like the Olympics
Amateur weight classes are slightly different and often more limited than pro divisions. The rules also differ slightly, with headgear often used (especially for younger athletes), shorter rounds, and a greater focus on technique over knockouts.
🔥 How Do Boxers "Make Weight"?
"Making weight" means hitting the maximum weight limit for your class. Boxers do this by managing their:
Diet: Often cutting calories in the days leading to the fight
Water intake: Dehydrating before the weigh-in (and rehydrating afterward)
Training: Intense cardio and sweat sessions to shed pounds quickly
Note: Drastic weight cutting can be dangerous. Beginners should focus on maintaining a healthy weight rather than extreme methods.
🥋 Which Weight Class Is Best for Beginners?
There’s no “best” weight class for everyone—it depends on your natural body size and fitness goals. However:
Start training at your natural weight without worrying too much about weight cuts
Let your coach guide you—if you’re training to compete, they’ll help you find the right category
Don’t aim to fight in a much lighter class just to gain advantage—it can be unsafe and backfire
For younger or beginner boxers, divisions are typically based on age, experience level, and weight, especially in amateur settings.
🧠 Final Tips for Beginners
Focus on fundamentals like footwork, guard, and conditioning before worrying about weight classes
Train consistently and eat a healthy, balanced diet to naturally settle into a weight class
Watch boxers in your likely weight class to study styles and common strategies
Stay safe—never try extreme dehydration or cutting weight without proper guidance
📌 Summary
Weight classes keep boxing fair and safe by matching fighters of similar size.
Professional boxing has multiple governing bodies and many weight divisions.
Amateur boxing in the UK is organized by national bodies like England Boxing.
Making weight is part of preparation, but should be done carefully.
Beginners should train at their natural weight until ready to compete.
Now your on your way to understanding boxing, keep going!
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Whether you're stepping into a boxing gym for the first time or considering amateur competition, understanding weight classes is an important first step on your boxing journey. Train smart, stay safe, and enjoy the process!
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