BJJ Weight Classes: Your Complete Guide to Competition Divisions
What are BJJ weight classes and why do they matter?
BJJ weight classes are standardized weight divisions that ensure fair competition by matching athletes of similar size. They prevent larger competitors from having unfair physical advantages and create balanced, skill-focused matches across all major Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu organizations.
The most important organizations use different weight class systems, but they all serve the same purpose: creating fair fights where technique matters more than size.
Which BJJ organization has the most recognized weight classes?
The IBJJF (International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation) sets the global standard for BJJ weight classes.** Their system is used by most major tournaments worldwide and is considered the benchmark for competitive Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
IBJJF Weight Classes for Men (Gi Competition):
Rooster: 57.5kg (126.8 lbs)
Light Feather: 64kg (141.1 lbs)
Feather: 70kg (154.3 lbs)
Light: 76kg (167.6 lbs)
Middle: 82.3kg (181.4 lbs)
Medium Heavy: 88.3kg (194.7 lbs)
Heavy: 94.3kg (207.9 lbs)
Super Heavy: 100.5kg (221.6 lbs)
Ultra Heavy: No weight limit
IBJJF Weight Classes for Men (No-Gi Competition):
Rooster: 55.5kg (122.4 lbs)
Light Feather: 61.5kg (135.6 lbs)
Feather: 67.5kg (148.8 lbs)
Light: 73.5kg (162.0 lbs)
Middle: 79.5kg (175.3 lbs)
Medium Heavy: 85.5kg (188.5 lbs)
Heavy: 91.5kg (201.7 lbs)
Super Heavy: 97.5kg (215.0 lbs)
Ultra Heavy: No weight limit
Key difference: No-Gi divisions are 2kg lighter than Gi divisions to account for the weight of the kimono (typically 2-4 lbs).
How do ADCC weight classes differ from IBJJF?
ADCC uses only 5 men's divisions compared to IBJJF's 9, creating a simplified but more competitive system. ADCC is considered "the Olympics of grappling" and features the sport's elite athletes.
ADCC World Championship Weight Classes:
Men's Divisions:
-66kg (145.5 lbs)
-77kg (169.75 lbs)
-88kg (194 lbs)
-99kg (218 lbs)
+99kg (+218 lbs)
Women's Divisions:
-55kg (121.25 lbs)
-65kg (143.25 lbs)
+65kg (+143.25 lbs)
Major change: ADCC now requires only one weigh-in the day before competition (not daily), allowing more aggressive weight cutting similar to MMA.
What weight-cutting strategies work for BJJ competitions?
BJJ's same-day weigh-in format limits extreme weight cutting, but smart strategies can safely help you make weight. Unlike MMA, you typically weigh in 15-60 minutes before competing, so extreme dehydration hurts performance.
Safe Weight Cutting Methods:
2-3 Days Before Competition:
Low-fiber diet: Reduces gut contents by 1-1.5% body weight
Controlled fluid restriction: Cut normal intake by half (achieves ~1% weight loss)
Competition Day:
Strategic food choices: Energy-dense, low-weight foods (white bread with honey, chocolate)
Light exercise: Warm-up with extra layers to induce mild sweating
What NOT to Do:
❌ Severe dehydration (saunas, hot baths)
❌ Complete food restriction day-of
❌ Cutting more than 3% body weight in fluids
Remember: Every gram you consume shows up on the scale. Plan accordingly.
How do professional grappling organizations structure weight classes?
Professional organizations use simplified systems focused on entertainment and athlete safety. They often prioritize fewer divisions with higher-level competition.
ONE Championship Weight Classes:
Strawweight: 125 lbs (56.7 kg)
Flyweight: 135 lbs (61.2 kg)
Bantamweight: 145 lbs (65.8 kg)
Featherweight: 155 lbs (70.3 kg)
Lightweight: 170 lbs (77.1 kg)
Welterweight: 185 lbs (83.9 kg)
Middleweight: 205 lbs (93 kg)
Light Heavyweight: 225 lbs (102.1 kg)
Heavyweight: 265 lbs (120.2 kg)
Safety Innovation: ONE Championship requires hydration testing to prevent dangerous weight cuts after a fighter died from dehydration in 2015.
Craig Jones Invitational (CJI):
Under 80kg (176 lbs) - $1 Million Prize
Over 80kg (176+ lbs) - $1 Million Prize
Why only 2 divisions? This creates maximum talent density and eliminates the complexity of multiple weight classes while maintaining competitive balance.
Which weight class should you compete in?
Compete at the upper limit of your chosen division to maximize size advantages. An 87kg athlete competing in the 85-91kg division faces disadvantages against opponents cutting from 94kg.
Weight Class Selection Framework:
Step 1: Assess Your Body Composition
Get a DXA scan for accurate body fat percentage
Men can typically reach 8-10% body fat minimum
Women can typically reach 14-16% body fat minimum
Step 2: Calculate Realistic Weight Loss
Sustainable fat loss: 0.5kg per week maximum
Allow 12-16 weeks for major weight changes
Factor in 2-3% body weight from acute cutting methods
Step 3: Analyze Division Strength
Research competitor levels in target divisions
Consider long-term weight progression
Account for skill development timeline
What are the weigh-in rules for major BJJ tournaments?
IBJJF requires you to weigh in with your competition gear just before your first match. There's only one opportunity—if you don't make weight, you're immediately disqualified with no refund.
IBJJF Weigh-In Rules:
Gi Tournaments: Must wear full gi and belt
No-Gi Tournaments: Must wear competition uniform
Timing: 30 minutes before your division starts
Attempts: One chance only
No Changes: Cannot switch divisions on tournament day
Other Organizations:
NAGA: Weigh-in day before in underwear
ADCC: Day before competition (major advantage for weight cutting)
Professional Events: Varies by organization
How do different weight classes affect fighting styles?
Each weight division develops distinct technical characteristics based on the physical attributes of competitors. Understanding these meta-games helps with preparation and technique selection.
Lighter Divisions (Under 70kg):
Emphasis: Speed and technical precision
Common Techniques: Dynamic guard play, quick transitions
Finish Rate: Higher submission rates
Style: Fast-paced, scramble-heavy matches
Middle Divisions (70-90kg):
Emphasis: Balance of technique and athleticism
Common Techniques: Pressure passing, systematic control
Finish Rate: Moderate submission and decision mix
Style: Strategic, position-based grappling
Heavier Divisions (90kg+):
Emphasis: Power and pressure
Common Techniques: Top position control, crushing pressure
Finish Rate: More decisions, fewer submissions
Style: Methodical, strength-based approaches
What mistakes do beginners make with weight classes?
The biggest mistake is cutting too much weight and compromising performance. Many beginners think dropping a division automatically means easier competition, but technique matters more than size advantages.
Common Weight Class Mistakes:
❌ Extreme Weight Cutting
Cutting more than 5% body weight
Dehydrating severely for same-day weigh-ins
Not practicing weight cut before competition
❌ Poor Division Selection
Choosing based on ego rather than realistic assessment
Not researching competition levels
Ignoring long-term weight progression
❌ Inadequate Preparation
Starting weight cut too close to competition
Not testing competition day nutrition
Forgetting to account for gi weight
✅ Smart Approach:
Stay within 5-10% of competition weight year-round
Practice your weight cut and nutrition plan
Focus on technique development over weight advantages
How are BJJ weight classes evolving?
The trend is toward simplified systems with better safety protocols. Professional organizations are leading innovations that prioritize athlete health and spectator engagement.
Current Trends:
Safety Improvements:
Hydration testing (ONE Championship)
Single weigh-ins vs. daily cuts (ADCC)
Education about weight cutting dangers
Professional Standardization:
Simplified division structures (CJI model)
Higher prize purses driving participation
Integration with MMA weight classes
Technology Integration:
Digital weigh-in systems
Real-time hydration monitoring
Data-driven division adjustments
Summary: Mastering BJJ Weight Classes for Competition Success
BJJ weight classes exist to create fair, skill-based competition across different body types and sizes. The IBJJF system remains the global standard, while professional organizations like ADCC, ONE Championship, and CJI are pioneering simplified, safety-focused approaches.
Key takeaways for competitors:
Choose your division based on realistic body composition assessment
Practice safe weight cutting methods appropriate for same-day weigh-ins
Research division strength and technical meta-games
Prioritize long-term development over short-term weight advantages
Stay updated on evolving safety protocols and rule changes
Whether you train with us at Range BJJ Upper East or another BJJ school, know that the success in BJJ competition comes from understanding these weight class systems and making strategic decisions that optimize both performance and safety. The future points toward fewer, safer divisions with better athlete protections, but mastering the current systems remains essential for competitive success.
