Professional Boxing Weight Classes

May 17, 2012

Back in the old days of boxing, professional boxing weight classes do not exist yet. A rather crude system, however, was used to set weight limits for boxers. In the early part of the 1800s, the limit for lightweight boxers was twelve stone. Since this weight class system is rather inaccurate, mismatched bouts are uncommon. It could have been all right if not for the fact that mismatches due to this crude system posed dangers to smaller fighters. The absence of professional weight classes also makes it impossible for organizers to establish national and world boxing titles. It was not until 1909 that the first sets of professional boxing weight classes were specified. This was done through the effort of the National Sporting Club of London. The passing of the 1920 Walker Law also played an important role in the establishment of these professional boxing weight classes.

The establishment of professional boxing weight classes is actually based on a simple rule. The lower limit of the following higher weight class is the upper weight limit of every class. Only the heavyweight division in professional boxing has no upper limit. In amateur boxing, this is called the supper heavy weight class. Every boxing match must be scheduled for a fixed or definite weight class. This means that the boxers individual weights are always based on the standard weight class and must not go beyond the upper limit. It must also be noted that amateur level boxers weight must not fall below standardized lower limit. Pro boxers, on the other hand, may fight opponentswho weigh beyond their weight class. During individual bouts, however, rival parties can agree upon a non-standard weight range. This non-standard limit is formally known as a catch weight.

It is a reality that professional boxers seldom weigh less between scheduled bouts. This is why extensive training has become a process in getting a fighter down in top shape or the fighting weight. Boxer weigh-ins are scheduled one day before the actual fight. Fighters must stand barefoot and gloveless on the weighing scales. A fighter who will weigh over the standard weight limit may take off his clothes to make the weight. This, however, could only be done if the excess weight is minimal. Boxers who weigh far too excessively from the standard weight limit will be disqualified for the fight. Aside from the cancellation of the bout, the overweight boxer will be fined. In some cases, a fight may continue but not as a professional bout but as a non-title match.

The common trend in professional boxing is for boxers to transcend professional boxing weight classes. Boxers may fight different bouts and various professional boxing weight classes. The only way to go is to move up professional boxing weight classes as the boxers age. It is considered a colossal achievement for boxers to become multiple champions at multiple professional boxing weight classes.

Among many popular topics for boxing fanatics are the merits of pugilists in various professional boxing weight classes. Whether these discussions hold water or not, it is a fact that the establishment of professional boxing weight classes plays a great contribution to the organization of this exciting sport.

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