Muay Thai Weight Classes: Ultimate Guide and FAQ

Understanding Muay Thai weight classes is an essential aspect of any fighter’s journey in the sport – especially if you are considering competing.

While I’ve never competed in a Muay Thai fight personally, I have been training Muay Thai for over 3 years, and many of my training partners have (It’s my favorite martial art next to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu).

Should you try to cut down those extra 7 pounds to the lower weight classes or stay at your current “walking-around” weight?

First off, different fight promotions use different weight classes. Which is why we’ve included a variety of different muay thai weight classes for several different promotions such as One Championship, WPMF, IKF, and World Thai Boxing Association.

It’s also likely that ameuter promotions may follow the ameuter weight classes below, but you should always check directly with the promotion.

Finally for amateur promotions, they may also use classifications of experience level using C Class, B Class, and N Class (with each class having its own set of rules and regulations).

In this blog post, we’ll explore all of these topics and more, giving you a comprehensive guide to everything you need to know about Muay Thai weight classes.

Wondering: Who Are the Best Muay Thai Fighters at These Weight Classes?

Muay Thai Weight Classses – At a Glance

Muay Thai weight classes will vary widely based on fight promotion. However, we’ve included Muay Thai weight classess from a variety of different promotions such as One Championship, WPMF, IKF, and World Thai Boxing Association.

All weight classes listed in this post, unless specifically mentioned, are for men’s muay thai weight classes.
Generally, you can expect atleast 3-10 lbs separating a weight class (depending on the promotion) with the lighter weight classes usually having less lbs between them.

Muay Thai Weight Classes

Male Divisions

Weight Class	Weight Limit (lbs)	Weight Limit (kg)
Mini Flyweight	over 100 up to 105	over 45.36 up to 47.63
Junior Flyweight	over 105 up to108	over 47.63 up to 48.99
Flyweight	over 108 up to 112	over 48.99 up to 50.81
Junior Bantamweight	over 112 up to 115	over 50.81 up to 52.17
Bantamweight	over 115 up to 118	over 52.17 up to 53.53
Junior Featherweight	over 118 up to 122	over 53.53 up to 55.34
Featherweight	over 122 up to 126	over 55.34 up to 57.16
Junior Lightweight	over 126 up to 130	over 57.16 up to 58.97
Lightweight	over 130 up to 135	over 58.97 up to 61.24
Junior Welterweight	over 135 up to 140	over 61.24 up to 63.51
Welterweight	over 140 up to 147	over 63.51 up to 66.68
Junior Middleweight	over 147 up to 156	over 66.68 up to 70.76
Middleweight	over 156 up to 160	over 70.76 up to 72.58
Junior Heavyweight	over 160 up to 175	over 72.58 up to 79.38
Heavyweight	over 175	over 79.38

The numbers above are common muay thai weight classes used in some popular muay thai events*

However, it’s important to note that often times fight promotions will have their own weight classes. Please see below for Muay Thai weight classes for One Championship, WPMF, IKF, and World Thai Boxing Association.

Like other competitive martial arts, the male weight classes in Muay Thai are divided into several categories based on the fighter’s weight. These weight classes are essential to ensure fair competition and protect the athletes’ safety. Male Muay Thai weight classes typically range from Mini Flyweight (112 lbs) up to Heavyweight (above 190 lbs).

Each male division has its unique characteristics, with lighter weight classes focusing more on speed and technical skills, while heavier weight classes emphasize power and strength.

Muay Thai History and Weight Classes

It wasn’t until the ~1920s when Muay Thai first introduced weight classes along with other restrictions adopted from Western boxing like time limits, and weight divisions.

The Origins and Evolution of Muay Thai

Debate on Muay Thai’s origins: Historians are divided on the exact origin of Muay Thai. Some believe it started during the Sukhothai era (1238-1438), while others argue it developed during the Krungsri Ayutthaya era (1350-1767). Regardless of its origins, Muay Thai has always been a brutal form of fighting.

Key Eras and Figures in Muay Thai History

King Naresuan era (1590-1605): King Naresuan the Great is considered the Father of Muay Thai. He trained his army in the art, and during his reign, Muay Thai became a rite of passage for young men.
King Narai era (1656-1688): During King Narai’s reign, Muay Thai continued to evolve, and the legend of Nai Khanom Tom, a famous Muay Thai fighter, emerged. His victory against ten Burmese fighters earned him his freedom and solidified Muay Thai’s reputation as a deadly martial art.
Nai Khanom Tom: Often referred to as the “Father of Muay Thai,” Nai Khanom Tom was a legendary fighter who became a respected teacher, passing on his knowledge and skills to future generations.

King Prachao Sua “Tiger King” era (1703-1709): King Prachao Sua was an avid fan of Muay Thai and helped popularize the sport. Under his reign, Muay Thai flourished and became a significant aspect of Thai culture.
The Ratanakosin era (1782-present): This era marked the beginning of the Golden Age of Muay Thai, with rules and regulations introduced to make the sport safer. Muay Thai was integrated into the military’s physical training program during the reign of Rama V (1868-1910).

Modern Muay Thai

20th-century popularity: Muay Thai gained popularity worldwide, with gyms and competitions appearing across the globe. The sport evolved to incorporate elements of Western boxing and became a popular discipline in mixed martial arts (MMA) competitions.
Significant changes: Modern Muay Thai has seen many changes, including the introduction of time limits and boxing-style matches with weight divisions, gloves, and rounds. The sport has also adapted as it spread to new countries, with fighters incorporating elements of other martial arts into their Muay Thai style.

Click Here: For More Info on Muay Thai History and How Modern Muay Thai Was Shaped

Female Divisions

Here is a table of women’s weight classes with weight range in pounds and kilograms, along with the current world champions and contenders:

Weight Class	Weight Range (lbs)	Weight Range (kg)
Strawweight	104 – 108.1	47.27 – 49.09
Atomweight	108.1 – 112	49.13 – 50.90
Flyweight	112.1 – 117	50.95 – 53.18
Bantamweight	117.1 – 122	53.22 – 55.45
Featherweight	122.1 – 127	55.50 – 57.72

while women’s weight classes also vary heavily depending on promotion here is the women’s weight classes for the IKF (International Kickboxing Federation)*

Like the male divisions, female Muay Thai weight classes are also divided into several categories based on the athlete’s weight. These divisions are crucial for ensuring fair competition and maintaining the safety of the athletes. Female weight classes in Muay Thai range from Atomweight (102 lbs) up to Heavyweight (above 175 lbs).

Professional Muay Thai Organizations and Their Weight Classes

Muay Thai is governed by various organizations, again, each with its own set of weight classes.

Some of the most prominent organizations include:

World Professional Muay Thai Federation (WPMF)

Weight Class	Weight Limit (lbs)	Weight Limit (kg)
Pinweight	103	46.72
Mini Flyweight	106	48.08
Light Flyweight	109	49.44
Flyweight	112	50.80
Super Flyweight	115	52.16
Bantamweight	118	53.52
Super Bantamweight	122	55.34
Featherweight	126	57.15
Super Featherweight	130	58.97
Lightweight	135	61.24
Super Lightweight	140	63.50
Welterweight	147	66.68
Super Welterweight	154	69.85
Middleweight	161	73.03
Super Middleweight	168	76.20
Cruiserweight	175	79.38
Super Cruiserweight	190	86.18
Heavyweight	210	95.25
Super Heavyweight	265	120.20

The WPMF is a significant organization that oversees professional Muay Thai competitions worldwide. It has 19 weight classes for males, ranging from 105 lbs to over 265 lbs, and 13 weight classes for females, starting at 102 lbs and going up to over 175 lbs. The WPMF is committed to promoting and developing Muay Thai around the world, organizing international events and championships.

International Kickboxing Federation (IKF)

Weight Class	Weight Limit (lbs)	Weight Limit (kg)
Mini Flyweight	105	47.62
Junior Flyweight	108	48.99
Flyweight	111	50.35
Junior Bantamweight	114	51.71
Bantamweight	118	53.52
Junior Featherweight	122	55.34
Featherweight	126	57.15
Junior Lightweight	130	58.97
Lightweight	135	61.24
Junior Welterweight	140	63.50
Welterweight	147	66.68
Junior Middleweight	154	69.85
Middleweight	161	73.03
Super Middleweight	168	>76.2
Light Heavyweight	175	79.38
Super Light Heavyweight	182	82.55
Cruiserweight	190	86.18
Heavyweight	210	95.3
Super Heavyweight	No weight limit	No weight limit

The IKF is another prominent organization that sanctions both kickboxing and Muay Thai events. The IKF recognizes 20 male weight classes, ranging from 112 lbs to over 210 lbs, and 14 female weight classes, starting at 110 lbs and going up to over 190 lbs. The IKF aims to maintain a high standard of competition and has strict rules and regulations for its events.

World Thai Boxing Association (Junior Amateur and Adult)

Weight Class	Weight Limit (lbs)	Weight Limit (kg)
Junior Pin Weight	47	21.36
Junior Atom Weight	52	23.64
Junior Straw Weight	57	25.91
Junior Fly Weight	62	28.18
Junior Bantam Weight	67	30.45
Junior Feather Weight	72	32.73
Junior Light Weight	77	35.00
Junior Welter	77	35.00
Junior Middle	87	39.55
Junior Cruiser	92	41.82
Junior Heavy	97	44.09
Girls/Boys Pin Weight	102	46.36
Girls/Boys Atom Weight	107	48.64
Girls/Boys Straw Weight	112	50.91
Girls/Boys Fly Weight	117	53.18
Girls/Boys Bantam Weight	122	55.45
Girls/Boys Feather Weight	127	57.73
Girls/Boys Light Weight	132	60.00
Girls/Boys Super Light Weight	137	62.27
Girls/Boys Light Welter	142	64.55
Girls/Boys Welter Weight	147	66.82
Girls/Boys Super Welter	153	69.55
Girls/Boys Light Middle	159	72.27
Girls/Boys Middle Weight	165	75.00
Girls/Boys Super Middle	172	78.18
Girls/Boys Light Heavy Weight	179	81.36
Girls/Boys Light Cruiser	186	84.55
Girls/Boys Cruiser Weight	195	88.64
Girls/Boys Heavy Weight	215	97.73
Girls/Boys Super Heavy	215	97.73
Pin Weight	102	46.36
Atom Weight	107	48.64
Straw Weight	112	50.91
Fly Weight	117	53.18
Bantam Weight	122	55.45
Feather Weight	127	57.73
Light Weight	132	60.00
Super Light Weight	137	62.27
Light Welter Weight	142	64.55
Welter Weight	147	66.82
Super Welter Weight	153	69.55

The World Thai Boxing Association (WTBA) is a global organization that focuses on the development and promotion of Muay Thai.

The WTBA recognizes both junior amateur and adult weight classes, with 11 divisions for junior amateurs and 18 divisions for adults. The WTBA’s mission is to provide a platform for fighters to showcase their skills while ensuring fair competition.

ONE Championship Muay Thai Weight Classes

Weight Class	Weight Limit (lbs)	Weight Limit (kg)
Atomweight	115	52.16
Strawweight	125	56.70
Flyweight	135	61.24
Bantamweight	145	65.77
Featherweight	155	70.31
Lightweight	170	77.11
Welterweight	185	83.91
Middleweight	205	92.99
Light Heavyweight	225	102.06
Heavyweight	265	120.20

ONE Championship is a leading martial arts organization based in Asia that is soon spreading to the US and features various disciplines, including Muay Thai.

ONE Championship has ten weight classes for both male and female fighters, ranging from Strawweight (up to 125 lbs) to Heavyweight (above 225 lbs). ONE Championship has become a major platform for Muay Thai fighters to compete on the international stage, attracting top talent from around the world.

Link: Wondering who the current belt holders are for ONE FC in Muay Thai and Kickboxing? – Click Here

Why Are One FC Muay Thai Weight Classes Different than Other Organizations?

ONE Championship has devised a unique approach to Muay Thai weight classes compared to other organizations like Bellator, UFC, and PFL.

Distinctively, ONE Championship features an Atomweight division, which aligns with the UFC’s Strawweight division and imposes a weight limit of 115 lbs.

Additionally, ONE Championship categorizes its weight classes somewhat differently from other major promotions.

For instance, the Lightweight division in UFC caps at 155 lbs, while ONE Championship’s Lightweight division has a 170 lbs limit, mirroring the Welterweight division in UFC.

The disparity in categorization stems from ONE Championship’s prohibition on weight cutting through dehydration.

In its place, the organization has introduced an innovative system that guarantees athletes remain hydrated, fit, and healthy before their fights. This weight management system is designed to dissuade fighters from resorting to extreme measures to make weight, which could jeopardize their health.

ONE Championship’s Hydration & Weigh-In System

ONE Championship has implemented a unique hydration and weigh-in system to promote fighter safety and discourage unhealthy weight cutting practices.

How Does ONE’s Hydration & Weigh-In System Work?

Under the ONE Championship system, fighters must pass multiple weigh-ins and hydration tests during fight week. The hydration tests measure a fighter’s urine specific gravity to ensure they are adequately hydrated before competing.

Fighters must make weight and pass the hydration tests on consecutive days before the event.

Advantages and Disadvantages of the System

The primary advantage of the ONE Championship hydration and weigh-in system is that it promotes fighter safety by discouraging extreme weight cutting practices.

The system encourages fighters to compete at their natural weight, reducing the risk of dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and other weight cutting-related health issues.

The disadvantages of the system are that it can be logistically challenging and may require fighters to adjust their weight management strategies.

Some fighters may have difficulty maintaining their weight and hydration levels throughout the fight week, potentially impacting their performance.

Rajademnern Stadium Muay Thai Weight Classes

Weight Class	Limit (Pounds)	Limit (Kgs)
Mini Flyweight	105	47.6
Light Flyweight	108	48.9
Flyweight	112	50.8
Super Flyweight	115	52.1
Bantamweight	118	53.5
Super Bantamweight	122	55.3
Featherweight	126	57.1
Super Featherweight	130	58.9
Lightweight	135	61.2
Super Lightweight	140	63.5
Welterweight	147	66.7
Junior Middleweight	154	69.8
Middleweight	160	72.5

Rajadamnern Stadium is one of the most prestigious Muay Thai stadiums in Thailand, holding numerous events throughout the year.

Rajadamnern Stadium recognizes 13 male weight classes, and 12 female weight classes.

The stadium regularly hosts elite fighters, and winning a title at Rajadamnern Stadium is considered a significant achievement in a fighter’s career.

Lumpinee Stadium Muay Thai Weight Classes

Weight Class	Limit (Pounds)	Limit (Kgs)
Mini Flyweight	105	47.6
Junior Flyweight	108	48.9
Flyweight	112	50.8
Junior Bantamweight	115	52.1
Bantamweight	118	53.5
Junior Featherweight	122	55.3
Featherweight	126	57.1
Junior Lightweight	130	58.9
Lightweight	135	61.2
Junior Welterweight	140	63.5
Welterweight	147	66.7
Junior Middleweight	156	72.5
Middleweight	160	72.5
Junior Heavyweight	175	79.3
Heavyweight	over 175	over 79.3

Lumpinee Stadium is another legendary Muay Thai stadium in Thailand, known for hosting high-level bouts featuring the best fighters in the world.

Winning a Lumpinee Stadium title is a dream for many Muay Thai fighters and is considered a massive mark of excellence in the sport.

Muay Thai Weight Classes in Different Regions

Like other weight classes, weight classes in Muay Thai may vary depending on the region and the organization overseeing the competitions. This is why we’ve listed weight classes both in lbs and kg.

Here are some examples of weight classes used in different regions and organizations:

Muay Thai Weight Classes in kilograms (kg)

In many countries, especially in Europe and Asia, Muay Thai weight classes are defined in kilograms. These weight classes follow a similar structure to those in pounds but are adjusted to fit the metric system.

For example, the Mini Flyweight division in pounds (105 lbs) would be equivalent to the Mini Flyweight division in kilograms (47.6 kg).

For this reason, throughout this post, we have provided weight classes for muay thai from many organiztaions in both lbs and kg.

Muay Thai Weight Classes in the USA

Alternatively, in the United States, Muay Thai weight classes are often based on the International Kickboxing Federation (IKF) or World Thai Boxing Association (WTBA) guidelines and given in pounds (lbs).

These organizations also provide specific weight classes for both amateur and professional fighters in the country.

WBC Muay Thai Weight Classes

The World Boxing Council (WBC) is a global boxing organization that also recognizes Muay Thai as a separate discipline. The WBC Muay Thai weight classes follow the same structure as traditional boxing weight classes, with 17 divisions ranging from Mini Flyweight (105 lbs) to Heavyweight (above 200 lbs).

Muay Thai Weight Classes for Females

Female Muay Thai weight classes typically follow the same structure as male divisions, but with slightly different weight limits. Organizations such as the WPMF and IKF have specific weight classes for female fighters, ensuring fair competition and athlete safety.

Amateur Muay Thai Weight Classes

Weight Class	Limit (kg)	Limit (lbs)
Pinweight	42.00-45.00	92.59-99.21
Lightfly	45.01-48.00	99.23-105.82
Flyweight	48.01-50.00	105.84-110.23
Super Flyweight	50.01-52.00	110.25-114.64
Bantamweight	52.01-54.00	114.66-119.05
Super Bantamweight	54.01-56.00	119.07-123.46
Featherweight	56.01-58.00	123.48-127.87
Lightweight	58.01-61.00	127.89-134.48
Super Lightweight	61.01-63.50	134.50-139.99
Welterweight	63.51-67.00	140.01-147.71
Super Welterweight	67.01-69.50	147.73-153.21
Middleweight	69.51-72.50	153.23-159.83
Super Middleweight	72.51-76.00	159.85-167.55
Light Heavyweight	76.01-79.50	167.57-175.26
Super Light Heavyweight	79.51-83.00	175.28-182.98
Cruiserweight	83.01-86.00	182.99-189.60
Super Cruiserweight	86.01-89.00	189.62-196.21
Heavyweight	89.01-95.00	196.23-209.44
Super Heavyweight	Over 95.01	Over 209.44

Amateur Muay Thai competitions may often follow the same weight class structure as professional events, but with more weight classes as well as additional age and experience restrictions.

Junior and youth divisions are typically also based on age and weight, while adult divisions may include experience-based classes such as Class C, B, and A.

Muay Thai Classifications and Experience Levels

In Muay Thai, fighters are often classified by their experience levels, commonly referred to as C, B, and N classes.

N Class, or Novice Class, is for fighters new to competition but may have some experience in training. Fighters are still developing their skills and in early stages of their competitive careers.
C Class is a beginner-level in Muay Thai with limited experience and fights have more safety equipment and shorter rounds

B Class is an intermediate-level in Muay Thai with more experience than C Class. Additionally, fighters have better understanding of techniques and fewer safety restrictions than C Class

What Is C Class In Muay Thai?

C Class refers to beginner-level fighters in Muay Thai. These fighters have limited experience and are often just starting their competitive journey. C Class fights typically have more safety equipment, such as shin guards and headgear, and shorter rounds.

What Is B Class In Muay Thai?

B Class fighters are intermediate-level competitors with more experience than C Class fighters. They have a better understanding of Muay Thai techniques and strategy, and their bouts have fewer safety restrictions than C Class fights.

What Is N Class In Muay Thai?

N Class, or Novice Class, refers to fighters who are new to competition but may have some experience in training. These fighters are typically in the early stages of their competitive careers and are still developing their skills.

Weight Classes and Fighter Attributes

Understanding the relationship between weight classes and fighter attributes can help you determine the best division for your skillset and physical characteristics.

Muay Thai Weight Classes and Average Height

Each weight class has an average height range associated with it, which can provide a general idea of the size of fighters in that division.

For example, Mini Flyweight fighters typically have a shorter stature, while Heavyweight fighters are generally taller.

Muay Thai Weight Classes and Height

Knowing the average height of fighters in each weight class can be helpful in determining the optimal weight class for an individual.

By comparing your height to the average height of fighters in each division, you can find the weight class that best suits your physical attributes.

The best weight class for a fighter depends on several factors, including

height

reach
natural weight
fighting style

To determine the best weight class, a fighter should consider their physical attributes and performance in training and competition. Consulting with a coach or experienced fighter can also provide valuable insight into the ideal weight class for an individual.

What Size Gloves Do You Use for Different Weight Classes?

The size of gloves used in Muay Thai depends on the weight class and the organization’s rules.

Generally, fighters in lighter weight classes use 8-ounce or 10-ounce gloves,

Heavier weight classes use 12-ounce or 14-ounce gloves.

Some organizations, like the World Boxing Council (WBC), specify glove sizes for each weight class in their rulebook. It’s essential to check the competition guidelines before selecting your gloves.

Cutting Weight in Muay Thai

Cutting weight is a common practice in Muay Thai and many other combat sports.

Understanding the reasons and methods behind cutting weight can help fighters make informed decisions about their weight management strategies.

Why Do Muay Thai Fighters Cut Weight?

Muay Thai fighters cut weight to gain a competitive advantage in their weight class.

By cutting weight, a fighter can compete against opponents who may be smaller or weaker, giving them an edge in the ring.

Unfortunately, almost everyone who competes in Muay Thai will be cutting weight as well. So basically, you will be at a disadvantag if you don’t cut weight.

Additionally, some fighters believe that cutting weight helps them feel more agile and energetic during a fight.

How Much Weight Do Muay Thai Fighters Cut?

The amount of weight a Muay Thai fighter cuts varies depending on their natural weight, the weight class they compete in, and their individual weight-cutting strategy. Some fighters may cut only a few pounds, while others may cut 10-15% of their body weight or more. It’s crucial for fighters to find a weight-cutting strategy that works for them without compromising their health or performance.

The Process of Cutting Weight

Cutting weight typically involves a combination of diet, exercise, and dehydration techniques. Fighters often start by reducing their calorie intake and increasing their exercise routine to lose body fat. In the final days before a fight, they may use dehydration techniques, such as sweating in a sauna, to shed additional water weight. After weighing in, fighters typically rehydrate and replenish their energy stores to prepare for the fight.

Risks and Benefits of Cutting Weight

While cutting weight can provide a competitive advantage, it also carries significant risks. Rapid weight loss can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and diminished physical and mental performance. In extreme cases, weight cutting can cause organ damage or even death. Fighters should carefully consider the risks and benefits of cutting weight and consult with medical professionals to ensure they are doing so safely.

Should Amateurs Cut Weight for a Fight?

Amateur fighters may choose to cut weight for a fight, but it’s essential to weigh the potential benefits against the risks. Since amateur fights are typically shorter and have fewer stakes, the advantages of cutting weight may be less significant than in professional bouts. Amateur fighters should prioritize learning and developing their skills rather than focusing on weight cutting.

Preparing for a Muay Thai Fight or Competition

Proper preparation is essential for success in Muay Thai, whether you’re competing in your first fight or an experienced veteran.

When Should You Do your First Muay Thai Fight?

The right time to have your first Muay Thai fight depends on several factors, including your skill level, physical fitness, and mental readiness.

Generally, it’s a good idea to have at least six months to a year of consistent training before considering competing.

Your coach or teammates can provide guidance on when you’re ready to step into the ring.

How to Prepare for your First Muay Thai Fight

Preparing for your first Muay Thai fight involves a combination of physical training, mental preparation, and logistical planning. Here are some steps to help you get ready for your first fight:

Develop a training plan: Work with your coach to create a training plan that focuses on improving your technique, strength, conditioning, and endurance. Your plan should include a mix of pad work, sparring, running, and strength training exercises.
Practice visualization and mental preparation: Visualizing yourself succeeding in the ring can help improve your confidence and performance. Practice relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing and meditation, to manage pre-fight anxiety and stress.
Determine your weight class and manage your weight: Consult with your coach to determine the best weight class for you and develop a weight management plan if necessary. Make sure you’re maintaining a healthy diet and staying hydrated during your training camp.

Develop a game plan: Work with your coach to develop a strategy for your fight based on your strengths and weaknesses and your opponent’s style. Regularly review and refine your game plan during your training camp.
Prepare your gear: Ensure you have all the necessary gear for your fight, including gloves, mouthguard, shorts, groin guard, and hand wraps. Check the competition rules to ensure your equipment meets the requirements.
Get familiar with the rules and regulations: Review the rules and regulations of the event you’ll be competing in, including scoring criteria, legal techniques, and safety requirements.

Rest and recover: In the days leading up to your fight, ensure you’re getting enough rest and recovery time to allow your body to heal and perform at its best.

Muay Thai Weight Classes in Comparison to Other Combat Sports

Muay Thai weight classes differ from those in other combat sports, such as UFC & MMA, GLORY Kickboxing, and Olympic Wrestling. Comparing these weight classes can provide insight into the similarities and differences between these sports.

UFC & MMA Weight Classes

UFC and MMA weight classes generally have broader ranges than Muay Thai, with more significant gaps between divisions. The UFC, for example, has eight male weight classes and four female weight classes. The weight classes in UFC are:

Strawweight: 115 lbs (52.2 kg)
Flyweight: 125 lbs (56.7 kg)
Bantamweight: 135 lbs (61.2 kg)

Featherweight: 145 lbs (65.8 kg)
Lightweight: 155 lbs (70.3 kg)
Welterweight: 170 lbs (77.1 kg)

Middleweight: 185 lbs (83.9 kg)
Light Heavyweight: 205 lbs (93 kg)
Heavyweight: 265 lbs (120.2 kg)

For female fighters in the UFC, there are four weight classes:
Strawweight: 115 lbs (52.2 kg)
Flyweight: 125 lbs (56.7 kg)

Bantamweight: 135 lbs (61.2 kg)
Featherweight: 145 lbs (65.8 kg)

GLORY Kickboxing Weight Classes

GLORY Kickboxing features multiple weight classes for both male and female fighters. The weight classes are similar to those in Muay Thai but have some differences in the weight ranges:

Featherweight: 143 lbs (65 kg)
Lightweight: 154 lbs (70 kg)
Welterweight: 170 lbs (77 kg)

Middleweight: 187 lbs (85 kg)
Light Heavyweight: 209 lbs (95 kg)
Heavyweight: 264 lbs (120 kg)

Olympic Wrestling Weight Classes

Olympic wrestling has different weight classes for both freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestling. The weight classes for male freestyle wrestling are:

57 kg (125.7 lbs)
65 kg (143.3 lbs)

74 kg (163.1 lbs)
86 kg (189.6 lbs)
97 kg (213.8 lbs)

125 kg (275.6 lbs)

For female freestyle wrestling, the weight classes are:

50 kg (110.2 lbs)

53 kg (116.8 lbs)
57 kg (125.7 lbs)
62 kg (136.7 lbs)

68 kg (149.9 lbs)
76 kg (167.6 lbs)

Rules and Regulations in Muay Thai

Understanding the rules and regulations of Muay Thai is essential for fighters and fans alike. Knowing how to win a Muay Thai fight, the rules for a Muay Thai fight, and the global Muay Thai rule set will help you appreciate the sport more.

How Do You Win a Muay Thai Fight?

A Muay Thai fight can be won in several ways:

Knockout (KO): When a fighter is knocked down and unable to continue within the referee’s count.
Technical Knockout (TKO): When the referee stops the fight due to a fighter’s inability to continue or protect themselves.

Decision: If the fight goes the full distance, the winner is determined by the judges’ scorecards. The fighter with the higher score wins.
Draw: If the judges’ scores are equal, the fight is declared a draw.

What Are the Rules for a Muay Thai Fight?

Muay Thai fights are governed by a set of rules that dictate legal techniques, safety requirements, and scoring criteria. Some of the primary rules include:

Legal techniques: Fighters can use punches, kicks, knees, and elbows to strike their opponents. Clinching and sweeping are also allowed.
Illegal techniques: Headbutts, groin strikes, strikes to the back of the head, and strikes to a downed opponent are not allowed.
Scoring: Judges score each round based on effective striking, aggression, and ring control. Points are awarded for clean, powerful strikes that visibly affect the opponent.

Safety equipment: Fighters must wear gloves, a mouthguard, and a groin guard. Some organizations may also require fighters to wear shin guards and headgear, especially in amateur bouts.

Global Muay Thai Rule Set

The global Muay Thai rule set aims to standardize the sport across different organizations

and countries. This rule set includes the following key aspects:

Rounds: Professional Muay Thai bouts typically consist of five 3-minute rounds with 2-minute breaks in between. Amateur fights often have three 2-minute rounds with 1-minute breaks.
Weight classes: Global rules usually adhere to the weight classes outlined earlier in this article.
Judging criteria: Judges evaluate fighters based on effective striking, aggression, and ring control. Emphasis is placed on the impact of the strikes rather than their quantity.

Fouls: Fighters are penalized for fouls such as headbutts, groin strikes, and strikes to the back of the head. Repeated fouls may result in point deductions or disqualification.
Medical checks: Fighters must undergo pre-fight medical examinations to ensure their fitness to compete.

Age and Muay Thai

Age plays a significant role in the development of Muay Thai fighters, both in terms of starting the sport and determining the appropriate time to retire.

What Is a Good Age to Start Muay Thai?

There is no specific age requirement for starting Muay Thai, as individuals can begin training at any age. However, it is generally recommended for children to start around the age of 8 to 10. This allows them to develop a strong foundation in the sport while they are still young and adaptable.

What Age Is Too Late for Muay Thai?

While there is no definitive age limit for starting Muay Thai, it becomes increasingly challenging to develop the necessary skills and compete at a high level as one gets older.

Nonetheless, individuals can still enjoy the physical and mental benefits of Muay Thai training at any age even if they start later in life.

Current Muay Thai Champions and Belt Holders

It is essential to recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of the current Muay Thai champions and belt holders in various organizations.

IBF Muay Thai World Champions

Here is a table summarizing the current IBF Muay Thai World Champions:

Weight Class	Champion	Date Winning	Date Losing	Days
Middleweight (160lbs / 72.5kg)	Belgium/Morocco Youssef Boughanem	April 28, 2018	Current	1814
Welterweight (147lbs / 66.7kg)	Thailand Pinklao Bangkoknoivillage	December 20, 2017	Current	1943
Junior welterweight	Thailand Darky Lukmakamwan	February 13, 2018	Current	1888
Lightweight (135lbs/ 61.2kg)	Thailand Saeksan Or. Kwanmuang	December 21, 2017	Current	1942
Junior lightweight (130lbs /58.9kg)	Thailand Phet Utong Or. Kwanmuang	December 21, 2017	Current	1942
Mini flyweight (105lbs /47.6kg)	Japan Nadaka Eiwasportsgym (Nadaka Yoshinari)	September 26, 2018	Current	1663

The International Boxing Federation (IBF) recognizes Muay Thai world champions across several weight classes. These champions represent the pinnacle of their respective divisions and serve as role models for aspiring fighters.

ONE Championship Muay Thai Belt Holders

Division	Champion	Since	Defenses
Lightweight 170 lb (77.1 kg)	Suriname Regian Eersel	October 22, 2022	0
Featherweight 155 lb (70.3 kg)	Thailand Tawanchai P.K. Saenchai	September 29, 2022	1
Bantamweight 145 lb (65.8 kg)	Thailand Nong-O Gaiyanghadao	February 16, 2019	7
Flyweight 135 lb (61.2 kg)	Thailand Rodtang Jitmuangnon	August 2, 2019	4
Strawweight 125 lb (56.7 kg)	Italy Joseph Lasiri	May 20, 2022	0

ONE Championship is a prominent organization in the world of combat sports, hosting events featuring Muay Thai, MMA, and kickboxing. They have established their own weight classes and recognize champions in each division.

Frequently Asked Questions about Muay Thai Weight Classes

What Is Open Weight Class in Muay Thai?

An open weight class in Muay Thai is a weight class where there are no weight restrictions.

This means that fighters of any weight can compete against each other, and there are no weight restrictions. Open weight classes are not as common in Muay Thai as they are in other combat sports such as mixed martial arts, but they do exist in some promotions and events.

Fighters in open weight classes often have to adjust their fighting style and strategy to account for the size and strength difference between themselves and their opponents.

What Does Pound for Pound Mean?

The term “pound for pound” refers to a comparison of fighters across different weight classes.

It is a way to rank fighters based on their skills, accomplishments, and overall performance, regardless of their size. A pound-for-pound ranking aims to determine the best fighters in the sport, irrespective of their weight class.

Thanks for reading, I hope this post has provided some insight into a variety of different muay thai weight classes – Zack