Everything You Need to Know About Welterweight Fighting
Combat sports have always been a popular choice for athletes and fans alike. Across different sports, fighters are divided into different weight classes based on their weight. The welterweight division is one such category that has been around for a long time, but there is still confusion over what weight class it encompasses. In this article, we will break down the welterweight division from top to bottom, exploring everything from its history to present-day landscape, physical attributes of welterweights, and much more.
A Breakdown of the Welterweight Division
Welterweight is a weight class that exists across different combat sports, with varying weight limits. For instance, in boxing, welterweights are fighters who weigh between 140 and 147 pounds, while in MMA, the weight limit is between 156 and 170 pounds. Kickboxing has different weight limits for welterweight fighters depending on the organization.
Several notable fighters have competed in the welterweight division throughout history. In boxing, Manny Pacquiao, Floyd Mayweather Jr., Sugar Ray Leonard, and Roberto Duran are among the famous fighters who have held world titles in this division. In MMA, Georges St-Pierre, Matt Hughes, and Tyron Woodley are a few of the most well-known welterweights.
The History of Welterweight Fighting and its Evolution
Welterweight fighting has a rich history that traces back to the bare-knuckle era. At that time, there were no weight classes, and fighters of all sizes competed together. Boxing became regulated in the late 19th century, which gave rise to the creation of weight classes. The welterweight division was formally recognized in 1920, with a weight limit of 147 pounds.
Over the years, the welterweight division has undergone many changes, mostly because of rule changes and weight limit adjustments. For example, in 1980, the World Boxing Council increased the welterweight limit to 147 pounds. MMA and kickboxing also have different weight limits for welterweights compared to boxing.
Cutting Weight for Welterweight Athletes
Weight cutting is an essential aspect of combat sports, especially for welterweight athletes who want to compete at the highest levels. Dropping weight safely and effectively requires a lot of preparation and discipline. It is important to understand that weight cutting can be dangerous if not done correctly.
Specialists recommend that welterweight fighters should not cut more than 5-10% of their body weight in the final week before a fight. A well-planned weight cut should take two to four weeks, with a gradual decrease in calorie intake and exercise paired with proper hydration techniques. Athletes should always consult with professionals such as nutritionists to develop a proper weight-cutting plan.
Physical Attributes and Fighting Styles of Welterweights
Welterweights, like all fighters, come in different shapes and sizes. There is no defined height or reach for welterweight fighters, but they tend to be slightly taller than lightweight fighters on average. Welterweight fighters place more emphasis on speed, mobility, and quickness due to their smaller sizes. They are known for their agile footwork and quick combinations.
Welterweights are considered to have a balance of speed, power, and technique. They use their boxing skills to pick opponents apart. They use their size and mobility advantage to stay out of trouble and move around the ring or cage.
The Landscape of Welterweight Fighting
The welterweight division remains one of the most hotly contested weight classes in combat sports. In boxing, the World Boxing Organization recently recognized Terence Crawford as the top welterweight fighter. In MMA, the welterweight division has seen a new king, Kamaru Usman, who won the championship in March 2019. There is currently no clear-cut favorite in kickboxing.
There are several top welterweight fights to look out for in 2021. In boxing, Terence Crawford vs. Errol Spence Jr. might be one of the biggest fights of the year. In MMA, a rematch between Kamaru Usman and Jorge Masvidal is on the horizon. Kickboxing welterweight fights are not yet scheduled but await fighters such as Cedric Doumbe or Murthel Groenhart.
The Future of the Welterweight Division
The welterweight division will always have new fighters emerging and old champs wanting their belts back, but new regulations are shifting the landscape slightly. In MMA, for example, the UFC has recently signed a deal with VADA (Voluntary Anti-Doping Authority), so fighters will be subjected to random drug testing year-round, which impacts weight cutting and fighter preparation routines. Some will also argue that the UFC’s skill-based approach to matchmaking could result in fewer fight opportunities for new fighters, prolonging contenders’ wait times.
In 2021, boxing will see a significant shift with the ‘Fight Circus’ following the Tyson vs. Jones Jr. event: celebrities fighting in the ring. However, we believe that these fights are not and should never be recognized as professional fights. The outcome and the way they end is not grounded in any professional rule sets, and the entertainment factor usually outweighs the education factor. We see no impact of these fights on the welterweight fighting category; no fighter’s road to the top should contain a stop in ‘Fight Circus.’
Conclusion
The welterweight division has an intriguing history and remains a favorite among combat sports enthusiasts. Understanding the nuances of this weight class could enhance your viewing experience of the sport. As a fan, it is crucial to support weight cutting regulations and appreciate the athleticism of the fighters. Ultimately, the welterweight division is an exciting category to follow, with many talented fighters vying for the top spot, and we anticipate more great battles to come.
