All articles tagged with #weight cutting
Khamzat Chimaev says his UFC 328 showing contained 'mistakes' but he isn’t dwelling on injuries or weight-cut issues, emphasizing that he’s focused on a quick return. He’s open to a Sean Strickland rematch (Strickland is currently rehabbing a shoulder) and plans to stay at 185 pounds, with Imavov as a potential future title challenger and RAF Moscow bouts on the horizon.
At UFC Sacramento, Gregory Rodrigues weighed 204.4 lb on fight night, about 2 lb more than Anthony Hernandez at 202.2 lb, underscoring hefty post-weigh-in gains; Rodrigues rose from 185 lb to 204.4 lb (19.4 lb, ~10%), Hernandez from 186 lb to 202.2 lb (16.2 lb, ~9%). Other notable gains included Reinier de Ridder to 221.8 lb (16.8 lb, ~8%), Roman Dolidze to 226.2 lb (20.2 lb, ~10%), and Marcio Barbosa’s biggest jump to 171 lb (25.5 lb, ~18%), vs. Ryan Kuse by nearly 20 lb.
Reinier de Ridder explains that brutal middleweight weight cuts affected his health and performance, contributing to recent losses, and his decision to move up to light heavyweight. He criticizes the current weight-cut system, saying it must change or risk serious harm, and he’s aiming for success at 205 with opportunities against top contenders after facing Roman Dolidze.
Khamzat Chimaev reportedly started fight camp nearly 50 pounds over the middleweight limit and struggled to make 185 for UFC 328 vs. Sean Strickland, with former champion TJ Dillashaw calling the weight-cutting method a “fraud” that nearly killed him, including claims of vomiting green bile and having a half-thyroid. Dillashaw’s remarks suggest the process was dangerously flawed, even as Chimaev performed competitively; post-fight discussion included potential moves to a lighter class or a rematch.
CSAC released fight-night weights for MVP MMA to monitor extreme cuts: Ronda Rousey at 142 lb official (143 lb fight night) and Gina Carano at 152 lb (up from 141.4 lb, a 10.6-lb gain). The card featured notable jumps including Nate Diaz to 184.6 lb and Mike Perry to 181.4 lb; Francis Ngannou at 258.6 lb; and the biggest gain by Namo Fazil, who rose from 170.8 to 198 lb (27.2 lb, 16%).
UFC bantamweight Cameron Smotherman collapsed moments after weighing in at 135.5 lb for UFC 324 in Las Vegas, prompting medical evaluation and the cancellation of his bout with Ricky Turcios; he regained consciousness and was taken for further tests. The weigh-in also saw other fighters miss weight with fines, while the event is headlined by Paddy Pimblett vs. Justin Gaethje, highlighting ongoing scrutiny of weight-cutting in MMA.
Kelvin Gastelum's repeated weight-cutting issues have raised concerns about possible health problems, with his coach speculating he might have a serious eating disorder, though Gastelum has not publicly addressed any such issues. Despite multiple missed weights and penalties, Gastelum continues to struggle with making weight, prompting discussions about the responsibilities of fighters, coaches, and the UFC in managing weight cuts safely.
'The Cut' is a dark, intense boxing film featuring Orlando Bloom as a former fighter struggling with the dangerous weight-cutting process and personal demons, highlighting the brutal realities behind the sport's glamour. The film explores themes of trauma, obsession, and the toll of boxing on fighters' lives, culminating in a powerful and thought-provoking ending.
Former UFC heavyweight champion Josh Barnett criticizes the current state of MMA, arguing that the rule structure is gamed and needs to change. He advocates for longer rounds, allowing knees to the head of grounded opponents, and Pride-style total fight scoring. Barnett also calls for the elimination of weight-cutting, emphasizing the potential health benefits and reduced injuries. While his ideas may not be implemented soon, Barnett's suggestions aim to make the sport more well-rounded and true to its martial arts roots.
Liz Carmouche defeated DeAnna Bennett by submission in the fourth round of their Bellator 294 bout. Carmouche was motivated to finish Bennett not only because of her success in the fight but also because of her repeated failures to make weight. Carmouche criticized Bennett for being a "cheater" and lacking professionalism, and expressed her desire to "get her out of this sport."