In Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) competitions, bjj weight classes play a crucial role in creating fair and exciting matches. Various organizations, such as the International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation (IBJJF), Abu Dhabi Combat Club (ADCC), and Grappling Industries, have their own set of rules and weight divisions. Understanding these weight classes is essential for competitors to find their appropriate category and compete on an even playing field.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the different weight classes in BJJ tournaments across various rulesets. We’ll cover the IBJJF weight classes, ADCC weight classes, Grappling Industries weight classes, NAGA weight classes, and more. Additionally, we’ll discuss how BJJ weigh-ins work, what happens if you don’t make weight, and provide insights into cutting weight for BJJ competitions. So let’s dive in and explore the world of BJJ weight classes!
IBJJF Weight Classes
The IBJJF is one of the most prominent BJJ tournament organizers, hosting numerous events each year. Their weight classes are widely recognized and used by many other organizations. Here are the regular weight divisions for male adults and juveniles in both gi and no-gi competitions:
Male Adult IBJJF Weight Classes
Weight Division | Gi Weight | No-Gi Weight |
Rooster | 127 lbs (57.5 kg) | 122.6 lbs (55.5 kg) |
Light Feather | 141.6 lbs (64 kg) | 136 lbs (61.5 kg) |
Feather | 154.6 lbs (70 kg) | 149 lbs (67.5 kg) |
Light | 168 lbs (76 kg) | 162.6 lbs (73.5 kg) |
Middle | 181.6 lbs (82.3 kg) | 175.6 lbs (79.5 kg) |
Middle Heavy | 195 lbs (88.3 kg) | 188.6 lbs (85.5 kg) |
Heavy | 208 lbs (94.3 kg) | 202 lbs (91.5 kg) |
Super Heavy | 222 lbs (100.5 kg) | 215 lbs (97.5 kg) |
Ultra Heavy | No maximum | No maximum |
Please note that the weights mentioned above represent the maximum weight allowed for each weight division.
Male Juvenile IBJJF Weight Classes
Weight Class | Gi Weight | No-Gi Weight |
Rooster | 118 lbs (53.5 kg) | 114 lbs (51.5 kg) |
Light Feather | 129 lbs (58.5 kg) | 125 lbs (56.5 kg) |
Feather | 141.6 lbs (64 kg) | 136 lbs (61.5 kg) |
Light | 152.6 lbs (69 kg) | 147 lbs (66.5 kg) |
Middle | 163.6 lbs (74 kg) | 158 lbs (71.5 kg) |
Middle Heavy | 175 lbs (79.3 kg) | 169 lbs (76.5 kg) |
Heavy | 186 lbs (84.3 kg) | 180 lbs (81.5 kg) |
Super Heavy | 197 lbs (89.3 kg) | 191 lbs (86.5 kg) |
Ultra Heavy | No maximum | No maximum |
The weight classes for female adults and juvenile competitors in both gi and no-gi divisions are as follows:
Female Adult IBJJF Weight Classes
Weight Class | Gi Weight | No-Gi Weight |
Rooster | 107 lbs (48.5 kg) | 103 lbs (46.5 kg) |
Light Feather | 118 lbs (53.5 kg) | 114 lbs (51.5 kg) |
Feather | 129 lbs (58.5 kg) | 125 lbs (56.5 kg) |
Light | 141.6 lbs (64 kg) | 136 lbs (61.5 kg) |
Middle | 152.6 lbs (69 kg) | 147 lbs (66.5 kg) |
Middle Heavy | 163.6 lbs (74 kg) | 158 lbs (71.5 kg) |
Heavy | 175 lbs (79.3 kg) | 169 lbs (76.5 kg) |
Super Heavy | No maximum | No maximum |
Female Juvenile IBJJF Weight Classes
Weight Class | Gi Weight | No-Gi Weight |
Rooster | 98 lbs (44.3 kg) | 94 lbs (42.5 kg) |
Light Feather | 106.6 lbs (48.3 kg) | 103 lbs (46.5 kg) |
Feather | 116 lbs (52.5 kg) | 111.6 lbs (50.5 kg) |
Light | 125 lbs (56.5 kg) | 120.6 lbs (54.5 kg) |
Middle | 133.6 lbs (60.5 kg) | 129 lbs (58.5 kg) |
Middle Heavy | 143.6 lbs (65 kg) | 138 lbs (62.5 kg) |
Heavy | 152 lbs (69 kg) | 147 lbs (66.5 kg) |
Super Heavy | No maximum | No maximum |
It’s important to note that IBJJF weight classes are generally consistent across different locations and competitions.
How to Access Specific Weight Classes for Your Competition
To find the weight classes for your specific IBJJF event, visit the official IBJJF website and navigate to the events page. Click on the event you are interested in and look for the “weight chart” button on the right side. This will provide you with all the current and planned weight divisions for that event.
ADCC Weight Classes
The Abu Dhabi Combat Club (ADCC) organizes no-gi submission grappling tournaments worldwide, including the prestigious ADCC World Championships. Here are the weight classes for ADCC competitions:
ADCC World Championships and Qualifiers Weight Classes
Male
-65.9 kg (145.2 lbs)
-76.9 kg (169.5 lbs)
-87.9 kg (193.7 lbs)
-98.9 kg (218 lbs)
+99 kg (220.5 lbs)
Absolute
Female
-60 kg (132.2 lbs)
+60 kg (132.2 lbs)
ADCC Teams Weight Classes
Male | Female |
-83 kg | -60 kg |
+83 kg | +60 kg |
ADCC Weight Classes for Other Tournaments
Males (18+ yrs old)
-60 kg
-65 kg
-70 kg
-76 kg
-83 kg
-91 kg
-100 kg
+100 kg
Males (15-18 yrs old)
-45 kg
-50 kg
-55 kg
-60 kg
-65 kg
-70 kg
-75 kg
-80 kg
+80 kg
Females (18+ yrs old)
-49 kg
-55 kg
-62 kg
-70 kg
-95 kg
Females (15-18 yrs old)
-36 kg
-40 kg
-45 kg
-50 kg
-55 kg
-60 kg
+60 kg
Please note that there are additional weight classes for competitors under the age of 15. Check the ADCC website for complete details on age-specific weight divisions.
Grappling Industries Weight Classes
Grappling Industries is an international BJJ competition that utilizes a round-robin system, ensuring competitors have the opportunity to compete against multiple opponents. Here are the weight classes for Grappling Industries tournaments:
Men (18+)
-135 lbs (-61 kg)
-145 lbs (-66 kg)
-155 lbs (-70 kg)
-170 lbs (-77 kg)
-185 lbs (-84 kg)
-200 lbs (-91 kg)
-215 lbs (-97.5 kg)
-230 lbs (-104 kg)
Over 230 lbs (over 104 kg)
Women (18+)
-105 lbs (-48 kg)
-115 lbs (-52 kg)
-125 lbs (-57 kg)
-135 lbs (-61 kg)
-145 lbs (-66 kg)
-155 lbs (-70 kg)
-170 lbs (-77 kg)
-185 lbs (-84 kg)
-200 lbs (-91 kg)
Over 200 lbs (over 91 kg)
Kids
-65 lbs (-29 kg)
-75 lbs (-34 kg)
-85 lbs (-39 kg)
-95 lbs (-43 kg)
-105 lbs (-48 kg)
-115 lbs (-52 kg)
-125 lbs (-57 kg)
-135 lbs (-61 kg)
-145 lbs (-66 kg)
-155 lbs (-70 kg)
-170 lbs (-77 kg)
-185 lbs (-84 kg)
-210 lbs (-95 kg)
+210 lbs (+95 kg)
NAGA Weight Classes
The North American Grappling Association (NAGA) is known for hosting gi and no-gi competitions in the USA and Europe. Here are the weight classes for NAGA tournaments:
Men – Adults
Weight Class | Women – Adults | Teen (14-17 years old) |
129.9 lbs and under | 99.9 lbs and under | 99.9 lbs and under |
130 lbs to 139.9 lbs | 100 lbs to 109.9 lbs | 100 to 114.9 lbs |
140 lbs to 149.9 lbs | 110 lbs to 119.9 lbs | 115 to 129.9 lbs |
150 lbs to 159.9 lbs | 120 lbs to 129.9 lbs | 130 to 144.9 lbs |
160 lbs to 169.9 lbs | 130 lbs to 139.9 lbs | 145 to 159.9 lbs |
170 lbs to 179.9 lbs | 140 lbs to 149.9 lbs | 160 to 179.9 lbs |
180 lbs to 189.9 lbs | 150 lbs to 159.9 lbs | 180 to 199.9 lbs |
190 lbs to 199.9 lbs | 160 lbs to 169.9 lbs | 200 lbs and over |
200 lbs to 224.9 lbs | 170 lbs to 179.9 lbs | |
225 lbs to 249.9 lbs | 180 lbs to 189.9 lbs | |
250 lbs and over | 190 to 199.9 lbs | |
200 lbs and above |
Children (13 years and under)
Weight Class |
39.9 lbs and under |
40 to 49.9 lbs |
50 to 59.9 lbs |
60 to 69.9 lbs |
70 to 79.9 lbs |
80 to 89.9 lbs |
90 to 99.9 lbs |
100 to 109.9 lbs |
110 to 124.9 lbs |
125 to 139.9 lbs |
140 to 154.9 lbss |
155 to 169.9 lbs |
170 lbs and above |
BJJ Weigh-Ins: How They Work
Weigh-ins are an integral part of BJJ competitions and usually take place on the same day as the event. Competitors are required to select their weight class during the registration process and pay the entry fee. Here’s a general overview of how weigh-ins typically work:
- Marshalling Area: Competitors are called up to the marshalling area based on their age, weight, and belt category.
- Weighing Process: Competitors step onto the official scales and are weighed in front of an official. Some tournaments require competitors to wear their gis during weigh-ins, while others do not.
- Uniform Check: The competitor’s uniform is checked to ensure it complies with the length and hygiene rules of the tournament.
The exact timing of the weigh-in process varies depending on the competition’s organization and the number of competitors in each bracket. Typically, competitors weigh in 15 to 30 minutes before their first match. Even if a competitor is the only one in their weight class and will win by default, they may still need to weigh in and pass the uniform test to be eligible for a medal.
What Happens if You Don't Make Weight?
Different organizations have their own rules regarding competitors who fail to make weight. In IBJJF tournaments, competitors who don’t make weight are immediately disqualified. Most competitions do not allow competitors to change weight classes on the day of the event if they miss their target weight.
However, some organizations, such as Grappling Industries, offer a 1-pound (0.45 kg) allowance and provide competitors with additional time to successfully make weight after the initial weigh-in. NAGA competitions are even more lenient, allowing competitors to weigh in multiple times before accepting their final weight. Even if a competitor misses their target weight, they can still compete in the weight class they fall into.
It’s crucial to review the rulebook of the organization overseeing the competition to understand the policies and procedures related to weigh-ins. Visit the respective websites for IBJJF, ADCC, Grappling Industries, and NAGA to access their rulebooks.
Cutting Weight for BJJ Competitions
Weight cutting involves intentional weight loss to compete in a lower weight class. While more common in combat sports like boxing and MMA, some BJJ competitors also engage in weight cutting. It’s essential to approach weight cutting safely and responsibly to avoid negative health effects and performance decline.
Reid Reale, a black belt and sports dietitian, recommends a long-term weight cutting strategy that focuses on gradual and sustainable weight loss. This approach involves maintaining a healthy diet, monitoring calorie intake, and incorporating regular exercise to achieve the desired weight class without drastic measures.
Conclusion
Understanding BJJ weight classes is crucial for competitors aiming to participate in tournaments across various organizations like IBJJF, ADCC, Grappling Industries, or NAGA. Each organization has its unique set of weight divisions and regulations. By familiarizing yourself with these classes, you ensure fair competition and find the right category for you. Remember, adherence to weigh-in requirements is vital. Failure to meet them may lead to disqualification or reassignment to another weight class. Always refer to official rulebooks and organization websites for accurate information. With a solid grasp of BJJ weight classes and compliance with regulations, you can compete confidently and enjoy the excitement of tournaments. Good luck on your BJJ journey!
FAQ's
1 . Does BJJ tournaments have weight classes?
Yes, most BJJ tournaments are organized with weight classes. This ensures fair competition by grouping participants based on their weight.
2 . What is middleweight BJJ?
Middleweight in BJJ refers to a weight class category where competitors typically weigh between 167.6 lbs (76 kg) and 181.5 lbs (82.3 kg). It’s one of the weight divisions in BJJ tournaments.
3 . What is rooster weight in BJJ?
Rooster weight is the lightest weight class in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu tournaments. Competitors in this division typically weigh up to 57.5 kg (127 lbs) for men and 53.5 kg (118 lbs) for women.
4 . What is the BJJ absolute division?
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