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Flyweight
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Flyweight
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Flyweight is a weight class in combat sports.

Boxing

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Flyweight is a class in boxing which includes fighters weighing up to and including 51 kg (112 lb) for a title fight.[1]

Professional boxing

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The flyweight division was the last of boxing's eight traditional weight classes to be established. Before 1909, anyone below featherweight was considered a bantamweight, regardless of how small the boxer. In 1911, the organization that eventually became the British Boxing Board of Control held a match that crowned Sid Smith as the first flyweight champion of the world. Jimmy Wilde, who reigned from 1916 to 1923, was the first fighter recognized both in Britain and the United States as a flyweight champion.[2]

Other notable flyweights include Victor Perez, Pancho Villa, Walter McGowan, Pascual Pérez, Pone Kingpetch, Salvatore Burruni, Fighting Harada, Masao Ohba, Chartchai Chionoi, Efren Torres, Erbito Salavarria, Miguel Canto, Dave McAuley, Charlie Magri, Gabriel Bernal, Santos Laciar, Sot Chitalada, Yong-Kang Kim, Yuri Arbachakov, Danny Romero, Mark "Too Sharp" Johnson, Manny Pacquiao, Jorge Arce, Vic Darchinyan, Nonito Donaire, Omar Andrés Narváez, Pongsaklek Wonjongkam, Amnat Ruenroeng, Román González, Donnie Nietes, Nicola Adams.

Current world champions

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Main article: List of world flyweight boxing champions
Sanctioning Body Reign Began Champion Record Defenses
WBA July 30, 2025 Ricardo Sandoval 27–2 (18 KO) 0
WBC July 30, 2025 Ricardo Sandoval 27–2 (18 KO) 0
IBF March 29, 2025 Masamichi Yabuki 18–4 (17 KO) 0
WBO July 20, 2024 Anthony Olascuaga 9–1 (6 KO) 2

Current The Ring world rankings

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As of August 8, 2025[3]

Keys:

 C  Current The Ring world champion
Rank Name Record Title(s)
C vacant
1 Ricardo Sandoval 27–2 (18 KO) WBC, WBA
2 Kenshiro Teraji 25–2 (16 KO)
3 Seigo Yuri Akui 21–3–1 (11 KO)
4 Masamichi Yabuki 18–4 (17 KO) IBF
5 Galal Yafai 9–0–0–1 (7 KO)
6 Ángel Ayala 18–1 (8 KO)
7 Felix Alvarado 42–4 (35 KO)
8 Anthony Olascuaga 9–1 (6 KO) WBO
9 Tobias Reyes 17–1–1 (16 KO)
10 Jukiya Iimura 9–1 (2 KO)

Longest reigning world flyweight champions

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Below is a list of longest reigning flyweight champions in boxing measured by the individual's longest reign. Career total time as champion (for multiple time champions) does not apply.

Name Title reign Title recognition Successful defenses Beaten opponents Fights
1. Omar Andres Narvaez 7 years, 10 months WBO 16 15 [4]
2. Jimmy Wilde 7 years, 4 months, 4 days World 3 3 [5]
3. Pongsaklek Wonjongkam 6 years, 4 months, 16 days WBC 17 16 [6]
4. Artem Dalakian 5 years, 10 months, 27 days WBA 5 5 [7]
3. Irene Pacheco 5 years, 8 months, 6 days IBF 6 6 [8]
6. Pascual Perez 5 years, 4 months, 20 days World 9 9 [9][10]
7. Yuri Arbachakov 5 years, 4 months, 19 days WBC 9 9 [11]
8. Jackie Paterson 4 years, 9 months, 4 days NBA 1 1 [12]
9. Miguel Canto 4 years, 2 months, 10 days WBC 14 11 [13]
10. Moruti Mthalane 4 years, 1 month, 23 days IBF 4 4 [14]
11. Sot Chitalada 3 years, 9 months, 16 days WBC 6 5 [15]

Amateur boxing

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Olympic Champions

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Men's
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Women's
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Pan American Champions

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Men's
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Kickboxing

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In kickboxing, a flyweight fighter generally weighs 53 kg (116 lb) or under. The International Kickboxing Federation (IKF) Flyweight division (professional and amateur) is 112.1 lb. – 117 lb. or 50.95 kg – 53.18 kg.

In ONE Championship, the flyweight division is up to 61.2 kg (135 lb).

Bare-knuckle boxing

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The limit for flyweight generally differs among promotions in bare knuckle boxing:

  • In Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship, the flyweight division has an upper limit of 125 lb (57 kg).
  • In BKB™, the flyweight division has an upper limit of 70 kg (154 lb).

Mixed martial arts

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The flyweight division in mixed martial arts – as defined by the Nevada State Athletic Commission combat sports doctrine[16] and by the Association of Boxing Commissions[17] – groups together all competitors 125 lb (57 kg) and below. It sits between Strawweight (106 lb-115 lb) and Bantamweight (126 lb-135lb).

The flyweight division in mixed martial arts refers to a number of different weight classes:

  • The UFC's flyweight division, which groups competitors within 116 to 125 lb (53 to 57 kg)
  • The Pancrase light flyweight division with an upper limit of 54 kg (119 lb)
  • The Shooto flyweight division with an upper limit of 114.6 lb (52 kg) [18]
  • The ONE Championship's flyweight division, with upper limit at 61.2 kg (134.9 lb)
  • The Road FC's flyweight division, with upper limit at 125 lb (57 kg)

Professional champions

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These tables are not always up to date. Last updated on March 23, 2025.

Men:

Organization Reign Began Champion Record Defenses
UFC July 8, 2023 Brazil Alexandre Pantoja 30-5 (8KO 12SUB) 4
Bellator MMA N/A Vacant N/A N/A
ONE Championship March 23, 2025 Japan Yuya Wakamatsu 19-6 0
Rizin FF N/A Vacant N/A N/A
Fight Nights Global N/A Vacant N/A N/A
ACA February 25, 2023 Russia Kurban Gadzhiev 19-3 (5KO 6SUB) 0
CWFC December 31, 2022 Bangladesh Shajidul Haque 15-5 (5KO) 0
Legacy Fighting Alliance June 23, 2023 United States Cody Davis 8-1 (1KO 3SUB) 0

Women:

Organization Reign Began Champion Record Defenses
UFC September 14, 2024 Kyrgyzstan Valentina Shevchenko 26-4-1 (8KO 7SUB) 2
Bellator MMA April 22, 2022 United States Liz Carmouche 25-8 (11KO 6SUB) 3
Invicta FC N/A Vacant N/A N/A
KSW N/A Vacant N/A N/A
Legacy Fighting Alliance N/A Vacant N/A N/A

See also

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References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Flyweight

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The flyweight is a in combat sports such as and (MMA), characterized by fighters who weigh no more than 112 pounds (50.8 kg) in and up to 125 pounds (56.7 kg) in the (UFC). This division emphasizes speed, technical skill, and agility over raw power, positioning it as one of the lightest competitive categories, typically between (108 pounds or 49 kg in ) and or (115–118 pounds or 52–53.5 kg). Established in 1909 by the National Sporting Club in as the eighth and final of boxing's original traditional weight classes, the flyweight division filled a gap for smaller combatants previously lumped into or lower unregulated bouts. American sanctioning bodies like the National Boxing Association recognized it later in 1916, with Welsh fighter becoming its inaugural world champion and holding the title from 1916 to 1923, earning him the nickname "The Mighty Atom" for his professional record of 132 wins, 3 losses, and 1 draw and pioneering technical prowess. The class has since produced Hall of Fame talents renowned for endurance and precision, including Ricardo López (undefeated 51–0–1 record as a two-division world champion in the 1990s) and Pone Kingpetch (first Thai world champion in 1960), reflecting its global appeal and evolution from British origins to dominance by Latin American and Asian fighters. In MMA, the UFC introduced the men's flyweight division in 2012 through a four-man tournament won by Demetrious Johnson, who defended the title 11 times until 2018 and holds the record for most UFC flyweight wins (13). The women's flyweight division followed in 2017, with Valentina Shevchenko as the dominant champion since 2018, as of November 2025, and is set to defend her title against Zhang Weili on November 15, 2025, showcasing the class's high-paced striking and grappling exchanges. As of November 2025, Alexandre Pantoja holds the UFC men's flyweight title, having defended it four times since winning in 2023, with his next defense against Joshua Van scheduled for December 2025, while the division continues to highlight innovative fighters like Brandon Moreno and Brandon Royval.

Overview

Definition and Weight Limits

The flyweight division serves as a in various combat sports, particularly striking-based disciplines like , (MMA), , and , designating combatants who are among the smallest and lightest, typically ensuring fair matchmaking by grouping fighters of similar size to minimize advantages from physical disparities. This class originated in early 20th-century boxing as one of the lightest divisions, with the term "flyweight" evoking the agility and speed of the insect, reflecting the nimble style of fighters in this category. The primary rationale for such , including flyweight, is to prevent mismatches that could arise from significant differences in height, reach, and power, thereby promoting safer and more competitive bouts. In , the flyweight limit is set at a maximum of 112 pounds (50.8 kg) for title fights, while non-title bouts permit up to 115 pounds (52.2 kg) to allow a three-pound difference. By contrast, in the (UFC) for MMA, the flyweight division caps at 125 pounds (56.7 kg) for championship contests, with a one-pound allowance to 126 pounds (57.2 kg) for non-title fights. Kickboxing and Muay Thai organizations like also recognize flyweight at a maximum of 125 pounds (56.7 kg), aligning closely with MMA standards to accommodate similar athlete builds across disciplines. In bare-knuckle fighting under the (BKFC), men's flyweight follows the same 125-pound (56.7 kg) upper limit, emphasizing the division's role in lighter, high-speed exchanges. Amateur contexts introduce slight variations; for instance, the International Boxing Association (IBA) sets the flyweight class at 52 kilograms (114.6 pounds) for elite male boxers, differing from professional thresholds to suit developmental and Olympic-style competitions. These limits collectively underscore flyweight's position as a foundational division tailored to smaller-statured athletes, prioritizing technical prowess over raw size.

Historical Origins

The flyweight division emerged in professional boxing as the eighth and lightest of the traditional weight classes, established by the National Sporting Club in London in 1909 to accommodate smaller fighters previously competing without formal limits. The term "flyweight" was coined around this time to describe the class's emphasis on speed and agility, inspired by the insect's flight. This formalization addressed the need for structured bouts among lightweight combatants, marking the completion of the standard eight-division system that had evolved since the 19th century. The division's weight limit was set at 112 pounds (50.8 kg), distinguishing it from the heavier bantamweight class above it. Jimmy Wilde, a Welsh boxer known as the "Mighty Atom," became the division's first prominent champion, winning the British flyweight title on February 14, 1916, by defeating Joe Symonds via 12th-round knockout at the National Sporting Club, following his loss to Tancy Lee in a title bid on January 25, 1915. He later claimed the inaugural world flyweight championship on December 18, 1916, with an 11th-round knockout of Young Zulu Kid in London, holding the title until his retirement in 1923. Wilde's reign, spanning over 130 professional fights with only three losses, solidified flyweight's legitimacy and drew global attention to the class. The division spread to amateur boxing through its inclusion in the Olympic Games, debuting as the lightest category at the 1904 St. Louis Olympics with a weight limit of 105 pounds (47.6 kg), won by American George Finnegan. Although boxing was absent from the 1908 and 1912 Games, flyweight returned in 1920 at the Antwerp Olympics with the standardized 112-pound limit, establishing it as a staple of international amateur competition and promoting disciplined training among lighter athletes worldwide. In , the flyweight division gained prominence with the Ultimate Fighting Championship's (UFC) introduction of the 125-pound (56.7 kg) class in early 2012, driven by fan demand for lighter-weight bouts following the success of bantamweight and featherweight divisions. The inaugural UFC flyweight title was determined via a four-man culminating at UFC 152 on September 22, 2012, where defeated by split decision to become the first champion. Expansion into and occurred in the 2010s through promotions like , which launched its flyweight World Championship in 2018 with as the first titleholder and introduced the flyweight title in 2019, reflecting the global rise of Southeast Asian traditions. Flyweight's evolution has notably amplified opportunities for international talent, particularly from and , where smaller body frames are more prevalent, fostering cross-cultural rivalries and elevating the division's visibility in global combat sports.

In Boxing

Professional Boxing

The flyweight division in professional boxing is governed by the four major sanctioning bodies: the (WBC), (WBA), (IBF), and (WBO). These organizations each recognize their own world champion in the division, limited to fighters weighing up to 112 pounds (50.8 kg), but undisputed champions holding all four belts simultaneously are exceedingly rare due to the fragmented nature of title opportunities and regional focus on the weight class. As of November 2025, the current world champions are: WBC titleholder Ricardo Rafael Sandoval of the ; WBA titleholder Ricardo Rafael Sandoval of the ; IBF titleholder Masamichi Yabuki of ; and WBO titleholder Anthony Olascuaga of the . In rankings across these bodies, top contenders include Japan's Seigo Yuri Akui, who appears prominently in WBC, WBA, and overall lists, and the United Kingdom's , ranked as WBC interim champion and a top-five contender in Ring Magazine evaluations. Among the division's historical achievements, the longest reigns include Argentine Omar Andrés Narváez, who held the WBO title for 7 years and 10 months from 2002 to 2010, setting a record for flyweight longevity. Welsh boxer maintained the world flyweight championship for 7 years from 1916 to 1923, a mark of dominance in the early . Notable figures also encompass Mexico's Ricardo López, who retired undefeated at 51-0-1 while holding the IBF title from 1992 to 1998, and Thailand's Pongsaklek Wonjongkam, who achieved a record 19 defenses of the WBC title during his 1996-2007 reign. Key events shaping the division's legacy include the trilogy of bouts between Mexico's and Nicaragua's Román González, starting in 2012 at but influencing flyweight through their prior successes and the high-stakes rivalries that elevated smaller-weight globally. Estrada, a former flyweight champion, and González, who began his career in the division, produced wars that drew international attention despite the weight class's challenges. The flyweight division faces ongoing challenges, particularly its underrepresentation in major U.S. promotions, where heavier weight classes dominate due to audience preferences for larger fighters and limited mainstream exposure for bouts under 115 pounds. This has historically confined high-profile flyweight events to international venues in , , and , though serves as a key feeder system for emerging professionals.

Amateur Boxing

In amateur boxing, the flyweight division for men is defined by the International Boxing Association (IBA) as over 48 kg to a maximum of 51 kg in elite competitions, with weigh-ins conducted daily to ensure compliance—the initial weigh-in verifies both minimum and maximum limits, while subsequent ones focus solely on the maximum, typically at least 3 hours before bouts but up to 24 hours prior in Olympic-style events to prevent rehydration advantages. The division plays a central role in international amateur tournaments, most notably the Olympics, where it debuted at the 1904 Games and has been a staple ever since, showcasing high-speed, technical bouts suited to the weight class. Early American dominance is evident in wins by George Finnegan of the in 1904 and Frankie Genaro, also from the USA, in 1920; later emerged as a powerhouse, securing multiple golds including those by Maikro Romero in 1996 and in 2004, contributing to the countries' historical supremacy in the category with over 20 combined Olympic medals. More recently, of claimed gold at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics in the 52 kg class, defeating of the in the final, while of won in the 51 kg division at the 2024 Paris Games. At the , the flyweight category highlights regional talent from the Americas, with the inaugural 1951 edition seeing Alberto Barenghi of take gold after outpointing competitors like Germán Pardo of in the semifinals. In the 2023 Santiago Games, Junior Alcántara of the won the 51 kg gold, edging out Michael Trindade of in the final to secure his nation's success in the division. The IBA World Boxing Championships further underscore the division's global prestige, with highlights including Saken Bibossinov of Kazakhstan's unanimous decision victory over Roscoe Hill of the in the 51 kg final at the 2021 event, and Hasanboy Dusmatov's dominant performance for gold at the 2023 Championships. Amateur flyweight boxing emphasizes technique, footwork, and precision over power, serving as a crucial developmental pathway for athletes aiming for professional ranks, where many Olympic medalists like Yafai have transitioned successfully post-amateur success. Regionally, the division thrives in events like the European Boxing Championships, where fighters like Martin Molina Salvador of have medaled, though has seen recent golds by such competitors; similarly, the feature strong showings, with of winning flyweight gold in 2022 Birmingham. The division has evolved with IBA rule changes, including a post-2016 shift to 10 Olympic weight classes that standardized flyweight at 52 kg until 2021 expansions to 13 classes adjusted it to 48-51 kg, maintaining the three-round format of each to prioritize and skill.

In Kickboxing and Muay Thai

Weight Class Specifications

In major promotions such as ONE Championship and Glory Kickboxing, the flyweight division upper weight limits vary: ONE uses 61.2 kg (135 lb) for both kickboxing and Muay Thai, while Glory sets it at 57 kg (125.7 lb). This ensures fair competition among lighter strikers, with fighters required to weigh in at or below the respective threshold for title bouts. Glory's flyweight division has been less active in recent years, with no current world champion as of November 2025. Rule differences between and significantly impact flyweight contests. In , as governed by organizations like and Glory, competitors may use punches, kicks, and knees to the head and body, but elbows are prohibited, and clinch work is limited to brief knee exchanges without prolonged . In contrast, rules, as outlined by the WBC , permit elbows, extended clinching for knee strikes, and limited sweeps or throws, adding layers of technique suited to the division's agile fighters. Weigh-in protocols emphasize fighter safety, typically occurring 24-48 hours before the event with mandatory hydration testing via (≤1.025) to prevent dehydration-related cuts. For title fights, fighters must hit the exact division limit; non-title bouts allow a with limited rehydration to cap post-weigh-in weight gain at 10% of the class limit. Sub-divisions exist in various Asian promotions to accommodate nuanced size differences. is commonly set at an upper limit of 115 lb (52.2 kg) in organizations like ONE Championship's strawweight-adjacent classes, while extends to 130 lb (59 kg) in some regional circuits for transitional bouts. Equipment varies by discipline and level. Professional flyweight fighters use 8-10 oz gloves, with amateurs adding shin guards for protection; competitors wear 8 oz gloves and fight barefoot to maintain traditional footing and mobility. For women, flyweight divisions often range from 115-135 lb (52.2-61.2 kg), with separate titles in promotions like and WBC Muay Thai to account for physiological differences, featuring private weigh-ins and adjusted round lengths of 2 minutes. Safety adaptations, including hydration testing and progressive pre-fight weigh-ins (e.g., ≤5% over limit 14 days out), are particularly rigorous in these stand-up sports to mitigate risks from extreme weight cuts, distinguishing them from grappling-heavy disciplines. These protocols were briefly referenced in the historical adoption of classes from during the 1970s expansion of striking sports.

Notable Champions and Events

In , Superlek Kiatmoo9 from holds the Flyweight Kickboxing as of November 2025, having successfully defended the title against Japan's in a high-stakes bout at on January 28, 2024, which generated a promotional record gate of $2 million USD. Superlek's reign underscores his versatility, as he previously captured the ONE Bantamweight before moving down in weight class. The ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Championship has seen intense competition, with Rodtang Jitmuangnon establishing himself as a dominant figure by winning the title in August 2019 and making five successful defenses through 2023 before being stripped in 2024 due to a weight miss. As of November 2025, the title remains vacant, with Rodtang scheduled to challenge former ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai Champion Nong-O Hama for it at ONE 173 on November 16 in Tokyo. Earlier in the division's history, Petchdam Petchyindee Academy claimed the inaugural ONE Flyweight Kickboxing World Title in May 2019 by defeating Elias Mahmoudi, marking a breakthrough for Thai fighters in the promotion's striking disciplines. Legendary figures like Saepong have also left an indelible mark on flyweight divisions, with his career rooted in lighter weights where he secured multiple Lumpinee Stadium titles across flyweight and classes during the 2000s and 2010s, influencing generations of Thai strikers through his technical precision. Key events have elevated the flyweight class's profile, such as ONE: Century in October 2019, which featured high-caliber matchups including strawweight bouts that showcased emerging talents like defending his title. The Superlek vs. Takeru clash further highlighted the division's global appeal, drawing massive attendance and pay-per-view interest as a generational superfight between kickboxing elites. Thai fighters' dominance in flyweight kickboxing and stems from the rigorous traditions of venues like Lumpinee Stadium, where prospects hone elite skills from a young age, producing champions who excel in international promotions due to their conditioning and tactical depth.

In

Division in Major Promotions

In major promotions, the flyweight division adheres to the Unified Rules of Mixed Martial Arts, which standardize the upper weight limit at 125 lb (56.7 kg) for men, with bouts structured in five-minute rounds typically spanning three or five rounds depending on the event format. This division is characterized by a fast pace driven by high cardio demands, as lighter fighters rely on speed, , and to maintain pressure throughout the fight. The (UFC) established its flyweight division in early 2012, marking the introduction of the 125 lb class through a four-man at UFC on FX 1, with the inaugural champion crowned later that year. , another prominent promotion, operates its flyweight division at the same 125 lb limit and launched a men's version in 2023 to expand its roster, while previously featuring a women's counterpart. In contrast, deviates from the unified standard by setting its flyweight at 135 lb (61.2 kg), though it places a strong emphasis on techniques within the division, aligning with its hybrid ruleset that rewards submissions and ground control. Promotion-specific differences highlight varying operational focuses: the UFC emphasizes global pay-per-view events and international talent pipelines, fostering a high-profile flyweight roster, whereas Bellator prioritizes regional titles and television broadcasts, often integrating flyweight bouts into broader cards with less emphasis on standalone stardom. The UFC introduced a women's flyweight division at 125 lb in 2017 via The Ultimate Fighter Season 26, expanding opportunities for female competitors in a class that combines technical striking and grappling. Fighter demographics in the flyweight division show strong representation from , , and , where cultural traditions in jiu-jitsu, , and shoot-style wrestling contribute to a talent pool emphasizing versatile skill sets. fight durations in flyweight tend to be shorter than in heavier divisions, reflecting the division's emphasis on constant movement and quick transitions rather than prolonged exchanges reliant on raw power. Weigh-in procedures across major promotions include a rehydration window of approximately for select events, allowing fighters time to recover post-cut, with intravenous (IV) fluids permitted only under medical supervision and limited to 50 mL per six hours since the 2015 anti-doping policy update. The division's evolution in the UFC overcame initial skepticism about its marketability and depth, following the tournament debut, to become one of the promotion's most stacked classes with diverse matchmaking opportunities. Challenges in the flyweight division include severe weight cuts, which often exceed 7-10% of body weight and rank among the most extreme percentage-wise due to the smaller frame sizes, leading to heightened health risks such as dehydration-related organ strain and impaired performance.

Championship Histories

The (UFC) flyweight division was introduced in 2012 through a four-man tournament, culminating in Demetrious Johnson's victory over in the final at UFC 152 on September 22, 2012, to claim the inaugural title. Johnson maintained an unprecedented dominance, securing 11 successful defenses over his 2,022-day reign, which ended with a submission loss to at on August 4, 2018—the longest reign and most defenses in the division's history. Cejudo defended the belt once against before vacating it in December 2019 to pursue the title. Figueiredo captured the vacant title via second-round submission over Benavidez at UFC Fight Night 174 on February 29, 2020, marking the start of a turbulent era defined by high turnover. His reign included defenses against Benavidez and but was interrupted by a three-fight rivalry with , beginning with Moreno's third-round submission win at on December 12, 2020. Figueiredo reclaimed the title at on January 23, 2021, only for Moreno to win it again via third-round submission at on June 12, 2021, in a pivotal back-and-forth exchange that highlighted the division's intensity. Moreno's second reign ended with a unanimous decision loss to at on July 8, 2023; Pantoja has since defended the championship twice, submitting Moreno at on December 16, 2023, and knocking out Steve Erceg at UFC 301 on May 4, 2024, establishing himself as the current titleholder as of November 2025. In , the flyweight division has seen limited activity, with notable highlights including crossover appeal from higher-weight stars like Patricio Pitbull, who competed across promotions but never held the flyweight belt; the title became vacant following the 2024 PFL acquisition of assets, leaving no active champion in the division. established its flyweight MMA title in 2014, with Adriano Moraes as the inaugural champion after defeating David Mejia at ONE FC 15. The division gained prominence through Demetrious Johnson's 2018 trade from the UFC, where he won the 2019 ONE Flyweight World Grand Prix and later captured the title via over Adriano Moraes at on September 30, 2022. Johnson held the title until his retirement in September 2024 at ONE 168: , after which the belt was vacated and subsequently won by Wakamatsu in 2025; as of November 2025, Wakamatsu is the champion and is scheduled to defend against at ONE 173. Christian Lee, a dual-division champion in and , has occasionally crossed paths with flyweight contenders but has not held the flyweight crown. The UFC women's flyweight division launched in 2017 via an eight-woman tournament won by Nicco Montano, though the title was vacated shortly after due to contractual issues. claimed the vacant belt with a over Joanna Jedrzejczyk at on December 8, 2018, embarking on a seven-defense reign that lasted until her split decision loss to at on March 4, 2023. Shevchenko regained the title via against Grasso at Noche UFC on September 16, 2023, holding it through 2024 with additional defenses, while Grasso's brief reign positioned her as a key figure before the rematch; as of November 2025, Shevchenko remains the champion amid ongoing Brazilian and Mexican influences in the weight class. Overall, the 2020s have marked a shift toward Brazilian dominance in the UFC flyweight landscape, exemplified by Figueiredo and Pantoja, alongside elevated title turnover attributed to the physiological challenges of extreme weight cuts at 125 pounds.

In Bare-Knuckle Fighting

Overview and Rules

The flyweight division in bare-knuckle fighting serves as the lightest professional weight class in modern promotions, accommodating male fighters up to a maximum of 125 lb (56.7 kg) and female fighters up to 125 lb (56.7 kg), with competitors using only hand wraps for fist protection and no gloves or padding permitted. This setup promotes a focus on technical striking, speed, and footwork in a pure stand-up format. The Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC), the leading promotion, revived regulated bare-knuckle events in 2018 as the first legal U.S. organization since 1889, drawing from 19th-century traditions of ungloved boxing contests that predated the Queensberry Rules adoption of padded gloves in the 1890s. Core rules emphasize continuous action, with bouts typically consisting of five 2-minute rounds and a 1-minute rest period between them, though non-title women's fights follow the same structure for consistency and . is prohibited to prevent stalling, ensuring all action remains stand-up only, while fouls such as strikes, headbutts, , , or striking a downed opponent result in warnings, point deductions, or immediate disqualification at the referee's discretion. protocols include mandatory ringside medical supervision with stoppages for uncontrolled bleeding or impairment, a 10-second for knockdowns, and limits on three knockdowns in a round leading to an automatic stoppage; the wrapped fists provide minimal protection without knuckle padding, reducing hand fractures but increasing facial cut risks compared to gloved combat sports. The BKFC dominates the promotion landscape for flyweight bare-knuckle events, sanctioning both men's and women's divisions, while BYB Extreme also incorporates flyweight matchups as part of its global series. The women's flyweight title was established in with its inaugural bout, underscoring the division's emphasis on and precision among female athletes in a historically male-dominated. Unlike gloved or MMA, bare-knuckle flyweight fights often feature quicker conclusions due to the heightened impact of unpadded strikes, leading to more cuts and swelling but eliminating opportunities for weight-based through or clinch control, as all engagements must remain upright and separated by the .

Champions and Developments

In bare-knuckle fighting, the men's flyweight division gained prominence with the crowning of John Dodson as the inaugural BKFC champion in 2023, when he secured the title via first-round TKO against JR Ridge in a crossover bout highlighting his transition from UFC. Dodson, a former UFC title challenger, defended the belt in a high-profile main event at BKFC 59 against undefeated prospect Dagoberto Aguero on March 29, 2024, in , where the intense five-round clash ended in a unanimous draw, allowing Dodson to retain the championship. As of November 2025, Dodson remains the reigning BKFC men's flyweight champion, maintaining an undefeated 4-0-1 record in the promotion. The women's flyweight division has been dominated by Christine Ferea since she captured the inaugural BKFC title on February 19, 2022, defeating Britain Hart by unanimous decision in a bout that established her as a knockout artist with aggressive striking. Ferea has since achieved multiple successful defenses, including her fifth against Christine Vicens via fourth-round TKO due to doctor stoppage on December 21, 2024, at BKFC on DAZN: Hollywood, bringing her BKFC record to 10-1 with seven knockouts at that time. In 2025, she continued her reign with a sixth title defense against Jessica Borga on October 4, 2025, at BKFC 82, winning by fourth-round KO and updating her record to 11-1 with eight knockouts, the most in the division's history. Ferea's knockout prowess, exemplified by eight total stoppages across her BKFC career, underscores her impact on the weight class. Notable events have spotlighted flyweight action, such as BKFC 59's title draw, which drew significant attention for its back-and-forth exchanges and local appeal in . The 2025 BKFC Fight Night in , on October 18 featured a compelling flyweight undercard bout between crossover veteran and Tyler Randall, with Maness securing a second-round to improve to 2-0 in BKFC. Key figures in the division include Dustin Pague, a former UFC and Bellator fighter who transitioned to BKFC and headlined a 2025 event in , bringing MMA pedigree and drawing larger audiences through . Rising prospects like Tyler Randall, with a 4-4 BKFC record and aspirations to challenge for the title, represent the depth of emerging talent. Since the legalization of professional bare-knuckle fighting in in , the BKFC flyweight divisions have experienced substantial growth, contributing to the promotion's overall 100% attendance increase in 2024 and expansion into international markets. In 2025, BKFC introduced European titles and hosted events in the UK and , elevating flyweight bouts on global stages and fostering regional talent development. The future of flyweight in bare-knuckle fighting appears promising, with increasing crossovers from UFC veterans like Dodson and Pague enhancing the division's legitimacy and attracting mainstream interest to BKFC events.

References

  1. https://boxrec.com/wiki/index.php/Weight_divisions
  2. https://www.ufc.com/news/understanding-ufc-weight-classes-and-weigh-ins
  3. https://www.espn.com/boxing/story/_/id/40438468/list-weight-classes-boxing-mma-ufc
  4. https://blogs.rdxsports.com/boxing-weight-classes-explained/
  5. https://www.ibhof.com/pages/about/inductees/oldtimer/wilde.html
  6. https://wbcboxing.com/en/the-18-divisions-of-boxing/
  7. https://coxscorner.tripod.com/wilde.html
  8. https://www.linealboxingchampion.com/flyweight
  9. https://www.thefightcity.com/top-12-time-best-flyweights-boxing/
  10. https://mmasucka.com/history-of-ufc-flyweight-championship/
  11. https://www.ufc.com/news/ufc-flyweight-title-lineage-johnson-cejudo-figueiredo-moreno
  12. https://www.ufc.com/rankings
  13. https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/story/sports/ufc/2025/10/13/ufc-323-alexandre-pantoja-vs-joshua-van-booked-title-fight/85850593007/
  14. https://evolve-mma.com/blog/4-major-boxing-belts-and-organizations-explained-wba-wbc-ibf-wbo-more/
  15. https://box.live/world-rankings/flyweight/
  16. https://www.thesportster.com/longest-title-reigns-history-boxing-ranked/
  17. https://www.britannica.com/biography/Jimmy-Wilde
  18. https://www.boxingscene.com/articles/measured-against-all-time-pongsaklek-wonjongkam
  19. https://www.espn.com/boxing/story/_/id/35118645/roman-chocolatito-gonzalez-juan-francisco-estrada-line-how-got-trilogy-fight
  20. https://www.cbssports.com/boxing/news/juan-estrada-edges-roman-chocolatito-gonzalez-by-majority-decision-in-dramatic-trilogy-bout/
  21. https://bleacherreport.com/articles/52173-why-boxing-is-becoming-less-relevent-in-america
  22. https://www.quora.com/What-caused-boxing-to-lose-its-popularity-in-the-USA-and-other-countries-around-the-world
  23. https://www.iba.sport/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/20240303-IBA-Technical-Competition-Rules-v7-clean.pdf
  24. https://www.olympics.com/en/news/boxing-olympics-qualification-weight-categories
  25. https://olympics.com/en/olympic-games/tokyo-2020/results/boxing
  26. https://www.bbc.com/sport/olympics/58125750
  27. https://www.nbcolympics.com/news/boxing-recap-aug-8-flyweight-dusmatov-wins-second-olympic-gold
  28. https://www.olympics.com/en/news/boxing-2023-pan-american-games-results-medals
  29. https://www.iba.sport/news/aiba-increases-number-of-weight-categories-for-boxers
  30. https://www.onefc.com/features/a-complete-history-of-the-one-flyweight-muay-thai-world-championship/
  31. https://www.onefc.com/martial-arts/
  32. https://www.wbcmuaythai.com/rules-regulations
  33. https://muaythai.com/muay-thai-weight-classes/
  34. https://www.onefc.com/athletes/superlek/
  35. https://www.onefc.com/videos/rage-ignited-dont-miss-superlek-and-takeru-at-one-173/
  36. https://www.sportskeeda.com/mma/news-i-m-happy-part-history-superlek-ecstatic-one-165-showdown-takeru-broke-record-ticket-sales
  37. https://www.onefc.com/athletes/petchdam/
  38. https://muaythai.com/saenchai-saenpong-muay-thai-great/
  39. https://www.onefc.com/events/century/
  40. https://www.abcboxing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/unified-rules-mma-2019.pdf
  41. https://www.quora.com/In-MMA-or-in-the-UFC-how-are-bantamweight-or-flyweight-fights-different-than-light-heavyweight-or-heavyweight-fights-besides-being-faster-Is-it-a-different-style
  42. https://www.espn.com.sg/mma/story/_/id/7340906/ufc-add-125-pound-flyweight-division-early-2012
  43. https://www.mmafighting.com/2023/5/25/23737998/bellator-to-launch-mens-flyweight-division
  44. https://www.givemesport.com/88105760-one-championship-weight-classes-mma/
  45. https://www.cbssports.com/mma/news/bellator-mma-to-introduce-official-rankings-across-all-weight-classes-and-pound-for-pound/
  46. https://www.espn.com/espnw/sports/article/19345095/ufc-confirms-addition-women-flyweight-division
  47. https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/39576763/mma-world-power-index-usa-brazil-russia-top-list-mexico-soon-join-them
  48. https://bleacherreport.com/articles/1348137-ufc-numbers-do-the-lighter-weight-classes-finish-fights
  49. https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/story/sports/ufc/2023/02/16/ufc-issues-anti-doping-program-iv-rules-reminder-to-fighters/80960310007/
  50. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SNbA0lgW6p8
  51. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9782639/
  52. https://immaf.org/2020/10/29/how-severe-is-weight-cutting-in-mma/
  53. https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/story/sports/ufc/2024/12/06/ufc-flyweight-champion-history-demetrious-johnson-figueiredo-pantoja/76830705007/
  54. https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/14947566/current-all-ufc-champions
  55. https://www.sportskeeda.com/mma/ufc-champions
  56. https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/39765796/everything-new-bellator-16-title-fights-matches
  57. https://www.onefc.com/features/breaking-down-the-flyweight-mma-division-after-demetrious-johnsons-retirement/
  58. https://www.onefc.com/events/one173/
  59. https://www.ufc.com/news/ufc-womens-flyweight-title-lineage
  60. https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/24149628/all-ufc-women-flyweight-champions
  61. https://www.ufc.com/news/where-we-stand-womens-flyweight-division
  62. https://sports.betmgm.ca/en/blog/ufc/history-of-ufc-flyweight-champions-all-title-holders-bm05/
  63. https://www.bkfc.com/about
  64. https://www.boxbets.co.uk/the-rules-of-bare-knuckle-fighting-championship/
  65. https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/culture-features/bkfc-david-feldman-bare-knuckle-fighting-1235007457/
  66. https://www.bkfc.com/rules
  67. https://www.abcboxing.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/bkf-unified-rules-rev-jul-2024.pdf
  68. https://www.mmafighting.com/2022/1/13/22881948/britain-hart-vs-christine-ferea-inaugural-flyweight-title-fight-set-for-feb-19-knucklemania-event
  69. https://www.bareknucklenation.com/about-bare-knuckle
  70. https://www.bkfc.com/fighters/john-dodson
  71. https://cagesidepress.com/2024/03/29/bkfc-59-dodson-vs-aguero-full-results/
  72. https://www.bkfc.com/rankings
  73. https://www.fightmag.com/bkfc-82-christine-ferea-faces-jessica-borga-frankie-edgar-meets-jimmie-rivera/
  74. https://www.lowkickmma.com/christine-ferea-breaks-jessica-borga-nose/
  75. https://www.sherdog.com/fighter/Christine-Ferea-96167
  76. https://www.krqe.com/news/community/dodson-fight-ends-in-a-draw-other-new-mexicans-shine-in-bkfc-59/
  77. https://www.fightmag.com/bkfc-hammond-henry-vs-stewart-results/
  78. https://www.bkfc.com/news/tyler-randall-ready-to-stake-his-claim-as-bkfcs-best-flyweight
  79. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/bkfc-announces-electrifying-event-lineup-through-may-2025-expanding-global-reach-302392930.html
  80. https://www.thesportster.com/former-mma-fighters-who-switched-to-bare-knuckle-boxing/
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