Lightweight (MMA)
The lightweight division in mixed martial arts refers to a number of different weight classes:
- The UFC lightweight division with an upper limit at 155 lb (70.3 kg)
- The Shooto lightweight division, which limits competitors to 145 lb (65.8 kg)
- ONE Championship's lightweight limits between 156 and 170 lb (70.4 to 77.1 kg)
Ambiguity and clarification
For the sake of uniformity, most American mixed martial arts media outlets consider Lightweight competitors to be between 146 and 155 lb (66 and 70 kg). This encompasses The Shooto Welterweight division (154 lb / 70 kg).
The UFC's lightweight division was reinstated at UFC 58 after falling into disuse following UFC 49. Sean Sherk, a former welterweight contender, defeated Kenny Florian at UFC 64, becoming the first UFC lightweight champion since 2002.
The lightweight limit, as defined by the Nevada State Athletic Commission[1] and the Association of Boxing Commissions[2] is 155 lb (70 kg).
Professional champions
Current champions
This table is not always up to date. Last updated on July 7, 2016.
| Organization | Reign Began | Champion | Record | Defenses |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UFC | July 7, 2016 |  Eddie Alvarez
|
28-4 (15KO 7SUB) | 0 |
| Bellator MMA | June 24, 2016 | Michael Chandler
|
15-3 (7KO 6SUB) | 0 |
| WSOF | January 18, 2014 | Justin Gaethje
|
16-0 (13KO 1SUB) | 4 |
| ONE Championship | April 5, 2013 |  Shinya Aoki
|
39-6 (2KO 25SUB) | 2 |
See also
- List of current MMA Lightweight champions
- List of UFC Lightweight Champions
- List of Strikeforce Lightweight Champions
- List of Pancrase Lightweight Champions
References
- ^ "Nevada Revised Statutes: Chapter 467 - Unarmed Combat". http://www.leg.state.nv.us. Retrieved 2007-02-20.
{{cite web}}: External link in|website= - ^ "Unified Rules of MMA". Association of Boxing Commissions. Retrieved 2012-07-15.