Weight classes in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) are crucial for fair and safe competition, with the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) and the Abu Dhabi Combat Club (ADCC) setting the standards. The IBJJF, known for organizing top-tier events like the Pan Championships and the World Jiu-Jitsu Championship, uses a detailed weight class system to ensure fairness and structure, much like other combat sports. This comprehensive guide covers these weight classes.
History of IBJJF Weight Classes
The International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) is the leading organization in the sport of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), organizing some of the most prestigious competitions worldwide, such as the World Jiu-Jitsu Championship, Pan-American Championship, and European Championship. The IBJJF has developed a comprehensive system of weight classes to ensure fair and structured competition.
The IBJJF was founded in 2002 by Carlos Gracie Jr., but the history of weight classes in BJJ predates the federation. The first World Jiu-Jitsu Championship, also known as the Mundials, was held in 1996 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Initially, the men's division featured ten weight classes, ranging from -57.5 kg to an open class division, while the women's division began with only two weight classes: Light and Heavy.
Over the years, the IBJJF has refined and expanded its weight class system. By 2016, the women's division had grown to include nine weight classes, aligning more closely with the men's structure. This expansion was part of a broader effort to promote gender equality and accommodate a wider range of competitors.
The IBJJF currently uses distinct weight classes for Gi (traditional uniform) and No-Gi (without uniform) competitions. The weight classes differ slightly between these two formats to account for the weight of the Gi.
Stop losing progress between sessions—keep your skills sharp with Kimura’s tools. Join the best BJJ community!
IBJJF Gi Weight Classes
Male
Rooster: 57.5 kg (126.5 lbs)
Light Feather: 64 kg (141 lbs)
Feather: 70 kg (154 lbs)
Light: 76 kg (167 lbs)
Middle: 82.3 kg (181 lbs)
Medium Heavy: 88.3 kg (195 lbs)
Heavy: 94.3 kg (208 lbs)
Super Heavy: 97.5 kg (215 lbs)
Ultra Heavy: No maximum
Female
Rooster: 47.5 kg (107 lbs)
Light Feather: 52.2 kg (115 lbs)
Feather: 57 kg (125.5 lbs)
Light: 62.8 kg (138.5 lbs)
Middle: 69.1 kg (152 lbs)
Medium Heavy: 76.1 kg (167.5 lbs)
Heavy: 82.3 kg (181.5 lbs)
Super Heavy: No maximum
IBJJF No-Gi Weight Classes
Male
Rooster: 55.5 kg (122.5 lbs)
Light Feather: 61.5 kg (136 lbs)
Feather: 67.5 kg (149 lbs)
Light: 73.5 kg (162.5 lbs)
Middle: 79.5 kg (175.5 lbs)
Medium Heavy: 85.5 kg (188.5 lbs)
Heavy: 91.5 kg (202 lbs)
Super Heavy: 97.5 kg (215 lbs)
Ultra Heavy: No maximum
Female
Rooster: 46.5 kg (103 lbs)
Light Feather: 51.5 kg (114 lbs)
Feather: 56.5 kg (125 lbs)
Light: 61.5 kg (136 lbs)
Middle: 66.5 kg (147 lbs)
Medium Heavy: 71.5 kg (158 lbs)
Heavy: 76.5 kg (169 lbs)
Super Heavy: No maximum
Importance of Weight Classes
Weight classes are very important in Jiu-Jitsu to keep the competition fair and balanced, making sure athletes of all sizes have a fair shot. When competitors weigh in their gis, they add an extra 2 to 4 lbs to their weight. The IBJJF also has an open weight class, or absolute division, where blue, purple, brown, and black belts from different weight classes compete to crown the absolute champion. These weight classes ensure everyone gets a fair match and maintain a competitive spirit in each division, setting the gold standard for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitions worldwide.
