BJJ Competition Weight Classes: IBJJF, ADCC, and More
BJJBJJ App TeamΒ·β±οΈ 2 min readΒ·π Mar 31, 2026
β°Contents
Complete guide to BJJ competition weight classes: IBJJF, ADCC, and nogi formats with weight cut advice and division strategy.
Contents
IBJJF Weight Classes (Adult)
| Division | Weight Limit (Men) | Weight Limit (Women) |
|---|---|---|
| Rooster | 57.5 kg | 48.5 kg |
| Light Feather | 64 kg | 53.5 kg |
| Feather | 70 kg | 58.5 kg |
| Light | 76 kg | 64 kg |
| Middle | 82.3 kg | 69 kg |
| Medium Heavy | 88.3 kg | 74 kg |
| Heavy | 94.3 kg | 79.3 kg |
| Super Heavy | 100.5 kg | 84.3 kg |
| Ultra Heavy | No limit | No limit |
ADCC Weight Classes
| Division | Weight |
|---|---|
| Men -66 kg | Up to 66 kg |
| Men -77 kg | 66.1 - 77 kg |
| Men -88 kg | 77.1 - 88 kg |
| Men -99 kg | 88.1 - 99 kg |
| Men +99 kg | Over 99 kg |
| Women -60 kg | Up to 60 kg |
| Women +60 kg | Over 60 kg |
Choosing Your Division
The best division is the one closest to your natural walking weight. Small cuts (2-3% body weight) are acceptable. Large cuts (5%+) compromise performance significantly and carry health risks.
βΉοΈ Division strategy: If you are between divisions, consider competing up. The skill gap between divisions is often smaller than the recovery deficit from cutting weight.
Weight Cut Timeline
| Days Out | Strategy |
|---|---|
| 14 days | Reduce carbs to get to within 2kg of limit |
| 3-5 days | Reduce sodium to reduce water retention |
| 1-2 days | Mild water reduction only if needed |
| Day of | Rehydrate with electrolytes between matches |
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I cut weight for BJJ competition?
For most practitioners, cutting weight is not worth it. The performance cost outweighs the competitive advantage of facing smaller opponents. Competing at natural weight means you feel better, move better, and recover faster between matches.
How do IBJJF weigh-ins work?
IBJJF weighs competitors in gi (with gi on). You must make weight at weigh-in, which typically occurs shortly before your division competes. There is no allowance after weigh-in β you must be at or under your division limit.
What happens if I miss weight at a BJJ tournament?
You are moved up to the next weight class. If that class has already competed, you may be disqualified. Contact the tournament organizers in advance if you are concerned about making weight.