The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is the world’s largest and most renowned mixed martial arts (MMA) organization. Founded in 1993, the UFC revolutionized combat sports by bringing together fighters from various disciplines on a single stage.
Origin and Evolution of the UFC
The UFC was created to determine which martial art was the most effective in a real fight. In its early days, events lacked strict rules and had no weight divisions, allowing matchups between fighters of different sizes and styles. Over time, to ensure competitors’ safety, stricter regulations were implemented, and weight categories were established.
How Do Weight Categories Work in the UFC?
The UFC organizes events where fighters compete in an octagon, an eight-sided cage offering a clear view from all angles. Fights consist of five-minute rounds with a one-minute break between each. Non-title fights usually have three rounds, while title bouts and main events can last up to five rounds.
To ensure fair matchups, the UFC divides fighters into the following weight categories:
- Heavyweight: Over 93 kg and under 120.2 kg.
- Light Heavyweight: Under 93 kg.
- Middleweight: Under 83.9 kg.
- Welterweight: Under 77.1 kg.
- Lightweight: Under 70.3 kg.
- Featherweight: Under 65.8 kg.
- Bantamweight: Under 61.2 kg.
- Flyweight: Under 56.7 kg.
- Strawweight: Under 52.3 kg (women only).
What Do the Numbers Mean in UFC Fights?
The numbers associated with UFC fighters have two distinct meanings. First, they indicate the ranking or position of each fighter in their weight class. Rankings are based on fight results, opponent quality, and fighter performance. Updated regularly, they determine the best fighters in each division and who deserves a title shot. The number 1 is the official title contender, number 2 is the second-best ranked, and so on. Champions are unranked as they hold the top position.
Second, numbers also identify the UFC event where the fight takes place. The UFC numbers all its events, with each category maintaining its own sequence. High-profile events are named “UFC” followed by a number, such as UFC 270. These events usually feature a title fight as the main event and are available via pay-per-view (PPV). Lower-profile events are called “UFC Fight Night,” followed by a number or the hosting city, such as UFC Fight Night 197 or UFC Fight Night: Las Vegas. These often feature less-known or lower-ranked fighters and are aired on television or streaming platforms.
How Are UFC Fights Scored?
The UFC uses a 10-point must system for scoring, similar to boxing. Fights consist of five-minute rounds—three for regular bouts and five for main events or title fights. Three judges score each round, awarding 10 points to the winner and 9 or fewer to the loser, depending on their dominance. Rarely, both fighters receive 10 points for a round. At the end, scores are tallied to decide the winner by unanimous, split, or majority decision, depending on judge agreement.
The scoring criteria are:
- Effective striking or grappling: The impact of strikes or submissions that cause damage or weaken the opponent. Quality outweighs quantity.
- Octagon control: Maintaining control of the octagon’s center and dictating the fight’s pace.
- Effective aggressiveness: Demonstrating consistent offensive intent during the fight.
- Effective defense: Avoiding the opponent’s attacks through blocks, evasions, or counterstrikes.
These criteria are applied in order of importance, with effective striking and grappling prioritized over others.
Where to Watch UFC Events
UFC events are broadcast worldwide via various platforms. In the UK and US, you can watch live on paid TV channels or streaming services with broadcast rights. The UFC also offers its own streaming platform, UFC Fight Pass, which provides live events, replays, and exclusive content.
To stay updated on upcoming events and schedules, visit the official UFC website or follow their social media channels.
