Rapid Weight Regain is Not Linked to Success in Professional UFC Fighters During Competition

Authors

Antonella V. Schwarz, Barry UniversityFollow
Peter J. Byers, Nova Southeastern UniversityFollow
Lauren Stern, Nova Southeastern UniversityFollow
Gabriel J. Sanders, University of CincinnatiFollow
Tobin Silver, Nova Southeastern UniversityFollow
Jose Antonio, Nova Southeastern UniversityFollow
Corey Peacock, Nova Southeastern UniversityFollow

Abstract

Background: Although previous research has explored rapid weight loss (RWL) and rapid weight regain (RWRG) of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) athletes, there is a lack of research analyzing this in fighters for the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). There is also a lack of literature analyzing how RWRG in MMA athletes affects performance outcomes. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to compare official versus fight-night weigh-ins and whether the percentage change influenced winning or losing records in UFC athletes. Methods: Twenty-four official and fight-night weights were obtained utilizing the commission-calibrated scale. Paired Samples T-Tests were utilized to determine if official and fight-night weights differed. A regression model was used to determine if % change predicted fight outcome. Results: A significant (p < 0.001) difference exists between official and fight-night weight in UFC athletes. Additionally, there was no significant (p = 0.855) finding that % change was predictive of fight outcome. Conclusion: UFC athletes significantly increase their body weight following official weigh-ins. However, weight gain percentages did not impact competitive outcomes for this event. Based on this data, weight gain percentage is not linked to success in professional UFC fighters during competition. This may warrant attention from MMA athletes and weight-cut specialists when practicing RWRG.

Author Bio(s)

Antonella V. Schwarz, PhD, MS, LAT, ATC, CSCS is an Assitant Professor of Sport & Exercise Sciences in the College of Health and Wellness at Barry University in Miami, FL. She is also a licensed athletic trainer and strength and conditioning specialist.

Peter J. Byers is a graduate student in sports science at Nova Southeastern University. His research interests include mixed martial arts and sports science.

Lauren Stern, MPH is a second-year medical student at Nova Southeastern University Dr. Kiran C. Patel College Of Osteopathic Medicine in Ft. Lauderdale, FL.

Gabriel J. Sanders, PhD, is an Assistant Professor in the Exercise Science Department at the University of Cincinnati. His research interests focus on wearable technology, daily workloads, and fatigue in athletes.

Tobin Silver, PhD, CSCS, is a Professor and Practicum Director in the College of Health and Human Performance at Nova Southeastern University in Ft. Lauderdale, FL.

Jose Antonio, PhD, CSCS, CISSN, is a Professor in the College of Health and Human Performance at Nova Southeastern University in Ft. Lauderdale, FL.

Corey A. Peacock, PhD, is a Professor, Chair and Program Director of Health and Human Performance at Nova Southeastern University. His research focuses on mixed martial arts performance

Recommended Citation

Schwarz AV, Byers PJ, Stern L, Sanders GJ, Silver T, Antonio J, et al. Rapid Weight Regain is Not Linked to Success in Professional UFC Fighters During Competition. The Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice. 2025 Jan 17;23(1), Article 24.