MMA is a combat sport that, according to the Unified Rules put together in the 2000s, has 15 weight classes. However, the UFC is not obligated to include all of them, which is the reason why there are “only” 8 weight classes for men and 4 for female fighters. Each UFC fighter competes in one division where they fight against opponents similar in weight and size, and they can also move up or down in weight to change the weight class.
The most common ways to get into UFC are the following: Join a reputable a MMA gym, compete in local MMA circuits to gain experience and to be scouted, apply directly to UFC to be considered, and contact influential MMA management.
If a UFC fighter misses weight at the first weigh-in, the athletic commission will give them up to two hours to make the weight. But if they fail again at the second weigh-in, the bout will likely turn into a catchweight fight. The fighter who missed weight may forfeit up to 30% of their purse.
In short, UFC fighters fight around 2 or 3 times per year on average. Unranked to low-ranked fighters who are working their way up the ranking may fight up to 5 times in a single year, while top-ranked fighters usually fight once per year. The most common reasons that impede fighters from competing are injuries, contract disputes, visa issues, medical suspensions, and brutal weight cuts.
When it comes to the sport of MMA, the UFC fighters are considered the best fighters in the world due to UFC’s reputation for being the best MMA organization in the world. For this reason, the UFC attracts the top-tier MMA fighters whose ultimate goal is to win the UFC title because that means they are the best in the world. As such the majority of the best and most talented fighters are a big part of the UFC roster. Other promotions like Bellator or ONE FC also have top-level fighters, but the strength of the roster in these promotions and level of competition is nowhere near the UFC.
A ‘no contest’ decision in a UFC fight can be declared if one or both fighters is injured accidentally, or by an unintentional illegal action, or if there is interference in the fight from the referee or another non-combatant. A fighter’s dishonest action or drug use can also have this result.