In order to maintain competitive balance, boxing must be divided into weight classes to prevent larger men from taking advantage of smaller opponents. The weight classes range from heavyweight, which boasts competitors weighing more than 200 lbs., to strawweight, which features fighters weighing 105 lbs. or less. Featherweight boxing is on the low end of the scale, with a weight limit of 126 lbs.
History
Featherweight boxing dates back to the 1860s, when boxing matches were fought with bare knuckles. It wasn't until the 1880s that an official weight limit was established, with the original standard being set at 118 lbs. The weight limit continued to fluctuate over the years, first falling to 110 lbs. before climbing to 122 lbs., then finally settling in at 126 lbs. in 1920.
Location
Weight differential is even more important in boxing's lower weight classes. While 8 lbs. or more may separate the upper weight classes, 3 or 4 lbs. are all that separates the lower divisions. In boxing, featherweight finds itself between lightweight (135 lbs.) and bantamweight (118 lbs.). But subdivisions have been created to ensure safety and fairness. Junior lightweight checks in at 130 lbs., only 4 lbs. heavier than featherweight. Junior featherweight has a limit of 122 lbs.
Benefits
For spectators used to plodding heavyweights, featherweight boxing provides aggressive, fast-paced action. Featherweights, and all lower weight classes for that matter, are known for throwing many more punches than their heavier counterparts. The punches are also faster and thrown in combinations, providing added excitement. Featherweight fighters also tend to be technically superior to those in the heavier weight classes, putting more emphasis on defense and the subtler aspects of the sweet science.
Misconceptions
Known for its speed and technical skill, featherweight boxing still provides plenty of knockout potential. One reason for weight classes is to keep power relative. So even though the men competing are smaller, they can still flash knockout power, providing fans with the best of both worlds.
Famous Ties
Featherweight boxing has a proud history with many notable champions. George Dixon was perhaps the first great featherweight champ, holding the world title from 1892 to 1897. Dixon later regained the title in 1898, defeating Solly Smith via disqualification. The featherweight division's greatest champion, however, was Willie Pep. Known for his defensive brilliance, Pep held the world title from 1942 to 1948 and captured it again in 1949. Other significant featherweight champs include Sandy Saddler, Erik Morales, and Juan Manuel Marquez.
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