Definition

1. Noun:
   • A weight class in combat sports: A category for competitors who fall within a specific weight range, heavier than welterweight but lighter than light heavyweight.
   • A competitor in this weight class: An athlete, such as a boxer or wrestler, who competes in the middleweight division.

Usage and Examples

• Noun:
  • The champion defended his title against a tough challenger in the middleweight division.
  • She moved up from welterweight to become a dominant force at middleweight.
  • The fight card features several exciting middleweight bouts.

Advanced Usage

• "To campaign as a middleweight": To compete professionally within the middleweight weight class.
  • After struggling to make weight, he decided to campaign as a middleweight.
• "Middleweight contender": A fighter who is ranked highly and is considered a potential challenger for the middleweight championship.
  • He is the number one middleweight contender and will likely get a title shot next.

Variants and Related Words

• Cruiserweight (n): A weight class in boxing, heavier than light heavyweight but lighter than heavyweight.
• Welterweight (n): The weight class immediately below middleweight.
• Light heavyweight (n): The weight class immediately above middleweight.

Synonyms

• Division (in this specific sporting context): A weight category in fighting sports.
• Weight class: The general term for categories based on competitor weight.

Notes on Different Meanings

The specific weight limits for "middleweight" can vary between: 1. Professional Boxing: Typically between 155 and 160 pounds. 2. Amateur Boxing/Olympics: Typically a maximum of 165 pounds. 3. Wrestling: Typically between 172 and 192 pounds. 4. Other Sports (e.g., MMA, Judo): The defined weight range may differ from the above standards. The core meaning remains an intermediate weight class.

Noun

1. a professional boxer who weighs between 155 and 160 pounds
2. a wrestler who weighs 172-192 pounds
3. an amateur boxer who weighs no more than 165 pounds