SPORTS

The Weight Cut That Went Wrong: A Fighter's Struggle

Las Vegas, USASat Jun 28 2025
A fighter's journey to the UFC ring took a tough turn when Christopher Ewert faced a sudden setback. He was set to fight Jackson McVey at UFC 317, but things didn't go as planned. The problem? Weight. Ewert couldn't make the required weight, and as a result, he was let go from the UFC before he even stepped on the scale. Ewert's coach, Javier Torres, shared the behind-the-scenes struggle. They started the weight cut at 216 pounds and aimed to reach 195 pounds by fight time. But it wasn't easy. They had a tight schedule, with media obligations and travel delays adding to the pressure. They tried everything—running, pad work, sauna sessions, and even mummy wraps—to help Ewert shed the pounds. Despite their efforts, Ewert's body had other plans. Cramps and sleepless nights made the process even harder. They tried to negotiate a catchweight fight, but it wasn't meant to be. By the time the weigh-ins rolled around, Ewert was still over the limit. All their hard work wasn't enough to meet the UFC's requirements. This story raises questions about the extreme measures fighters take to make weight. It's a harsh reminder of the physical and mental toll that weight cuts can have on athletes. While the UFC has rules in place, the pressure to perform can sometimes lead to dangerous situations. It's a tough lesson for Ewert and his team, but it's also a wake-up call for the sport as a whole.

questions

    What are the potential health risks associated with rapid weight loss in athletes?
    Is it possible that the UFC had ulterior motives for not allowing a catchweight fight?
    What specific challenges did Christopher Ewert and his team face during the weight-cutting process?

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