Extreme weight cutting helps fighters win, we have the proof

Everyone knows weight cutting is a big problem in MMA, but it also produces clear results.

Illustration by BE Art Director Chris Rini

The research is clear—extreme weight cutting can (1) cause kidney damage, (2) increase a fighter’s risk for concussions, (3) make current concussion symptoms worse, and (4) cost a fighter their life. But can it also help fighters win their bouts in the Octagon? Unfortunately, the answer to the last question appe…