Jamahal Hill weight gain sparks fan concern over heavyweight move

Former UFC heavyweight/" class="internal-link text-bone underline decoration-ash/30 hover:decoration-gold underline-offset-2">light heavyweight champion Jamahal Hill's latest physique update has sparked concern among fans following his announced move to heavyweight.

Hill, who posted three consecutive losses at 205 pounds, revealed on Instagram Stories a physique that led some observers to suggest his career trajectory has taken a troubling turn, per MMA Mania. The 35-year-old fighter told reporters after his most recent defeat that he entered his last three camps weighing between 260 and 265 pounds, forcing him to split focus between weight management and skill development.

Why Hill is moving to heavyweight after title run

"I cannot spend camp trying to make weight when I have to focus on improvement as well as strengthening in places that I'm weak with injury and things like that," Hill said following his third straight setback. The Chicago native admitted he needs to overhaul his approach between fights. "I have to apologize to people that have supported me and have to be better," he added. "I have to be better with how I take care of my body, how I work to improve and stay sharp with my body and with my skills."

Hill captured the vacant light heavyweight strap in January 2023 but has struggled since, dropping decisions that put his roster spot in jeopardy. The recent Instagram clip, showing a noticeably heavier frame, raised questions about whether his conditioning will translate to success at heavyweight.

No debut date has been set for Hill's first appearance in the UFC's 265-pound division.

Reported via:

• MMA Mania — Jamahal Hill weight gain has UFC fans concerned about ‘sad’ transition to heavyweight — ‘Career is over’