On May 29, Fight Nation Championship (FNC) confirmed that Greg Hardy came in at approximately 291lb for his scheduled heavyweight clash with Darko Stosic, missing the mark by a staggering 25lb. Despite the discrepancy, both camps agreed to press ahead, setting up a 52lb weight difference when Stosic weighed in at 239.8lb.
Historic weight miss ahead of FNC 31 clash
Heavyweight fighters are typically allowed up to 265lb at the official weigh-in, making Hardy’s 291lb reading exceptionally rare in professional MMA. The announcement came as part of FNC’s official weigh-in results on May 29, ahead of the promotion’s event on May 30. Reports from Fight Site’s Igor Fejes first highlighted the figure, emphasising just how unusual it is for a heavyweight to miss by such a margin.
Throughout his ten-fight UFC career, the 37-year-old American – known as ‘The Prince of War’ – had never once failed to make weight, although he did have a victory converted to a no contest after using an inhaler between rounds. His previous bouts ended in a three-fight losing streak, culminating in his UFC release in 2020.
Reaction on social media and opponent agreement
In the run up to the weigh-ins, Hardy shared an Instagram story showing himself on a treadmill with the caption, “Why is there no 285 division.” A day after stepping on the scales, he posted again to celebrate completing the weigh-in, writing: “This trip had been one thing after the other but we made it baby. Weigh-in done and now it’s time to have some fun lol, I am happiness manifested.”
Despite the mismatch, FNC confirmed that Stosic had agreed to proceed with the bout. The Serbian veteran weighed in at 239.8lb, setting up a combined differential of 52lb between the two competitors. FNC did not disclose any additional penalties or purse adjustments relating to Hardy’s miss.
Implications for Hardy’s comeback and heavyweight division
Hardy’s return to MMA follows a year marked by setbacks, including an asthma attack that forced him out of a professional boxing match last November. The former NFL defensive end – whose career in American football ended amid legal controversy – will be keen to secure a second consecutive MMA win after ending his stint in the Octagon with a final victory in 2020.
This weight miss, however, casts fresh questions over his future in heavyweight competition. At 37 years old, and having never competed above 265lb, Hardy’s struggles to hit the limit may prompt discussions about weight management and promotional policies in the division.
For FNC 31, the showdown will go ahead as planned, offering fans a rare spectacle of two ex-UFC athletes set to collide at such divergent weights.
FAQ
How much weight did Greg Hardy miss by?
Hardy stepped on the scale at around 291lb for his heavyweight bout, missing the 265lb limit by approximately 25lb.
What is the weight difference between Hardy and Darko Stosic?
Darko Stosic weighed in at 239.8lb, creating a 52lb difference between himself and Hardy at the official weigh-in.
Will the fight still take place despite the weight miss?
Yes. Fight Nation Championship confirmed that both camps agreed to proceed with the bout, and no cancellation has been announced.
Has Greg Hardy ever missed weight before?
No. Throughout his ten-fight UFC career, Hardy had never failed to make weight, although he did have one victory overturned due to inhaler use between rounds.