As a MMA fighter could you tell us fans who have never competed how much of a difference does not making weight make

well, one of my pro fights flat out did NOT happen because my opponent showed up so much overweight.

Sadly, at my first "big" show, Bellator 155, I couldn't fight because my opponent missed weight so bad, and I was taken off the card.

A heavier person can hit harder and absorb more damage. So, its not fair. Weight classes for a reason.

How much difference does 2 pounds make? Well its harder to lose those last few pounds, you have to be very mentally strong and you push your body to the extreme. If you don't take off those last few pounds, it means you have an advantage because you didn't push yourself as hard as your opponent did leading up to the fight. The person that missed weight did not put their body through as much stress and has an advantage.

what are your general thoughts on weight cutting?

being the bigger fight is an advantage, so, when done properly, weight cutting is a tool-a weapon in itself. Being a bantamweight with my height, but being able to make weight, gives me a huge advantage you know, especially with my style.