Why is height so important in the heavyweight division?

Ok, so I admit this may be a dumb question, but why does height seem to be so important in the heavyweight division these days, when it isn't nearly as much of a factor in other divisions. We regularly see shorter guys beat taller guys in the lighter weight classes. But in the heavyweights, even when the weights are basically the same, the taller guy seems to have a huge advantage. Is it just because the height differentials are greater in the heavyweights? Or maybe because they have more power so guys have to be more careful when trying to close the distance?

 

In the HW division, height gives you extra reach without the need to cut weight. In lower weight divisions, if you're taller it means you have to cut more weight for the weight-in. HW division is the only division where you get reach through height for no penalty through dieting/cutting.

 

Usually in the hw division the taller fighter outweighs by 20 pounds the smaller fighter! The the huge difference!

I have always said there should be a super hw divion! It doesn't make it fair

 

Yeah, that definitely makes sense. I guess I wasn't really thinking about the weight cutting factor and how it can really drain guys in the lower weight classes. Still, I wonder why height seems to be such a bigger factor now than it was in past eras when smaller heavyweights were much more successful. There were 6' 6' guys back then too but they usually weren't very skilled and their height was the only thing going for them. I guess maybe it's just the natural evolution of sports.

 

That's the only division where you can gorge like a pig during training! LOL!

 

HW is not the only division where height is important. Height is important in every single division. The taller you are, the easier the combat. Way way way easier.

 

Only in the heavyweight division. Only advantage in lighter weight is reach.

 

There is a height class in the heavyweight division now? Wait there isn't a height class but there is a weight class. As long as you are 6'2 and over and over 205 pounds you can be a great heavyweight.

 

Not too many 6.2 , 205lb heavys are successful these days black kitten.

 

It's not the be and end all but sure helps. Tyson Fury the most obvious example

 

Height doesn't matter in boxing even at heavy.

 

But big hands sure do.

 

Tyson was short, Marciano was short, it all depends on the boxer who can take advantage of his size, Tyson used his height by being short, Cus taught him how to take advantage, watch Tyson in his prime, it takes timing. Marciano did the same thing, he trained harder than everyone else, had a good trainer as well. Look at all the tall fighters who have lost their careers, Price for example, Michael Grant.............Julius Long............

 

"only advantage is reach"? have you ever fought? reach is everything, dude.

 

The last time you could be a great heavyweight at 6'2 and 205 was in the 90s.