In boxing, lightweight is a weight class that ranges from 130 pounds (59 kg) up to 135 pounds (61.2 kg) . It is one of the 17 weight classes in mens professional boxing. The weight classes are designed to prevent mismatches between opponents, create a safer environment for competitors, and have fair fights. Boxers must weigh in prior to every fight to ensure they do not exceed the upper weight limit for their division. However, boxers may compete above their weight class, for example, when Manny Pacquiao went up against Antonio Margarito for a 154-pound title and weighed under the welterweight limit.