At a recent press conference dubbed the BKFC Champions Summit, Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship co-owner Conor McGregor positioned himself squarely at the forefront, delivering updates with the kind of confident authority one might expect. Known for his ability to command attention, McGregor utilized the platform to make several significant announcements that signal BKFC`s ambitions for expansion and star power.
Central to the news was the confirmation of Mike Perry`s return to the bare-knuckle ring. Perry, affectionately (or perhaps ironically) known as “The King of Violence” and a popular figure within BKFC, has been absent since April 2024, having stepped away for a boxing match earlier this year. His return date is now officially set for October 11th.
However, the announcement came wrapped in a reminder of the promotional hierarchy. Addressing Perry directly during the summit, McGregor didn`t mince words regarding his role as co-owner. “You’re welcome back because I welcomed you back,” McGregor stated, before adding with characteristic swagger, “Oct. 11 is your date, and you’ll dance for me, boy. You’ll dance for the owner, and then we can talk.” This exchange, delivered with McGregor`s signature blend of playful dominance and business assertiveness, highlighted his influence over the promotion`s roster moves, even for its established stars.
Perry, for his part, seemed open to the dynamic, having previously expressed interest in a potential bare-knuckle showdown with McGregor himself. While that high-profile bout remains a future possibility, McGregor made it clear Perry must first navigate his upcoming challenge on October 11th. The opponent for Perry`s return bout is currently undisclosed but was teased by McGregor as a “UFC veteran.” The mystery surrounding this opponent adds an immediate layer of anticipation to Perry`s return fight.
Beyond the headline-grabbing interaction with Perry, the BKFC summit also served as the stage for unveiling a substantial wave of new fighter signings. The promotion is clearly aiming to bolster its ranks with experienced talent from across combat sports. Among the most notable names joining the BKFC roster is former UFC middleweight title challenger Yoel Romero. At 48, Romero continues to compete at a high level, and his transition to bare-knuckle fighting is a compelling development.
Another former UFC title contender making the switch is Thiago Santos, known for his powerful striking. Santos will look for a fresh start in the bare-knuckle format. The list of new acquisitions also includes established UFC veterans Derek Brunson and Aspen Ladd, adding depth from the mixed martial arts world. Furthermore, former professional boxing world champion James DeGale has also signed with BKFC, signifying the promotion`s continued interest in integrating boxing talent.
These signings, spanning multiple weight classes and backgrounds in MMA and boxing, collectively represent a significant expansion of BKFC`s fighter pool. With Conor McGregor publicly backing the promotion and a roster increasingly populated by recognizable names from major combat sports organizations, BKFC appears to be strategically positioning itself for increased visibility and intriguing matchups as it continues to grow within the combat sports landscape.
