Mike Perry is set to return to the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) on October 4, 2024, where he will face fellow fighter and UFC veteran Jeremy Stephens. This matchup headlines the inaugural BKFC event in Newark, New Jersey, marking a significant occasion for the promotion as it expands its reach into new territories.
The announcement was made during an episode of The Ariel Helwani Show, confirming Perry’s much-anticipated return to the bare-knuckle arena. Known as the “King of Violence,” Perry has become a prominent figure in BKFC since joining the promotion. His last fight in this format occurred in April 2024, where he secured a decisive victory against former UFC title challenger Thiago Alves, finishing the bout just one minute into the first round. This victory improved Perry’s bare-knuckle record to an impressive 5-0, with prior wins including notable finishes over former UFC champions Eddie Alvarez and Luke Rockhold.
After his triumph over Alves, Perry ventured into boxing, where he faced Jake Paul but suffered a sixth-round technical knockout. Following that defeat, he has been eager to return to BKFC, making his upcoming fight against Stephens a highly anticipated event.
On the other hand, Stephens has also made a name for himself in the bare-knuckle scene, boasting a perfect record of 3-0. His most recent victory came in January when he defeated Alves as well. However, after that bout, Stephens returned to the UFC for an event held in his home state of Iowa, where he faced Mason Jones but ultimately lost by decision. Now, as he re-enters BKFC, Stephens aims to build on his already impressive record and establish himself as a formidable opponent in this aggressive fighting format.
The clash between Perry and Stephens promises to be an exciting encounter, showcasing the intensity and raw energy that bare-knuckle fighting is known for. Fans can expect a thrilling showdown as both fighters look to assert their dominance in this evolving sport. As the date approaches, anticipation builds for what is sure to be a memorable night in Newark.
