With global expansion well underway, where will BKFC break ground next?
On September 12th, BKFC will hold its first event in the country of Spain, headlined by Spaniard Franco Tenaglia facing Tony Soto for the vacant lightweight title. A thrilling night of action will take place at the outdoor bullfighting venue, Marbella Arena. This will certainly have a domino effect on not just the rest of Europe but the world BKFC is a real player in the combat sports game. But with that in mind the analyst and the fan in me want to predict/wish for the next place BKFC will set up shop with the squared circle.
1. Australia/ New Zealand
Off the back of UFC 305, I was reminded just how much Oceania loves their combat sports. While I can’t name any bare knucklers from Australia or New Zealand off the top of my head, BKFC wouldn’t need one to have an event there. There would be a lot of moving parts to get them halfway across the world, likely a Mike Perry main event or something to that effect, but given the love these fans have showed in the past, this one has to be on the checklist
2. France
This one is probably a long shot given how late France was to the party on MMA, that being said these rabid fans have left their mark on both the UFC and PFL, but also the WWE took a Premium Live Event there recently and the fans were bonkers. We’re probably still a few years away from this one happening but I’m telling you, when it does, mark your calendars.
3. Japan
This one is likely the most realistic and the one that's next in line given BKFC’s partnership with Rizin FF. Talent swaps have already begun with Tai Emery and John Dodson being among the few who competed on a Rizin card under the BKFC ruleset. It won’t be long before their partnership is taken a step further and we see a co-promoted event or something in that vein.
Bare knuckle is the fastest growing sport in the world, not just combat. And while I trust the BKFC front office to not expand too quickly and spread themselves too thin, I can't wait for Spain and I can’t wait to see where they go next!
Top Photo Courtesy of BKFC.
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