Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship to make history with Dubai debut

History is in the making as Dubai welcomes the greatest two-day pure combat event, BKFC (Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship), powered by World League of Fighters, in association with the Dubai Sports Council.

Scheduled for April 4-5 at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium, the event promises an electrifying showcase of combat sports action, with 44 world-class fighters competing in high-stakes matchups.

Doors will open at 7pm on both days, setting the stage for two unforgettable nights of fierce battles.

Welsh mixed martial artist John Phillips, renowned for his tenure in the UFC middleweight division, is set to enter the bare-knuckle ring in Dubai.

Phillips, a seasoned mixed martial artist who competed in multiple UFC bouts between 2018 and 2020, is set to make his return to the cage in a highly anticipated showdown. He will take on the formidable Brazilian powerhouse, Fabio Maldonado, in a thrilling battle within the 205 lbs Cruiserweight division.

Maldonado, a veteran of the UFC’s light heavyweight and heavyweight divisions from 2009 to 2016, is renowned for his incredible toughness, durability, and exceptional boxing skills. With years of experience facing elite competition, he has built a reputation as a relentless striker who can absorb punishment and keep moving forward. His iron chin and relentless pressure make him one of the most dangerous opponents in the division.

On the other hand, Phillips brings his own unique set of skills, combining a well-rounded MMA game with explosive power and strategic precision. His past performances inside the octagon have proven his ability to adapt to different styles, making him a dangerous and unpredictable fighter.

With both fighters known for their striking abilities and warrior spirit, this matchup promises to deliver fireworks from the opening bell. Fans can expect an intense battle where every punch, kick, and counter could shift the momentum at any moment.

The clash between Phillips and Maldonado is shaping up to be a must-watch contest, as two battle-hardened warriors step into the cage to prove their dominance in the Cruiserweight division.

Adding to the excitement, global MMA superstar Conor McGregor is set to make a surprise appearance at the event. While details about his involvement remain under wraps, his presence will undoubtedly amplify the event’s prestige.

Starzplay, will exclusively stream Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship’s debut. The highly anticipated event will be broadcast live from the Dubai Duty-Free Tennis Stadium, offering fight fans two nights of intense bare-knuckle action.

David Feldman, Founder & President of BKFC, expressed his enthusiasm for bringing the championship to Dubai, stating: "We’re bringing the raw intensity and pure athleticism of bare-knuckle fighting to one of the world’s most dynamic sporting destinations. The response from the fighting community and fans has been overwhelming, and we’re proud to showcase our sport at this level.”

Rajesh Banga, Manager of World League of Fighters, echoed this excitement, emphasizing Dubai’s role as a global hub for combat sports: "Dubai has always been at the forefront of hosting world-class sporting events, and BKFC’s debut here is no exception. We’ve carefully curated an experience that goes beyond just fights—it’s about creating memorable moments for fans and showcasing the technical brilliance of bare-knuckle combat."

The Dubai Sports Council also reinforced its commitment to supporting this landmark event, stating: "Hosting the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship aligns perfectly with Dubai’s vision of becoming the world’s premier destination for combat sports. This event provides local combat sports enthusiasts with an exclusive opportunity to witness this unique discipline at the highest level.”