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| (Image Source: BKB Bare Knuckle Boxing) |
BKB Bare Knuckle Boxing, the world’s leading professional bare-knuckle boxing promotion, recently announced the acquisition of Bad To The Bone (BTTB), the longest-running independent bare-knuckle promotion in the United Kingdom. The strategic acquisition further cements BKB’s position as the global leader in bare-knuckle boxing while significantly expanding its footprint and talent pipeline across the UK. BKB Bare Knuckle Boxing has rapidly become the fastest-growing, fighter-first organization in professional bare-knuckle boxing, earning its reputation by prioritizing athlete welfare, career development, and competitive opportunity above all else. That philosophy has fueled the promotion’s global growth and aligns seamlessly with Bad To The Bone which was founded and led by Stefan Hanks for eight years under the same fighter-first ethos.
As part of the acquisition, BKB has completed a comprehensive re-organization of its UK operations. Joe Brown has been appointed Managing Director of BKB UK, overseeing all regional business operations. Hanks will join BKB on a long-term agreement as UK Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Lead Matchmaker, reporting to Brown on UK operations and to Head of Global Fight Operations and Matchmaking Mel Valenzuela on all matchmaking matters. Hanks’ experience, leadership, and deep-rooted commitment to the sport will play a critical role in accelerating BKB’s expansion across the UK. This move represents the latest milestone in BKB’s strategic growth. The organization was originally founded in 2015 as BYB Extreme Fighting Series in South Florida by Mike Vazquez and Dhafir “Dada 5000” Harris, pioneering the modern era of professional bare-knuckle boxing in the United States. On May 8, 2024, BYB acquired the original UK-based Bare Knuckle Boxing (BKB) promotion — the world’s first professional bare-knuckle organization, also founded in 2015. That merger unified American and British bare-knuckle traditions, creating the largest global roster, fight library, and international reach in the sport. In February 2025, the organization officially rebranded as BKB Bare Knuckle Boxing, reflecting its combined heritage and global vision. BKB’s rapid ascent continues under the leadership of CEO David Tetreault, a veteran media and entertainment executive with more than three decades of experience. Tetreault previously served as Chief Business Officer at Golden Boy Promotions — where he negotiated major broadcast deals with ESPN, HBO, and DAZN — and held senior leadership roles with Triller Fight Club and BKFC. He joined BKB in 2025 to help guide its evolution into a premier global combat sports brand.
Mike Vazquez, owner of BKB Bare Knuckle Boxing, said, “This acquisition marks another exciting chapter in BKB’s journey to unite the best of bare-knuckle boxing worldwide. By bringing BTTB’s talented fighters into the BKB family, we’re strengthening our roster and honoring the legacy Stefan has created. Together with Stefan leading as UK COO and matchmaker, we’re set to deliver even bigger, more thrilling events across the UK and beyond.” Tetreault said, “The addition of Bad To The Bone is a natural evolution for BKB as we continue to grow the sport globally. Stefan Hanks has built a fighter-first promotion that’s delivered high-level action and developed real talent for years. We’re excited to integrate their rising stars into our Trigon, and putting them on the biggest possible stages with our upcoming events in major venues like The O2, Wembley Arena, and Manchester Arena. With Stefan on board long-term, 2026 will be our most ambitious year yet – more shows, more fights, and more opportunities to showcase why bare-knuckle boxing is the purest and most exciting form of combat sports.” Hanks said, “Bad To The Bone has always been about putting fighters first and delivering the best bare-knuckle action possible. Joining forces with BKB feels like the perfect next step to elevate our sport even further. I’m proud of the legacy we’ve built over eight years and thrilled to bring our champions and talent to the global BKB stage.”
Looking ahead to 2026, BKB is preparing for its busiest year ever in the United Kingdom. Major events are planned at iconic venues including The O2 in London, Wembley Arena, and Manchester Arena featuring an expanded roster of elite fighters competing inside BKB’s patented Trigon ring. With more shows, more fights, and greater global exposure than ever before, BKB continues to define the future of professional bare-knuckle boxing.
