The Rise of Bare-Knuckle Boxing
The world of bare-knuckle boxing is rapidly gaining popularity, with a unique blend of adrenaline and brutality that draws both fighters and fans alike. Liam Rees, a 31-year-old bare-knuckle boxer from Swansea, Wales, understands both the thrill and the risks tied to this intense sport. Rees balances his career as a carpenter with his passion for boxing, which often sees him sacrificing time with his two children during training schedules.
Challenges and Commitment
Just recently, he suffered a defeat in a light-middleweight title fight at Cardiff’s Vale Sport Arena, an event that left him bloodied and battered, yet reaffirming his commitment to pursue glory in the ring. His wife, Emma, expressed concern for his safety, urging him to consider stepping away from the sport, but Rees finds it irreplaceable, saying,
“You’ve got so much adrenaline pumping through your body in that ring.”
A Storied History
Bare-knuckle boxing has a storied history, rooted in an ancient form of combat that, after the introduction of the Marquess of Queensberry rules in 1867, became synonymous with illegal street fights. However, this past decade has seen a resurgence of licensed bouts, with statistics indicating a significant increase in sanctioned events, from only 21 in 2015 to over 1,000 in recent years. Rees, who made his debut in this resurgent sport in 2023, aims to leave a legacy for Cardiff and has already become a two-time world champion in the discipline.
Safety Concerns
Despite its growth, the rise of bare-knuckle boxing raises critical safety concerns among experts. Luke Griggs, the chief executive of the brain injury charity Headway, has voiced apprehensions about the increasing glamorization of a sport that entails severe physical risks. A new documentary by BBC Sport delves into the realities and risks faced by competitors in this evolving arena. As the sport creeps into the mainstream consciousness, it attracts an audience that skews younger, particularly Gen Z and millennials, with performances broadcasted to over 60 countries.
Misconceptions and Data
Pioneering figures in the sport’s current iteration, such as David Tetreault, president of Bare Knuckle Boxing (BKB) promotions, contend that many misconceptions exist about the safety of the sport compared to traditional boxing. Although bare-knuckle fights may appear more brutal, data shows lower rates of concussions in bare-knuckle bouts compared to gloved boxing and MMA. Fighters, being mindful of the risks of injury, often refrain from throwing punches with full force, which can mitigate some of the risks associated with brain injuries. Tetreault highlights that 90% of BKB matches conclude with knockouts, a point that attracts a young crowd eager for fast-paced action.
Future of the Sport
Prominent boxing figures, including Lee Selby and Paulie Malignaggi, have transitioned to bare-knuckle boxing amid rising interest. As the first licensed event in the U.S. occurred in 2018, the sport continues to expand dramatically, particularly stateside. Griggs, however, warns that as bare-knuckle boxing gains traction, the potential for it to spill into street fights remains a pressing concern. The sport’s future hinges on its ability to attract major venues and secure high-profile matches.
Looking Ahead
Looking ahead, BKB is poised to make its mark with a lineup of bigger and more significant bouts planned for 2026 in major cities. Meanwhile, Rees’s journey within the sport seems uncertain after his recent loss, as he contemplates a temporary exit from competitive boxing—a hiatus that might redefine his relationship with the sport he loves. As he puts it,
“Let’s say I’m on a long vacation at the minute.”
As bare-knuckle boxing continues its ascent, the question remains: can it navigate the balance between entertainment and safety in this fiercely competitive realm?
