Bare-knuckle boxing is pushing towards the mainstream, but questions remain about how safe the sport truly is.
For fighters such as Welshman Liam Rees, the risks are clear. “One punch could change your life,” he admits — yet the adrenaline and intensity keep drawing him back. The 31-year-old carpenter became a two-time light-middleweight champion with BKB after making his debut in 2023, balancing family life and a day job with a sport defined by visible damage and fast finishes.
Rapid growth and rising profile
Modern licensed bare-knuckle events have surged over the past decade. According to BoxRec data, the number of sanctioned bouts has climbed from just 21 in 2015 to more than 1,000 worldwide last year. Promotions such as Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship and BKB now stage events across multiple countries, with growing broadcast deals and social media traction.
Former world boxing champions including Paulie Malignaggi and James DeGale have crossed over, lending credibility and drawing curiosity from traditional boxing audiences. Promoters argue that shorter fights — typically a maximum of six three-minute rounds — reduce prolonged punishment compared with 12-round gloved contests.
Safer than boxing? The debate continues
A 2025 study from the Association of Ringside Physicians found lower concussion rates in bare-knuckle bouts compared with gloved boxing and MMA, but significantly higher rates of facial lacerations. Supporters claim the absence of gloves limits how hard fighters can strike, potentially reducing repeated head trauma.
However, critics such as brain injury charity Headway warn that the sport inherently revolves around causing head damage. Medical experts also stress that long-term neurological effects often take decades to emerge, making definitive conclusions difficult.
As BKB plans events in larger venues in 2026, the sport’s leaders believe mainstream acceptance is within reach. Yet for fighters like Rees — currently in “semi-retirement” after losing his title — the personal cost remains front of mind.
Bare-knuckle boxing may be expanding rapidly, but whether it can balance spectacle with safety remains an open question.
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