Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) has gained significant attention as one of the most exciting and raw combat sports organizations in the world.
Its rise in popularity has left many fans wondering about the people and entities behind BKFC.
MMA Predictions delves into the ownership, history, and leadership of BKFC, providing everything you need to know when asking, “Who owns BKFC?”
The Founder and Owner of BKFC
BKFC was founded by David Feldman in 2018. Feldman (pictured above), who is a former professional boxer and experienced promoter, remains the principal owner and driving force behind the organization.
His vision was to revive the art of bare-knuckle fighting in a regulated and professional environment, something that had not been done in modern combat sports.
David Feldman’s passion for combat sports and his ability to navigate the complex world of sports promotion played a pivotal role in establishing BKFC.
Under his leadership, the organization quickly gained recognition for its unique approach, high-intensity fights, and commitment to fighter safety within the context of bare-knuckle boxing.
David Feldman’s Background
Before founding BKFC, David Feldman had a career as a professional boxer, competing in the welterweight division.
After retiring from active competition, he transitioned into event promotion, organizing boxing and MMA events. Feldman’s experience in promoting fights gave him the expertise needed to launch BKFC successfully.
His vision for BKFC was to create a platform that would both entertain fans and be respectful of the fighters.
By combining modern production values with the raw essence of bare-knuckle combat, Feldman tapped into a niche market that had long been dormant.
Conor McGregor’s Ownership Stake in BKFC
In April 2024, Conor McGregor, the former UFC dual-weight champion, expanded his ventures into the realm of bare-knuckle boxing by acquiring a minority ownership stake in BKFC. This strategic move was facilitated through his company, McGregor Sports and Entertainment, aligning him with BKFC’s founder and principal owner, David Feldman.
McGregor’s involvement with BKFC has been both promotional and participatory. He has been a prominent figure at BKFC events, such as Knucklemania V, where he was seen engaging with fighters and the audience, enhancing the organization’s visibility.
His presence and endorsement have significantly boosted BKFC’s profile within the combat sports community.
In addition to his promotional efforts, McGregor has been instrumental in BKFC’s strategic initiatives. Notably, he has been involved in the planning of a groundbreaking $25 million tournament, touted as the largest in combat sports history. This tournament aims to attract fighters from various disciplines worldwide, further elevating BKFC’s status in the global combat sports arena.
McGregor’s investment and active participation in BKFC underscore his commitment to the growth and development of bare-knuckle boxing. His influence is expected to drive BKFC’s expansion and innovation in the combat sports industry.
The Role of Feldman’s Team
While David Feldman is the face of BKFC ownership, he is supported by a team of executives and stakeholders who contribute to the organization’s growth.
BKFC’s management includes experts in marketing, event production, fighter relations, and legal compliance, ensuring the company runs smoothly on all fronts.
Additionally, Feldman has partnered with various investors and sponsors to secure funding and expand the organization’s reach globally.
Although specific details about individual investors remain private, their contributions have been instrumental in enabling BKFC to host events in multiple countries and attract top-tier fighters.
Key Partnerships and Sponsorships of BKFC
One of the ways BKFC has strengthened its brand is through partnerships and sponsorships. The organization has teamed up with various companies to enhance its production quality and increase its visibility. These partnerships often include:
- Streaming Platforms: BKFC’s events are available on its proprietary app, BKFC TV, as well as on other major digital platforms.
- Corporate Sponsors: Collaborations with energy drink brands, apparel companies, and sports equipment manufacturers help fund events and promote the sport.
BKFC Expansion and Global Reach
Under Feldman’s leadership, and now with McGregor’s involvement, BKFC has expanded beyond the United States.
The organization has hosted events in countries such as the United Kingdom, Thailand, and Mexico. This global expansion underscores BKFC’s ambition to establish itself as a major player in the world of combat sports.
By signing fighters from diverse backgrounds, including former UFC stars and regional champions, BKFC has attracted a wide audience.
The organization’s ability to blend raw combat with professional presentation has been key to its international success.
The Vision Behind BKFC
David Feldman’s vision for BKFC is to provide a unique and thrilling combat sports experience while respecting the history and traditions of bare-knuckle fighting.
Unlike traditional boxing or MMA, BKFC focuses on quick, action-packed bouts that emphasize skill, power, and heart.
Feldman has also emphasized the importance of fighter safety. Despite the inherently brutal nature of bare-knuckle fighting, BKFC has implemented stringent medical protocols to protect athletes.
Pre-fight and post-fight medical checks are mandatory, and referees are trained to stop fights when necessary to prevent unnecessary harm.
BKFC Controversies and Challenges
Like any emerging sports organization, BKFC has faced its share of controversies and challenges. Critics have raised concerns about the potential dangers of bare-knuckle fighting, arguing that it poses higher risks than other combat sports.
Feldman and his team have consistently defended BKFC, citing their safety measures and comparing their injury rates to those of MMA and boxing.
Additionally, regulatory hurdles have occasionally slowed BKFC’s expansion.
Bare-knuckle fighting is not legal in all states or countries, requiring Feldman and his team to work closely with athletic commissions and government bodies to secure permits and licenses.
What’s Next for BKFC?
BKFC’s future looks promising, with plans for further global expansion and an increasing roster of high-profile fighters. Feldman’s vision, coupled with McGregor’s influence, includes:
- Hosting more international events to tap into new markets.
- Enhancing production values to rival other major combat sports organizations.
- Continuing to innovate with new fight formats and promotional strategies.
With its unique appeal and growing fan base, BKFC is poised to become a household name in combat sports, thanks mainly to David Feldman’s leadership and Conor McGregor’s involvement.
Our Thoughts on BKFC
The ownership of BKFC is a dynamic combination of David Feldman’s visionary leadership and Conor McGregor’s star power and strategic investment.
Together, they have positioned BKFC as a standout organization in the combat sports world.
By blending the raw intensity of bare-knuckle fighting with professional production and a commitment to safety, BKFC continues to grow in popularity and influence.
Whether you’re a seasoned BKFC fan or new to the sport, understanding the ownership and vision behind the organization offers a deeper appreciation for what makes BKFC so unique.
As it continues to grow, all eyes will remain on Feldman, McGregor, and their team as they shape the future of bare-knuckle fighting.
