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Rashad Coulter and Jordan Mitchell clash at BYB 17: Brawl at Rock Hill on May 13th.

This is the sophomore bare-knuckle boxing bout for ‘Daywalker’ as Coulter looks to pick up his second win under the BYB Extreme banner on subsequent cards.

The pugilistic proceedings broadcast on combatcast.tv/byb and the show will kick-off at 7 PM EST.

Coulter spoke with Dylan Bowker of Bare Knuckle News before this heavyweight collision. Excerpts from the chat are below.

Rashad Coulter

It seemed like in your BYB debut there was at least an initial perception of a controversy. Is everything squared away there between yourself and Quentin Domingos following BYB 16?

“Yeah well for me it’s over with because on my record it says that I won first-round TKO. So for me, it’s over with but after going back and watching the fight, I still just see where I won clean. So they haven’t said anything to me about it. I understood that they were trying to protest it as a no-contest. Whatever; whatever the case may be, that doesn’t matter to me. But what I was saying to his corner and his coach at the end of the fight was hey, man what are you talking about?”

“Let’s look at the replay because at first, the controversy for them was first they tried to say I poked him in his eye. Then after they tried to say I poked him in his eye, then they tried to say I hit him when he was down. So I was going back and forth with his corner like hey, man, which one is it? Was it an eye poke or did I hit him when was down? He was holding his neck. At first, that’s why I didn’t hit him when he first bent over because he was holding his neck.”

BYB Extreme

Rashad Coulter continued, “I thought something wrong with the dude. So I was just being respectful. So it’s over for me but I asked him do you want a rematch? Do you guys want to fight again? What do you want to do? Never did he ever say yes and the ref asked him four times do you want to keep fighting? He never answered the ref. So I won. That’s all I’m concerned about.”

Photo Credits: BYB Extreme / Pawel Drazkowski

Rashad Coulter vs Jordan Mitchell

This would seem like a good fight to have lined up because your opponent previously contended for BYB heavyweight gold. It strikes me as a fight that could vault you towards contending for that belt if you get your desired outcome. What were your initial thoughts when this Jordan Mitchell bout offer came your way?

“Man, it was funny because that was one of the first fights that I watched in BYB. Of course DJ Linderman then I saw the Tony Lopez and Jordan Mitchell fight. I was like, man, obviously they had some beef, so. Then I watched his other fights as well. He’s very aggressive, he has heart. He’s a great opponent for me because we both want to be alpha males in there and we both want to take dominion. So we about to see, man. We about to see.”

Rashad Coulter went on to say, “But honestly, I just think that I have a bigger heart and I think that I’m the far better fighter than he is. That doesn’t take away from his toughness. That don’t take away from his ability to knock people out. But I just feel like I’m a better fighter and I’ve been more tested all around. But I appreciate him, you know what I’m saying? I thank him for signing the contract. I thank him for wanting to test himself. Have much respect for him.”

BYB 17

Are you looking at this fight as something that could put you in line for DJ Linderman’s title?

“One hundred percent. I’m in the conversation and I’m calling it. After I win this fight, DJ Linderman, I’m taking that belt from you too. So he will be my next fight. I will be fighting for a title after this fight. So I mean, I am in the talks. I am that guy. I will be the BYB heavyweight champion.”

Parting thoughts for Rashad Coulter

“I’m just thankful. I’m thankful to BYB Extreme for giving me the opportunity. Very thankful for these guys. They treat me very well, they’re very transparent. So I’m thankful for them. Man, I’m thankful for my wife. I love my wife, she’s my wife-ager. Which is to say I don’t take any fights unless I run it through her. All my training partners up here… I’m just grateful. I’m just thankful. Both of my sons, man, I love them to death, so. I thank you for giving me the opportunity to do the interview. I appreciate it and it means a lot to me.”

The post Rashad Coulter on Jordan Mitchell Bout at BYB 17: “Far Better Fighter Than He Is” appeared first on Bare Knuckle News.

Blake LaCaze clashes with Doug Coltrane at BKFC 42: Soto vs. Goodjohn in the Co-Main Event on May 12th.

This will be the third BKFC bout in LaCaze’s career as he ascends to the co-headliner on this Greenville, SC extravaganza.

The pugilistic proceedings broadcast on Fite TV as well as the Bare Knuckle TV app, and the fistic fireworks kick off at 8 PM EST.

LaCaze spoke to Dylan Bower of Bare Knuckle News before this bout. Excerpts from the chat are below.

Blake LaCaze

You talked about Doug Coltrane being a taller opponent and that this is a key fight in terms of moving up the middleweight hierarchy. What was your temperament when this bout offer came your way?

“Man, I was already full-fledged ahead coming off of my last win. We got offered this with my management. They gave me the name and I was full-fledged, all steam ahead for this fight. I knew what was at stake and what I could accomplish with a big win coming off of this fight. But I’m not looking past Coltrane at all. This is gonna be probably my hardest test. This is gonna be his hardest test.”

Blake LaCaze continued, “We’re gonna come in there and shoot missiles at each other and try to drop bombs. We both know it’s make or break like we just said, who’s gonna get the push, and we both know what’s at stake. So this is going to be a very entertaining and exciting fight.”

You seem to see benefits to this fight being at middleweight. Why is competing in that weight category optimal for you?

“Our range is going to be the gameplan and another thing we’re liking is this fight’s going to be at ’75. It’s not going to be at ’85 normally where Coltrane’s at. He’s coming down in weight. I’ve held my weight really good so far this camp. I’m walking around at ’77, ’78 right now. So I’m going to be right on weight (later this) week. I’m just ready to put on a show for BKFC, man. I’m not in the co-main, he’s not in the co-main for nothing.”

Blake LaCaze vs Doug Coltrane

Largely you were fighting between 172 pounds and 198 pounds in gloved boxing. Is 175 pounds the optimal, sweet spot for you weight-wise?

“Oh absolutely. So when I fight at 175, I feel like I’m the strongest at that point. Because that’s the lowest I can really get. I know I said I held my weight at ’77 for this camp but on a normal basis even if I’m in a boxing camp and my previous bare-knuckle bouts, I walk around at 200/ 203 pounds. Then I drop my weight cut the week before the fight and get down to 175.”

Blake LaCaze continued, “But when I’m at ’75 I feel my strongest versus when I’m fighting at like 190 or 200 where I’m basically fighting a heavyweight when it comes that night. So yeah, I always like to fight the lowest I can and try to use my attributes and my strengths to my advantage.”

BKFC 42

Could you see this being a fight that could vault you toward competing against a top-five-ranked opponent next?

“Oh absolutely. I feel the sense of like the push that I may get off of this fight. So I know that Dave Mundell’s the middleweight champion right now. I’ve heard that he’s going to be in attendance that night. I need a big win. I’d like my title shot, man. I feel I’m well earned of it. Fought nothing but top guys since I’ve been in BKFC.”

Blake LaCaze continued, “I’ve prevailed and I’m looking to prevail this next fight. I want a title shot, for sure. If it’s not a title shot, I want a contender shot. Just whatever I can get to get me closer to that belt. I can’t look past Coltrane. He’s in my way right now with that and I have to take care of that Friday.”

Photo via @blakelacaze on Instagram

BKFC

Do you have a predominant visualization of how this fight is going to play out with Doug Coltrane?

“I always like to tell people fighting is like court. You never know how that’s gonna turn out. I never liked to say what I’m going to do because you never know what you’re going to do. I know what I’m capable of and I know what I’ve trained my butt off for. Know what’s at stake. I’m not just coming up to South Carolina to lose. Not going to step into that ring to lose, that’s not even an option. I’ve got a lot at stake and it’s riding on me. There’s nothing personal, me and Doug have no beef, nothing.”

“This is just a complete business fight. I’m gonna have to hate the man for ten minutes in the ring and then I can be friends with him afterwards. But other than that, this is business and he’s in my way. So when the story unfolds, it’s going to be two tall fighters in the middleweight division. It’s going to be the tall giant, big guy, the ‘Big Boy’. Imma prevail, I’m gonna win this fight.”

Blake LaCaze continued, “Doug said a few things. I haven’t really mentioned nothing back. Nothing, just social media beef. I’m not into that stuff. That’s the easy part is talking. He got that over with, now you’ve got to get in the ring and do it. So that’s where I’m at.”

The post Blake LaCaze: “Gonna Be (Doug Coltrane’s) Hardest Test” at BKFC 42 appeared first on Bare Knuckle News.

Jamie Driver challenges for Jozette Cotton’s BYB super welterweight and Police Gazette world diamond belts at BYB 17: Brawl at Rock Hill on May 13th. The dual-title throwdown emanates from Rock Hill Sports & Event Center in Rock Hill, South Carolina.

‘The Red Queen’ has stormed onto the scene en route to this bid for a pair of coveted bare-knuckle boxing championships.

The pugilistic proceedings broadcast on combatcast.tv/byb and the show will kick-off at 7 PM EST.

Driver spoke to Dylan Bowker of Bare Knuckle News before this title bid. Excerpts from the chat can be found below.

Jamie Driver

You made history in your last fight by being part of the first women’s bare-knuckle boxing bout in the UK. Can you speak to the totality of that experience?

“So, you know, I don’t mean to downplay that experience. I mean it’s phenomenal looking back but at the moment, I was actually going through a really rough time. So I really didn’t enjoy any of it. I didn’t want to be there; with stuff I had going on. But after the fight, yes and looking back it was an amazing experience.”

Jamie Driver continued, “Being dubbed one of the first females along with Sonya Dreiling to fight on a legal bare-knuckle boxing card in the UK and then I come out the victor, that’s amazing. London was beautiful though. My coach and I, we explored London for like ten hours. I definitely would love to go back, that’s for sure.”

Jamie Driver vs Jozette Cotton

What are your thoughts on Jozette Cotton’s resume and stylistic attributes?

“I know I’m working the hardest I possibly can. I’m not leaving any stones unturned. I don’t want to say that in any fight camp that I ever did. But my last fight camp I can’t lie, I barely trained (laughs). But this fight camp is very different, my mindset is very, very different. I’m very focused. She’s tough, we’re both 2-0. So we both technically are the top, the best female welterweight fighters in bare-knuckle in the world right now. I know she’s tough and she comes to fight, she doesn’t back down.”

“So I’m making sure that every day whether I’m training physically or training mentally, I’m on point. But I’m taking her very serious. This fight is very, very important for me…. She’s tough and she’s also sneaky. She switches stances a lot. Keeps her hands down which a lot of fighters do not do. So her punches, they’ll kind of come at you a little blind. She’s caught every girl she’s fought with sneaky blindsided punches. She’s tough, I know she’s clapped both women she’s fought with some strong punches.”

Jamie Driver continued, “Yeah, I know that I’m going to be prepared to go to war with her. Because I mean she’s tough but I’m also tougher. But yeah we’ll see what happens (laughs).“

BYB 17

The BYB Extreme title represents the present and as an extension the future of this sport. Also though, the Police Gazette title has that rich lineage underpinning it; having the deepest history of any hardware in combat sports. Is there a certain level of importance on either of these belts or are they commensurately important to you?

“I mean I can’t lie, to be honest, I mean they both kind of mean the same to me. I hope that doesn’t disrespect anybody (laughs). But you know I mean for me personally, it’ll just be an amazing task and feat to accomplish and take both of those belts. So it means the world. So I’m excited.”

Jamie Driver continued, “I mean regardless, I hope at least, if I can get my name in the history books as one of the most baddest female bare-knuckle boxers in the world at one time. To just; hopefully with my journey and my fight career can inspire and help other female fighters in the long run. That will make me the happiest than ever winning belts though, to be honest.”

Photo credit to @bybextreme on Instagram

BYB 17: Brawl at Rock Hill

Parting thoughts for Jamie Driver

“Oh I appreciate that, thank you so much. You know, I just want to say thank you to my team at DS (Derik Santos) Boxing. My family, friends, all my supporters, and sponsors. Just thank you. Thank you for your continued support in this journey. Thank you for this lovely interview. I had a fun time, definitely looking forward to talking in the future. I just hope everybody tunes in May 13th and watches me win the belts.”

The post Jamie Driver “Prepared to Go to War” With Jozette Cotton at BYB 17 appeared first on Bare Knuckle News.

Jozette Cotton defends her BYB super welterweight and Police Gazette world diamond belts against Jamie Driver at BYB 17: Brawl at Rock Hill on May 13th. It’s been quite the intriguing road for ‘The Number One Head Busta’ to get to this point.

The pugilistic proceedings broadcast on combatcast.tv/byb and the show will kick-off at 7 PM EST.

Cotton spoke to Dylan Bowker of Bare Knuckle News before this first defense of her championships. Excerpts from the chat can be found below.

Jozette Cotton

This would seem to be a big one being that it’s the first defense of the pair of titles you now possess. When did this bout offer initially get on your radar?

“I would say when I was asked we figured Jamie would be next. Just looking at the roster that we got now, the girls winning, and stuff like that. So we figured she would be next. We just didn’t know when. Actually, I thought that we might be able to be on that Thailand card. Mel (Valenzuela) was saying that he was getting to get some people to go out there. Then they had another show. So I’m like when’s my time coming up?”

“I talked to Mel probably early February and that’s when we figured out that it was true; gonna be Jamie, but was going to undergo a surgery with her hands from her last fight. So we knew we had to push that back in time for healing and all that good stuff. I guess they were pretty much working around her injuries and when we could actually set up a date. So I guess with that surgery and everything being done and the weeks with healing, they set it up for May 13th.”

BYB Extreme

Made history last time out by being the first woman to fight in London for a bare-knuckle boxing title. Cemented yourself as the inaugural BYB champion in that weight category, while also capturing the Police Gazette belt which is richly steeped in tradition. Can you describe how that moment felt?

“It was amazing, you know. Wherever you’re at, I feel like a real true fighter’s goal is to be the top of that promotion in whatever aspect it is. So to be able to be out of the country to be able to do what I’m going to do. No matter what, where I’m at or what promotion, it was a blessing that I got to do it somewhere else. I think for me being a champion is awesome but to say that you are the only one in London because the women didn’t fight at all.”

“Then Driver and them were the only women that fought like that hit different. As far as being able to fight, as far as the sex discrimination and sports discrimination between men and women. So for me, it was such a blessing to be able to be down there and to do that. For me to have my name cemented that I was the first and then to be the second-ever girl fight and then the first-ever champion was just like; it was amazing.”

Jozette Cotton continued, “It was an amazing feeling. So I’m hoping that it’s changing and that more fights are going to go out in London. But it was just so; wow, around the world like this isn’t happening. Then I get to do this here where it was never happening, it was surreal.”

BYB 17

What aspects of what Jamie Driver brings to the table made it obvious to you that it would be the first title defense?

“As far as politics, so she’s the only one that’s still undefeated. She’s basically fought the opponents that was pretty much in our weight classes. So we didn’t get to meet each other but pretty much the people I competed with next to the people she competed with being in the same weight class, you know, we were next up. Her skillset, I don’t know if she ever boxed but her boxing doesn’t look bad at all. Her boxing, her setup, her stance, the way she delivers her punches and stuff, you know she’s very skilled.”

“So she’s an aggressor. She’s very aggressive and she makes sure she’s not backpedaling and stuff like that. Those skill sets and stuff like that make for exciting fights. Especially when you have both of those people that walk people down. That are the aggressor, that want to not necessarily try to take it to the judges to decision and try to get after it. So I’m excited about that aspect of what she brings to the table.”

Jozette Cotton vs Jamie Driver

Are you hyper focused on a particular outcome in this Driver fight?

“Yes, I want the finish but like I said, I’m just not going to force it. I know a lot of things. You get hurt when you try to force things that aren’t coming to you. You know one thing I am is I’m a flow-er. I believe in the Bruce Lee, I’m a Pisces. So I float, I stay in that water, I’m trying to ride that tide, and I don’t want to force anything or to do anything. But this fight, I am going for the finish. Every fight I am but I feel like I’m going to do it in a way this time and I think Jamie is the opponent that’s going to give me that.”

Jozette Cotton continued, “I thought that (Miranda) Barber was going to give it to me and then she kind of lapsed on me. Tried to fight like me and try be a counter striker and all this stuff. So she didn’t come as forward as I thought she would. I’m hoping Jamie stays Jamie and gives me everything that I need. So that I can get this finish this fight.”

The post Jozette Cotton: Jamie Driver “Going to Give Me (a KO)” at BYB 17 appeared first on Bare Knuckle News.

Doug Coltrane battles Blake LaCaze at BKFC 42: Soto vs. Goodjohn in the Co-Main Event on May 12th. Coltrane looks to go 3-0 in BKFC in his next bout in Greenville, SC

The pugilistic proceedings broadcast on Fite TV as well as the Bare Knuckle TV app, and the fistic fireworks kick off at 8 PM EST.

Coltrane spoke to Dylan Bowker of Bare Knuckle News prior to this co-headlining attraction. Excerpts from the chat are below.

Doug Coltrane

You’re jumping up from the opening card bout last time out to the co-main event here. Is that something you put a certain level of stock into at least as far as something indicating career advancement?

“Well, man. I was a little surprised to jump to the co-main event. But yeah, it just felt like a dream a little bit. The moment that I’d seen that it just gave me more motivation and then BKFC 41 pops off. Crazy, just going viral, and everything. The promo to BKFC 42 being played all night on that. Man, everything, it’s just been unreal. It’s just fed fire to the fuel, man. I’ve been busting my butt, man. To let everybody know who Doug ‘Coldred’ Coltrane is, man. May 12th, I plan to do that.”

Doug Coltrane vs Blake LaCaze

This contest is at 175 pounds while your prior BKFC fights were at 185 pounds. How much does your camp alter preparing for this 175 drop as compared to some of your earlier fights?

“Well actually the last fight was at 175 and I made 175. My opponent weighed in at 185. He weighed in ten pounds heavy at the weigh-ins. So I went back and hydrated a little bit. Weighed in again so we could fight, so the fight could continue. But yeah, I made 175, I weighed in at 175. As far as camp-wise, I started my diet out about seven weeks out when I signed the contract. I started my diet and then I cut out all the junk. Cut out all the bullcr**

Doug Coltrane continued, “I’m ready to fight now because of that. Just as far as I’m just ready to be back to my old self. Be able to eat what I want to eat or whatever. But nothing changes really. Same thing I did before, man. Just cleaned up what I’m eating and making sure that I’m prepared for the last little weight cut and we in there.”

BKFC 42

What type of work have you been getting in to prepare for the uniquely long and rangey body type as well as stylistic attributes that LaCaze brings to the ring?

“Well I’ve been spread out for this camp and that’s really the thing about North Carolina right now. If you’re not in Raleigh, in Charlotte, or in Wilmington, there’s not really; especially at my level. As far as the early level like if you’re an amateur, then yeah you’ll get the work that you need around here. There’s guys around here that’ll push you. But the level I’m at, the level I’m fighting at as a pro, it just kind of sucks because everything is kind of spread out. Gotta go here there and everywhere.”

“TFTC is my home. That’s where I’ve been for the last eleven years. So definitely I’ve been there at least a couple days of the week I’m there. Actually, I’m a coach at TFTC. So I’m the head coach of the MMA class at TFTC… Then I’ve also been at Elite Martial Arts which is actually right down the street from where I live. I can get there i like five minutes. My head coach, my head cornerman, Carlos Martin, he owns that school. There’s a lot of guys that’s in the UFC that work with him.”

BKFC

“We all meet up at his gym and we train, spar, get ready, and prepare for fights and stuff. Also, I’ve been getting a lot of work at a Muay Thai gym called Kai Thai Academy. It’s in Wilson (North Carolina), they’ve got a whole ring set up. I’ve been going there on Friday nights and they’ve been round robinning me to death. Like putting ten guys, a different guy each round. So I’ve just been spread out everywhere. On the weekend I’ve been going down to (Derek) Brunson’s and training with Brunson and James Brown.”

Doug Coltrane continued, “James Brown just fought on BKFC 41 actually. He beat the WBO former world champ (Mike) Alvarado. James has been a really great sparring partner for me for this fight because James is real long too. He’s got really long arms, he’s really fast, he’s got a really good jab. So me and James have been putting in a lot of work for this fight. So I’ve just been spread out everywhere, man.”

Parting thoughts for Doug Coltrane

“I’m just enjoying it, man. I’m enjoying it. Enjoying the interviews. About to enjoy this moment when we get up to the hotel. Bro, I’m not letting it get to me, man. I’m breathing it all in. Just ready, man. I’m just ready. So I appreciate you too, man. Reaching out to me and talking to me about it.”

The post Doug Coltrane’s on “Dream” Blake Lacaze Co-main Event at BKFC 42 appeared first on Bare Knuckle News.

Tyler Goodjohn and Tony Soto clash in Greenville, SC at the BKFC 42 main event on May 12th.

The pugilistic proceedings broadcast on Fite TV as well as the Bare Knuckle TV app, and the fistic fireworks kick off at 8 PM EST.

Tyler Goodjohn spoke to Dylan Bowker of Bare Knuckle News before this bout. Excerpts from the chat are below.

Tyler Goodjohn

It seems like there’s a bit of banter between yourself and Soto. Is there any kind of backstory here to this bout?

“Yeah, I mean, you know, there’s not really been any real history between us. But, he’s been doing his thing winning and winning by stoppage. He’s creeping up the rankings. So, for me, anyone who’s making a bit of noise I want to take them on. Look, at the end of the day, like I say, the guy’s got some wins on his record – stoppages and everything else. But, he hasn’t fought anyone with any real reputation yet. So, we’re gonna find out what he’s all about, and I’m gonna welcome him to the big leagues of BKFC.”

Photo via BKFC

Tyler Goodjohn vs Tony Soto

This fight reads like Soto taking on his biggest name value yet, while it presents you a chance to reassert yourself in the title hierarchy. Would you say that’s the dynamic for this fight?

“Yeah, a hundred percent. You know, I was actually meant to be fighting on the (Delray Beach) card a few weeks back that got canceled. A few opponents got chucked at me and it was like – my management and everyone wanted me to have a little bit of a like, comeback fight, a little easy fight to get back into. I’ll be honest with you, at this point in my career, those fights do not interest me. They just don’t interest me.”

“To keep motivating me and keep training the way I do, I want to be in legitimate fights against people who are gonna come and have a go. That’s why I contacted BKFC and said, ‘Look this guy’s 4-0. It’s time he stepped up and stop fighting debutants.’ Yeah, coming at it with a real fighter in BFKC. So, yeah, you know, it’s his chance to obviously impress on the big stage and show that he’s the real deal. It’s a chance for me to get back in the winning column, like you say, and get back into title contention.”

BKFC 42

Looking to rebound from losses to dual division champion, Luis Palomino, and current lightweight top contender, James Lilley, those don’t resonate as damaging losses that meaningfully set you back in the title picture. Is that a characterization you share in as far as not losing a significant level of traction in the context of who you lost to?

“No. I mean they were against the pound-for-pound number one, and the number one ranked at 155. So, I mean, you know, it’s not like I’ve lost to nobodies. But, like I say, I want to get back into title contention as quick as possible. I’m not interested in fighting debutants and guys with losing records and things like that. I want to be taking on these unbeaten guys.”

“It puts a pep in my step in training to know I’m going up against these guys that are trying to make waves. Yeah, it’s an interesting fight; it’s a great fight. Like I said, it’s a massive opportunity for Tony.”

BKFC

The last time we actually spoke was before your BKFC debut and it seems like there’s been a great deal of difference in your life since then. Facing sex addiction head-on and leaving the adult film industry, as well as taking pronounced breaks from cannabis. How much has your lifestyle changed from the last time we talked to now?

“I mean to be honest (laughs), I’ve done a complete 360. You know I’ll be the first one to say look, I was in a bit of a tailspin. I mean, what people will have to realize, with my BKFC debut, I come over in the middle of the pandemic. Had to quarantine in a different country to get into the US. I couldn’t take any type of training team with me. I mean, I had done it all off of my own back. You know what I mean? Was going through a hell of a lot in my personal life.”

Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship

Tyler Goodjohn continued, “I don’t want to make excuses and all that kind of stuff, because at the end of the day, I still got it done. But, I was going through a hell of a lot in my personal life. Yeah, it was like I said. It was a bit of a tailspin really. So, in terms of where I’m at now, I’m a different person. I’m a different person totally. Totally and utterly dedicated to what I’m doing right now. Yeah, you know what, I’ve come off the cannabis which to me was a real big part of my life actually (laughs).”

“I’ve come off it and haven’t been smoking for about fourteen weeks. I was just going through a bad stage with my mental health basically and I’ve really turned it around. I don’t want to sound cliché, but it’s been life-changing this camp – really, really dedicated and sacrificed myself. When I come out with that win on May 12th, it’s going to mean much more to me than just the win itself. I’ve really turned things around in my own life, personal life as well.” 

The post Tyler Goodjohn: “Gonna Welcome Him (Tony Soto) to the Big Leagues” at BKFC 42 appeared first on Bare Knuckle News.

Tony Soto and Tyler Goodjohn clash in the BKFC 42 main event in Greenville, SC on May 12th. 

The pugilistic proceedings broadcast on Fite TV as well as the Bare Knuckle TV app, and the fistic fireworks kick off at 8 PM EST.

This is the sophomore bout of the calendar year for ‘Loco’ who looks to ride his undefeated bare-knuckle boxing run toward championship glory someday.

Tony Soto spoke to Dylan Bowker of Bare Knuckle News before this bout. Excerpts from the chat are below.

Tony Soto

This Tyler Goodjohn fight seemed like one you always saw coming to fruition. Why did you have that perception?

“Well, you know, after my second bare-knuckle fight, I actually wanted to fight Tyler. I thought it would be really good for the fans and I thought it would be a true test to my abilities – help me grow as a fighter as well. But yeah, I asked for this fight a long time ago. I figured if it didn’t happen back then, it was eventually going to happen. I was looking more forward actually to fighting Tom Shoaff, because before even my very first fight, I ran into him in Alabama.”

“…Shook his hand and I said, ‘One day, me and you are gonna fight.’ And, I said it right to his face. I was a little let down after my last bout, where I was told me and him were supposed to knuckle up and it didn’t happen. But, just like the fight, you roll with the punches. You go and get what you got, and I got Tyler. So, I got something out of it.”

Tony Soto vs. Tyler Goodjohn

It seems like you’re looking at this fight as a chance to vault yourself in the lightweight title contender hierarchy. You’re facing a former divisional title contender here, and he regularly trains with current lightweight champ, Luis Palomino. Are you thinking about some of those meritocracy and narrative-minded elements for this fight possibly facilitating a title shot afterward?

“You know, I feel like it would only make sense. When I do become 5-0, you’ve got to think about it organically. I would be, besides Palomino, the only other 155er who started in the organization who’s still undefeated at that level. I feel like it would only be fair for them to give me the title shot, to give me Palomino. If not Palomino, me versus (James) Lilley for the title right there. If he’s not going to defend his 155 (title) and defend his 165, I think that would make the most sense if you ask me.”

“I also think I’m one of the only guys who actually came from tryouts and has been headlining a BKFC card. That’s an eye-opener in itself, you know (laughs).”

BKFC 42

You seem a little nonplussed about your unbeaten bare-knuckle boxing run and are more oriented to continuing to grow further. Do you ultimately look at yourself as the main opponent in a sense?

“Yeah, that’s actually a really good way to put it. I think I am and will always be my own critic. I’m the worst. Like, I look at myself and I find ways to beat myself. Then, when I go and train, I look at those holes that I was doing. I fix them and try to patch those holes. So, it’s to the point where I’m searching for perfection.”

“Nothing in this world is perfect, but if you can sure as hell try your best to be perfect, damn, man. I want to get at least damn near as close as I can. I feel like by me being my biggest, I’m just the hardest person on myself (laughs). And, I feel like that’s going to cause me to just level up every time – get better and better. I feel like if I continue to do that, then I’ll reach a level that’s just beyond belief.”

BKFC

Parting thoughts for Tony Soto

“Yeah, you know, I think it’s a true blessing just to even be on this stage and fighting – just doing what I love; like, I love doing this. It’s fun and I enjoy it. That’s what separates me from a lot of these fighters. I think these guys got into fighting. I was born into this s**t. I was legit born into this. Didn’t choose it, it chose me. That’s why I genuinely enjoy it because I don’t have to be getting paid for this. I could fight that dude on the street like we could fight in a parking lot. I don’t care.”

“Man, I really do truly appreciate everybody who has supported my journey, who has hated on my journey; because, even though those people who are hating, they are still tuning in to watch. So, by you watching, you’re still giving me views (laughs). So yeah, regardless, man, I’m just so appreciative, man. I’m just so appreciative, and I appreciate everyone who has followed me journey and who supports me. That’s pretty much it, brother.”

The post Tony Soto: “Fair for Them to Give Me the Title Shot” With BKFC 42 Win appeared first on Bare Knuckle News.

Ben Rothwell and Josh Copeland collide at BKFC 41: Perry vs. Rockhold on April 29th.

The fistic fireworks broadcast on the BKFC TV App and Fite TV with the main card kicking off at 9 PM Eastern time.

Rothwell spoke to Dylan Bowker of Bare Knuckle News before the fight. Excerpts from the chat can be found below.

Ben Rothwell

The Josh Watson fight fell by the wayside. When did you initially get the word about this Josh Copeland fight being brought into the picture?

“Well, I got told Watson was out five minutes before the fight happened. Some were kind of saying injuries, stuff like that. The truth is he said he didn’t agree to fight in Denver. That part of it was kind of upsetting because three weeks prior to the press conference we were announced, and it was
Denver. We were on a poster, me and him. So, I don’t understand that. He says they flipped the script on him. That he agreed to the fight but not Denver. So, I don’t understand any of that. Doesn’t look good, it is what it is.”
“About two days later, they had decided it was going to be Copeland. Copeland was already on the card, he already had a fight, and he stepped up. Said he wants to fight me. So, he was more excited for that than the other guy they had. Alright then, let’s do this. Yeah, the fight makes sense because I mean, me and him are two guys who could have easily fought each other throughout our tenure.”

Ben Rothwell continued, “When I was in the UFC, him and I were both going through and representing different organizations. Definitely two guys who could have fought earlier before. Here it is, we’re lined up. Now we’re fighting for BKFC in probably the biggest fight card they’ve ever had.”

Photo credit to @rothwellfighter on Instagram

BKFC 41

What are some of Josh Copeland’s better stylistic attributes in your estimation?
“Yeah, I guess from what I’ve watching, I guess he’s here in Colorado. They do work a lot on MMA. So, he’s kind of well-versed at everything. Couldn’t decide, is he a ground guy? Is he this, is he that? I think at the end of the day, he just likes throwing his hands like I do. So, I guess he’s kind of similar in the same aspect. I don’t think he was a big kicker in MMA or anything. I think he kind of got around on his hands. He feels the way I do. BKFC it’s like, oh, that’s all we have to worry about; just throw the hands.”

BKFC

What were the big takeaways from your BKFC debut as you prepare for your sophomore effort with the promotion?
“For me it was necessary. I really wanted to make an impact, I wanted to make myself known. There was a whole group of people that I don’t think really knew much about me. There’s a bare-knuckle group of fans that might have heard of me but never really watched me fight and that was the introduction. As far as moving into my next fight, I just try to get it out of my head, because for me, as an opening goes, that’s like a grand slam. I don’t think there is any redoing that. I don’t think you can really up that one.”

“So, I’m just going to move on and make new highlights – make something new. Exciting to talk about with a tough guy that. I don’t think he’s gonna lay down. He’s not scared; he’s coming in to fight. So, that makes the fight exciting. It seems, in my perspective, that people are more excited about this fight than the (Josh) Watson fight. A lot of the media members were just like, ‘Oh, Watson,’ and they didn’t even think anything of it.”

Ben Rothwell continued, “It was really dangerous for me because I’m like the guy’s big and he’s dangerous. So, I’m supposed to win, but if I don’t, then that’s catastrophic, but if I win, it’s no big deal. So, it’s kind of like a lose-lose situation almost. Copeland – everybody’s like, ‘Oh this is a great fight,’ and they’re excited for it. So, now I feel like I’ve got something to actually win off of this. So, it’s got me more excited.”

Ben Rothwell continued, “It was really dangerous for me because I’m like the guy’s big and he’s dangerous. So I’m supposed to win but if I don’t then that’s catastrophic but if I win, it’s no big deal. So it’s kind of like a lose-lose situation almost. Copeland, everybody’s like oh this is a great fight and they’re excited for it. So now I feel like I’ve got something to actually win off of this. So it’s got me more excited.”

The post Ben Rothwell Aims to “Make New Highlights” at BKFC 41 appeared first on Bare Knuckle News.

Christine Ferea defends her flyweight title against Bec Rawlings at BKFC 41: Perry vs. Rockhold on April 29th.

Christine Ferea

The fistic fireworks broadcast on the BKFC TV App and Fite TV with the main card kicking off at 9 PM Eastern time.

Christine Ferea spoke to Dylan Bowker of Bare Knuckle News before the fight. Excerpts from the chat can be found below.

The Ben Rothwell fight didn’t pan out, but this is a close second, right?

“Absolutely. Yeah, we’re going to steal; They have other main events and a co-main event. But I believe that we will be the real main event and we will steal the show. I feel like this girl, she’s tough and stubborn, and I like that;  because then, I get to actually show some skills and talent – my own grind and what I can do in there in the squared circle.”

Christine Ferea vs Bec Rawlings

You indicated when we last spoke that this Bec Rawlings fight is the one you were gunning for. Does this one check off all the boxes as far as having a skilled opponent who can generate that interest for a blockbuster bout?

“You’ve got to manifest what you want and believe that your hard work and dedication will pay off. I did call for blockbuster fights. I don’t mind fighting other fighters, tough fighters, different… Doesn’t matter where they are at with followers and stuff, but I feel like at this point in my career I do want the bigger names and I do deserve the bigger names to grow my name and grow my brand. I do believe that this girl has been on the highest level of competition.”

“She will have the composure to be able to test me in that way. Every fight for me is the fight of my life, and everybody I’m fighting it’s the fight of their life to change their life. So, I feel like the bigger names at this point make more sense for me. I have a few more years left in my career. I want to make money. I’ve put in the time; I’ve done everything I needed to do. Didn’t cut corners my whole career and I believe it’s my time. I deserve the opportunity to grow myself and my brand for my family.”

BKFC

This fight rewards the long-time fans of BKFC with you debuting at BKFC 3 and Rawlings establishing herself as a multiple belt holder by BKFC 4. How do you feel about this fight finally getting locked in and can you speak to how it has seemingly been on the radar since near the company’s inception?

“I do believe that. I asked for her a long time ago and honestly, she should have took the opportunity then. She had a better chance of beating me then than she does now. I’ve really engulfed myself in boxing and really started to study the science. You know MMA is great. There’s so much talent and so much skill and technique there. But, there’s just a different level in Boxing and the science is real. So, I believe that she’s picked a very tough time to challenge me.”

“I’m the strongest, the smartest, and the fastest I will ever be in my entire career, and it’s at this point right now. I wanted this fight a long time ago, but you’ve got to trust the process. The universe and the promotion knew what they were doing. Everybody else knew what they were doing.”

Christine Ferea continued, “So I’m glad to have this opportunity now on a bigger platform, where BKFC is now, on the biggest fight in the entire history of BKFC. With the names that are on there, I get to fight alongside the legends. I think it’s a perfect time to be able to shine and show what I’m made of.”

BKFC 41

You said you feel like Rawlings wasn’t loyal to her craft, and based on your wording, it seems like you’re referring to her Bellator run before returning to BKFC. Can you expound upon that a bit more?

“Right. Absolutely. She didn’t stay the course. She didn’t see the vision. She didn’t see the growth. She didn’t trust the growth. She didn’t see the vision. When you’re on top and you’re winning, you don’t leave something like that. You don’t vacate a belt; you don’t leave your champion position, and then try to come back claiming it. It’s just entitlement to me. It’s just privilege. She thinks she can just come and go as she pleases. I call her a pillow princess. She’s a pillow princess to me.”

“She wants everybody to do the work and she wants the shine. See the thing is, I’m a workhorse, grind, and I’ve worked for every piece of attention. For every place I have in this game, I have had to grind to the fullest. What she gets in two fights, I get in fifteen fights. So, there’s a difference in mental game, and she’s about to see there’s levels to this shit. She hasn’t seen my level of skill, tenacity, power in the UFC. Nobody in the UFC can touch me.”

Christine Ferea continued, “If they put me in a bare-knuckle fight against anyone in the UFC, my weight class, one above, and one below, I will demolish everybody. She’s about to see that there are levels to this shit. There’s levels to the mental game, physical game, skill game, everything. She doesn’t realize the sacrifice, she doesn’t realize everything that’s coming to her. She waited four years for the build-up and that wasn’t smart for her.”

The post Christine Ferea on the Unusual “Entitlement” and “Privilege” of Bec Rawlings Before BKFC 41 appeared first on Bare Knuckle News.

Chad Mendes clashes with Eddie Alvarez at BKFC 41: Perry vs. Rockhold on April 29th.

The fistic fireworks broadcast on the BKFC TV App and Fite TV with the main card kicking off at 9 PM Eastern time.

Mendes spoke with Dylan Bowker of Bare Knuckle News and excerpts from the chat are below.

Chad Mendes

When did the dialogue really start ramping up for your sophomore BKFC effort?

“Man, after the fight last year, it was in February, my head boxing coach his daughter ended up getting cancer. There was a ton of stuff that kept him out of the gym. So honestly there was a big period where we just didn’t have much time to train then. Honestly, I just wasn’t sure if I was going to fight again in all honesty (laughs) – just going to work with all the other businesses I got and just staying busy that way. I think towards the end of this last year, BKFC started reaching out.”

“It wasn’t until the beginning of this year that the name Eddie (Alvarez) got brought up. Up until then, there was not a ton of motivation for me to do it. But as soon as they mentioned Eddie, and they were going to be signing him, I told them I want to do it. Let’s do this. That’s a fight that gets me excited. That’s a fight that will motivate me to get back in there. Not to mention it’s going to be my biggest payday to date too. So that’s definitely motivating also.”

Chad Mendes continued, “Man, I’m excited. This is a fight that, obviously – I’ve watched Eddie for a really long time. I’ve always liked his style. So, to get in there and fight a guy like this, especially toward the end of my career, this is definitely me winding down. But, if this is my last fight, which is definitely something I’ve talked about, I’m not a hundred percent sure yet. We’ll just kind of see how this one goes. But if it is, this is a way to go out I think… I feel great. This is one of the better fight camps I’ve ever had.”

BKFC 41

Can you speak to the refreshing nature of this fight selling itself based on the skills of the fighters without the need for canned trash-talking lines or cartoonish braggadocio?

“A hundred percent, man. Same here. We both busted our asses our entire careers to get to where we’re at right now. It’s nice to be here and getting paid what we’re getting paid. Having an opponent in front of each other basically that we both respect what we’ve done. I know what Eddie’s done; he knows what I’ve done. Like you said, the fight is going to sell itself.”

Chad Mendes continued, “We don’t need to get up there and put on this WWE fake-ass bunch of s**t-talking (laughs). I know it’s going to be a war, he knows it’s going to be a war, the fans know it’s going to be a war. Just bring it. Let’s do this.”

BKFC

What do you think some of Eddie Alvarez’s transferrable skills will be as he comes over from MMA for this BKFC debut effort?

“Man, I don’t know. I think his biggest attribute is going to be being able to get hit and get back up. He’s obviously got the chin that you can tell he’s out on his feet, but he’s still moving around; then, doesn’t just like go out limp on the ground with a ten count there. I mean, he’s definitely going to be coming back. I think if anything, that’s probably going to be his strongest attribute. I mean he’s got good boxing, so he’s already got that. But yeah, I don’t know, man. I’m curious to see how he transitions. It’s a tiny ring.”

“We have no choice but to be in each other’s face the whole time. That definitely changes the pace and the game tremendously. You have no choice but to be there in the red zone the entire fight. I don’t know, I’m banking on my speed and power and footwork to be a little bit too much for him. I know he’s got some really long arms. But, I just don’t think the speed is going to be there and I don’t think, obviously, the power. But everything’s different, man.”

Chad Mendes continued, “There’s no gloves on the hands, so doesn’t always mean you have to be the most powerful human being on earth. So, anything can happen. That’s what’s so cool about this sport, man. Anything can happen at any time. But yeah, man, I’m curious to see how he makes this transition from a big octagon to this tiny little space and now bare-knuckle. We’re wingin’ ’em, man.”

Parting thoughts for Chad Mendes

“Nah, man. I think we’re good. Just tune in April 29th. This is like we said, this fight’s selling itself. This is going to be probably the biggest bare-knuckle fight in history in my opinion. We’ve got a guy that’s been in the sport for a long time. Two guys that have been in the sport for a long time. Two heavy hitters, guys from multiple weight classes, coming together into one, which is always exciting.”

“Guys that would have never met up in the UFC are now having that opportunity. Not only is it that time, but it’s with no gloves on straight bare-knuckle. So it’s going to be an exciting fight. Do not miss it.”

The post Chad Mendes: “Probably the Biggest Bare-Knuckle Fight in History” vs Eddie Alvarez at BKFC 41 appeared first on Bare Knuckle News.