Wild Brawl Erupts at BKFC KnuckleMania VI

The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is the world's leading mixed martial arts (MMA) promotion company, founded in 1993 by Art Davie, Rorion Gracie, and Bob Meyrowitz. Initially conceived as an experimental event to determine the most effective martial art in real combat, the UFC has evolved into a global sports phenomenon. The first event, UFC 1, was held in Denver, Colorado, and featured a single-elimination tournament with minimal rules, won by Royce Gracie, a Brazilian jiu-jitsu practitioner[1][2][3]. ### History and Evolution In its early years, the UFC faced criticism for its brutality, leading to the introduction of stricter rules and safety measures. By the late 1990s, weight classes and prohibited techniques were implemented, and the Unified Rules of MMA were adopted around 2000, significantly enhancing the sport's legitimacy[2][4]. The UFC's financial struggles in the early 2000s were alleviated when the Fertitta brothers and Dana White purchased the company in 2001. Their leadership transformed the UFC into a mainstream success, notably through the reality TV show "The Ultimate Fighter," which aired in 2005[4]. ### Key Achievements and Current Status The UFC has made several strategic acquisitions, including Pride Fighting Championships in 2007 and Strikeforce in 2011, solidifying its position as the premier MMA promotion[1]. Today, the UFC operates across multiple continents, hosting events in various countries and featuring top fighters like Jon Jones and Georges St-Pierre. The organization has expanded to include 12 weight divisions for men and women, reflecting its growth and diversification[5]. ### Notable Aspects The UFC is recognized for its innovative approach to sports marketing and its ability to integrate technology into its events, enhancing fan engagement and broadcast quality. Its global reach and popularity have made it a significant player in the sports industry, attracting millions of fans

**The Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC)** is the premier American promotion for regulated bare-knuckle boxing, reviving the historic combat sport with modern safety protocols in a patented circular "squared circle" ring featuring 19th-century-inspired scratch lines.[1][3][6] Founded in April 2018 by former boxer David Feldman in Philadelphia, BKFC pioneered the first state-sanctioned U.S. bare-knuckle events since 1889, starting with its June 2018 debut that included the modern era's inaugural women's bout, won by Bec Rawlings—who earned the National Police Gazette World Diamond Belt.[1][2] BKFC's rapid ascent includes over 142 events by December 2025, crowning inaugural champions like Arnold Adams (Heavyweight) at BKFC 3 and attracting stars from UFC, boxing, and MMA such as Artem Lobov, Paige VanZant, Chris Leben, and Anthony Johnson (in an admin role).[1][2][5] Key expansions featured the 2022 acquisition of the UK's Bare Fist Boxing Association, launching BKFC UK amid a vibrant European scene, though its Thailand brand shuttered in 2024.[1][5] Strict rules—no knuckle tape or gauze, pro fighters only, medical screenings, and experienced officials—position BKFC as the safest, most authentic bare-knuckle league, countering critics by emphasizing regulation over glorification of violence.[2][3][5] As of early 2026, BKFC thrives with active champions like Mick Terrill (Heavyweight), Franco Tenaglia (Lightweight), and Christine Ferea (Flyweight), alongside weight classes from Strawweight to Heavyweight.[5][6] Upcoming events include BKFC Fight Night Newcastle (March 14), BKFC 87 Hollywood (March 20), and more, broadcast via BKFC+ subscriptions offering live fights, archives, and exclusives.[6]