Bare knuckle as a regulated professional sport
BKFC launched in 2018 with the aim of returning legal, regulated bare-knuckle boxing to a major stage in the United States. It describes itself as the first US promotion since 1889 to hold sanctioned bare-knuckle events. The company is based in Philadelphia and led by David Feldman.
What is legal
Fighters compete without boxing gloves. The wrist, thumb and mid-hand can be wrapped, but the knuckles must remain uncovered. Only closed-fist punches are legal; kicks, knees, elbows and ground fighting are not. Punching in the clinch is allowed until roughly three seconds of inactivity prompt the referee to separate the fighters.
Each round begins with the fighters at two lines in the center of the ring, creating the BKFC phrase “Toe the Line.” Bouts are scheduled for five two-minute rounds. A knockdown triggers a ten-count and a grounded opponent cannot be struck.
Difference from gloved boxing
The punches are familiar to boxing, but exposed knuckles, active clinching and shorter rounds change range, defense and pace. Cuts are more visible, yet medical stoppages and a regulated framework remain central. Bare knuckle does not mean an absence of rules.
Positioning
BKFC sells fast, immediate action and uses both dedicated bare-knuckle athletes and recognizable names from MMA and boxing. The combination of historical imagery and modern sports production defines the brand.
