Saturday, October 12, 2024, Franco Tenaglia, the Argentine fighter from Burzaco, Buenos Aires, became the BKFC Lightweight World Champion in Marbella, Spain. In a brutal, bloody bout, he defeated Puerto Rican Tony Soto by majority decision, with scores of 47-45, 46-46, and 47-45. This was not just another victory; it was a war that cemented Tenaglia’s place in the history books of Combat Sports.
A Night to Remember in Marbella
The Marbella Arena was packed with over 5,000 fans, all eager to witness the main event. This wasn’t just any fight; it was billed as the most anticipated Bare Knuckle bout in recent memory. Tenaglia entered the ring as the underdog, facing an undefeated and highly ranked Soto. But in Bare Knuckle, anything can happen, and Franco was ready to leave it all in the ring.
The fight lived up to the hype. Both fighters were relentless, exchanging powerful strikes from the opening bell. Tenaglia‘s boxing skills shone in the first round, but Soto‘s experience began to show in the second. He landed a liver shot that visibly hurt Tenaglia. However, the Argentine’s will to win was undeniable, and he came back strong in the third and fourth rounds. Both men, running on fumes, gave it their all in the final round, leaving the crowd on their feet and McGregor, watching from ringside, grinning with approval.
From the Streets to Glory
Franco Tenaglia’s journey is a tale of grit and determination. At 18, he left his hometown of Burzaco, Argentina, seeking better opportunities in Europe, only to find himself homeless and Fighting for survival on the streets of Wales. He participated in Underground Bare-knuckle Fights organized by Welsh gypsies and the Albanian Mafia to make ends meet, unknowingly honing his skills for a future in Combat Sports.
Despite the harsh realities he faced, Tenaglia’s raw talent and Unbreakable will pushed him forward. From underground fights to sparring with Top Athletes, his career slowly gained momentum. His relentless pursuit of greatness culminated in his rise within Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC), where he made a name for himself through his aggressive fighting style and undeniable toughness.
Tenaglia faced Tony Soto for the BKFC Lightweight World Title, an opportunity he had long dreamed of. Reflecting on his victory, he remarked, “I came from nothing, but I always knew I was destined for greatness.” His win cemented his place among the elite in bare-knuckle boxing, showing the world that he is not just a fighter but a symbol of perseverance.
Conor McGregor Steals the Show
Another highlight of the night was UFC Superstar and BKFC co-owner Conor McGregor, who was a central figure throughout the event. McGregor, known for his flair and showmanship, declared this bout as “the best main event in Bare Knuckle history.” His involvement in BKFC has brought tremendous attention to the sport, and with events like this, it’s clear that Bare Knuckle is on the rise.
Before the fight, McGregor had promised to double the prize for both fighters, further escalating the stakes. He was not disappointed. After the fight, he congratulated both warriors and reiterated his commitment to growing Bare Knuckle boxing worldwide. “This is just the beginning,” McGregor said, hinting at even bigger events in the future.
The Future of Bare Knuckle Fighting
Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) is on a remarkable growth trajectory, especially in Europe, thanks to prominent figures like Tenaglia and the backing of McGregor. This sport, which has roots in the early days of Boxing, is cultivating a loyal fanbase drawn to its intense and unfiltered action. As interest surges, some are questioning whether Bare-Knuckle Boxing could redefine Combat Sports.
David Feldman, a pivotal figure in the resurgence of bare-knuckle boxing, recalls his initial exposure to the sport during a sanctioned bout in Arizona in 2011. Witnessing the raw power of fighters like Bobby Gunn ignited Feldman’s passion, revealing the potential for financial success in a sport long overshadowed by its violent reputation. His deep roots in Combat Sports and early experiences shaped his vision for a more organized and mainstream version of Bare-Knuckle Fighting.
Historically, Bare-Knuckle Boxing traces back to 17th-century England, governed by evolving rules over the centuries. The London Prize Ring Rules and later the Marquess of Queensberry Rules introduced structure to the sport, transitioning it from chaotic street brawls to a more respected athletic endeavor. Despite its past, recent promotions in the U.S. and U.K. are bringing a fresh perspective to bare-knuckle fighting, highlighting its potential as a legitimate sport.
With BKFC expanding globally and significant events like the introduction of Female Bare-Knuckle Fights in the U.K., the sport is shedding its gritty image. Current champions are showcasing their skills on a larger stage, while promoters innovate rules to enhance safety and competition. As fighters like Tenaglia aim for continued success, the future of Bare-Knuckle Boxing looks promising, paving the way for it to become a staple in the world of Combat Sports.
