Mike Perry is set to make his return to the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) on October 4, 2024, as he headlines the promotion’s inaugural event in Newark, New Jersey. Perry, known as the “King of Violence,” will face former UFC contender Jeremy Stephens in a matchup that promises to deliver excitement for fight fans.
The announcement was made during The Ariel Helwani Show on Wednesday, marking a significant moment for both fighters. Perry has not stepped into the BKFC ring since April 2024, when he achieved a stunning victory over former UFC title challenger Thiago Alves, finishing the fight just one minute into the first round. This victory improved Perry’s professional bare-knuckle record to an impressive 5-0, with notable wins against former UFC champions such as Eddie Alvarez and Luke Rockhold.
Both Fighters Looking to Build Momentum
After his swift victory against Alves, Perry transitioned to boxing, where he faced Jake Paul but suffered a sixth-round TKO loss. Since that match, he has been eager to return to bare-knuckle fighting, and now has his opportunity in Newark.
On the other side, Jeremy Stephens enters this fight with a 3-0 record in bare-knuckle competition. His most recent victory came in January when he defeated Alvarez, showcasing his ability in this format. After that win, Stephens returned to the UFC for an event in Iowa but lost a decision to Mason Jones. Now, back in the BKFC, Stephens aims to capitalize on his bare-knuckle success against Perry.
A Clash of Fighting Styles
This matchup not only highlights two fighters with formidable records but also presents a clash of fighting styles. Perry, known for his aggressive approach, will look to engage early, while Stephens, a seasoned striker, will likely employ a tactical strategy to exploit any openings. The stakes are high as both fighters seek to solidify their positions in the sport and entertain the audience in Newark.
As the date approaches, anticipation builds for what promises to be a thrilling night of bare-knuckle action. Fans can expect both fighters to bring their best as they prepare for a contest that could redefine their careers in the combat sports arena.