BKFC 82 Newark: Perry vs. Stephens Headlines Bare Knuckle Fighting Event

What's Happening?

The Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) 82 event is set to take place on October 4, 2025, at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. The main event features a highly anticipated bout between Mike Perry and Jeremy Stephens. Perry, who has a record of 14-8 in MMA and 5-0 in BKFC, has become a prominent figure in the BKFC scene, having defeated notable fighters such as Michael 'Venom' Page and Luke Rockhold. His opponent, Jeremy Stephens, holds a record of 29-22 with 1 no contest in MMA and is undefeated in BKFC with a 3-0 record. Both fighters are known for their aggressive styles and have expressed confidence in their abilities to dominate the fight. The event will be available for streaming on DAZN, with the main card starting at 6 p.m. ET and the main event expected to begin around 10 p.m. ET.

Why It's Important?

The BKFC 82 event is significant as it highlights the growing popularity of bare-knuckle fighting in the United States. This combat sport, which emphasizes raw physicality and skill, is attracting a dedicated fan base and providing a platform for fighters like Mike Perry and Jeremy Stephens to showcase their talents outside traditional MMA organizations. The event's success could further legitimize bare-knuckle fighting as a mainstream sport, potentially leading to increased viewership and sponsorship opportunities. For the fighters, a victory could enhance their reputations and career prospects within the BKFC and beyond. The event also underscores the competitive nature of combat sports, where athletes continuously seek new challenges and avenues to demonstrate their prowess.

What's Next?

Following the BKFC 82 event, the outcomes of the fights, particularly the main event between Perry and Stephens, could influence future matchups and rankings within the BKFC. A decisive win for either fighter may set the stage for title contention or high-profile bouts against other top competitors in the organization. Additionally, the event's reception by fans and media could impact the scheduling and promotion of future BKFC events, potentially leading to more frequent and larger-scale events. Stakeholders in the combat sports industry will likely monitor the event's success to gauge the viability of further investments in bare-knuckle fighting.