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&nbsp; The Complete History of Bare-Knuckle Fighting Bare-knuckle fighting, often considered the purest and rawest form of combat sport, has fascinated people for millennia. Unlike modern boxing, which features padded gloves, timed rounds, and weight divisions, bare-knuckle contests were originally fought with minimal rules—or none at all. The sport’s long and turbulent history spans from ancient civilizations to today’s regulated promotions, making it a unique cultural and athletic phenomenon.&nbsp; Ancient Roots of Fist Fighting The tradition of fighting with bare fists dates back thousands of years. Archaeological evidence suggests that combat with clenched fists was practiced in Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Greece as early as the third millennium BCE.Mesopotamia and Egypt: Wall carvings from Sumerian temples and Egyptian tombs depict men striking each other with their fists. These were not just casual fights but were often tied to ritual, entertainment, or training for war. Ancient Greece: Boxing was introduced to the Olympic Games in 688 BCE. Fighters wrapped their hands with leather thongs called himantes to protect their knuckles but not their opponents. Matches were brutal, often lasting until one man could not continue. There were no weight classes, meaning smaller fighters could face much larger opponents. Rome: The Romans adopted Greek boxing and transformed it into an even bloodier spectacle. They created the cestus, a leather glove reinforced with metal, turning matches into gladiatorial battles that sometimes ended in death. &nbsp; The Birth of Modern Bare-Knuckle Fighting in England Although fist-fighting had existed for centuries, bare-knuckle boxing as a sport truly emerged in 17th-century England. The first officially recorded prizefight took place in 1681, organized for the entertainment of the Duke of Albemarle.The Early Days Early English prizefighting had few regulations. Fighters could throw, grapple, or strike in ways that would later be considered illegal. Bouts often lasted for hours, with spectators placing bets on who would prevail.Jack Broughton and the First Rules In 1743, champion Jack Broughton introduced the first formal set of rules after a fighter he defeated died from his injuries. Known as Broughton’s Rules, they included:Banning hitting a downed opponent Providing a 30-second count for a fighter to “come to scratch” (return to the mark and continue fighting) Prohibiting grabbing below the waist These rules marked the beginning of boxing as a regulated sport rather than a lawless brawl.The London Prize Ring Rules In 1838, the London Prize Ring Rules expanded on Broughton’s code. These regulations defined the size of the ring (24 feet), established rounds (ending when a fighter was knocked down), and banned gouging, biting, or headbutting. Despite the rules, fights could still last dozens of rounds and remain extremely violent.&nbsp; Bare-Knuckle Boxing in America As boxing spread across the Atlantic, it found a new home in the United States, particularly among immigrant communities in the 19th century. Irish and English fighters became household names, and prizefights often drew huge crowds despite being technically illegal in many states.John L. Sullivan – The Last Bare-Knuckle Champion The most legendary figure of American bare-knuckle boxing was John L. Sullivan, nicknamed the “Boston Strong Boy.” Known for his incredible punching power and charisma, Sullivan became the first American sports superstar. His most famous fight came in 1889 against Jake Kilrain, lasting 75 rounds in the blazing Mississippi heat. Sullivan’s victory marked the last major bare-knuckle heavyweight championship before boxing officially transitioned to gloved contests under the Marquess of Queensberry Rules.&nbsp; Decline and Underground Survival By the late 19th century, bare-knuckle boxing gave way to modern gloved boxing. The Queensberry Rules (1867) standardized the sport with timed three-minute rounds, gloves, and restrictions on wrestling moves. As a result, bare-knuckle fighting was increasingly pushed underground.For decades, unsanctioned bare-knuckle bouts continued in back alleys, rural barns, and secret venues, especially in areas with strong working-class traditions. Despite its outlaw status, the sport never fully disappeared.&nbsp; The Modern Revival In the 21st century, bare-knuckle fighting has experienced a surprising revival. The raw intensity of the sport, combined with proper safety measures, has attracted both fighters and fans.United Kingdom and Ireland In parts of the UK and Ireland, bare-knuckle fighting persisted as part of traveller and gypsy traditions. These matches, often fought outside official recognition, maintained the heritage of the sport.Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) In 2018, the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) was founded in the United States, becoming the first legal, state-regulated bare-knuckle promotion in modern times. BKFC reintroduced the sport with rules designed for fighter safety:Fights are held in a circular ring Rounds are timed (usually two minutes) Medical staff and referees oversee each bout Hand wrapping is allowed, but knuckles remain exposed The promotion has attracted former UFC, Bellator, and boxing athletes, drawing global attention.Other Promotions Organizations such as BKB™ in the UK and international events in countries like Russia and Thailand have also embraced the resurgence. Today, bare-knuckle boxing is once again a professional sport with growing popularity.&nbsp; Bare-Knuckle vs. Modern Boxing While both sports share the same roots, they differ in key ways:Gloves vs. Knuckles: Gloves distribute impact but allow sustained punishment, while bare fists can cut and break bones quickly. Fight Strategy: Bare-knuckle fighters often punch less frequently but more strategically, aiming for precision over volume. Safety Debate: Surprisingly, some experts argue that bare-knuckle fights may cause fewer brain injuries due to shorter bouts and reduced head trauma compared to gloved boxing. &nbsp; Conclusion From ancient warriors in Greece and Rome to modern-day athletes under bright lights, bare-knuckle fighting has endured as one of humanity’s oldest and most primal sports. Once outlawed and forgotten, it now thrives in a new era of regulated competition.The story of bare-knuckle fighting is not just about brutality—it’s about tradition, resilience, and the timeless human desire to test strength and courage. Whether viewed as a cultural relic or a reborn combat sport, bare-knuckle boxing remains a powerful reminder of where the art of fighting began.&nbsp;

The Complete History of Bare-Knuckle Fighting

UFC Main Event Prediction: Roman Dolidze vs Anthony Hernandez — August 9, 2025 The highly anticipated middleweight showdown between Roman Dolidze and Anthony Hernandez will headline the UFC event on August 9, 2025. This 5-round battle promises a clash of explosive knockout power and relentless grinding pressure.Roman Dolidze — The Heavy Hitter With a record of 15-3-0, Dolidze has 8 knockout wins and 3 submissions on his résumé. Standing 6’2″ with a 76-inch reach, he thrives at range and can end a fight with a single punch. He’s collected multiple Performance of the Night bonuses and carries fight-ending danger in both hands.However, his takedown defense sits at roughly 33%, and while his physical strength makes him hard to muscle to the ground, he has shown vulnerability when opponents chain multiple attempts or use the cage to secure control. He’s also been criticized for a somewhat loose ground game.Anthony Hernandez — The Relentless Grinder Hernandez’s 14-2 (1 NC) record includes 3 knockouts and 8 submissions, but striking numbers tell a deeper story. With 64% striking accuracy and a high output, he overwhelms opponents not with one-shot power, but with volume and pressure.He holds multiple UFC middleweight records for control time, takedowns, and striking efficiency. His style is built on blending strikes into takedown attempts, constantly pushing forward, and breaking opponents mentally and physically over the course of the fight.Key Tactical Notes Striking Power: Dolidze hits much harder, and his knockout threat is greatest in Round 1. Striking Volume &amp; Accuracy: Hernandez lands more and cleaner shots over time. Takedown Threat: While Dolidze is difficult to take down when fresh, Hernandez’s style isn’t about a single attempt — it’s about chaining entries, using pressure against the cage, and wearing down his opponent. Cardio Factor: If Hernandez survives the first five minutes, his chances of grinding out control increase significantly. Fight Flow Prediction In the opening round, expect Dolidze to hold the center, looking for a fight-ending shot while defending Hernandez’s initial grappling entries. Hernandez may struggle early to get the fight down, but his constant pressure will force Dolidze to work harder than he wants to.Fight Dynamics Over 5 Rounds Early rounds: Dolidze will try to keep the fight standing and land a fight-ending shot. Middle rounds: Hernandez’s pressure and pace will intensify, looking to sap Dolidze’s energy and exploit his takedown defense. Championship rounds: Hernandez’s superior conditioning and control tactics will likely dominate, either through ground control or high-volume striking.<h3>Final Pick Anthony Hernandez to Win via Submission — surviving the early danger, neutralizing Dolidze’s power, and piling up control and make the work done.</h3>

UFC Fight Night Prediction: Roman Dolidze vs Anthony Hernandez

<h2>Introduction to the Fighters</h2>The MMA world is abuzz with the anticipation of the upcoming fight between Khamzat Chimaev and Dricus Du Plessis. Both fighters have been making waves in the UFC, and their clash promises to be a thrilling contest of skill, strategy, and sheer willpower. Chimaev, known for his relentless aggression and versatility, has quickly risen through the ranks. Meanwhile, Du Plessis has consistently demonstrated his power and tactical acumen inside the octagon.<figure id="figure-o122cm37zome1vtgp7"><img id="o122cm37zome1vtgp7" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/eEx7UmV0cd8NvAlCTTa4yvj0ZzA7FOTwNlUNuRcMJ6ged561Nh5EsMMUbAfaiVV7.jpg" alt="mma fighters" title="mma fighters" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/eEx7UmV0cd8NvAlCTTa4yvj0ZzA7FOTwNlUNuRcMJ6ged561Nh5EsMMUbAfaiVV7.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h2>Khamzat Chimaev: The Rising Star</h2>Khamzat Chimaev has captivated fans with his dynamic fighting style and impressive record. Known for his ability to seamlessly transition between striking and grappling, Chimaev is a formidable opponent for anyone. He has a reputation for finishing fights early, demonstrating his prowess in both the welterweight and middleweight divisions. His relentless pressure and ability to control the pace of the fight make him a significant threat to any competitor.Chimaev's wrestling background provides him with a solid foundation to dominate opponents on the ground, while his striking ability ensures that he remains a threat standing up. This combination makes him a versatile fighter who can adapt to various situations during a match.<h2>Dricus Du Plessis: The Tactical Powerhouse</h2>Dricus Du Plessis, on the other hand, has carved out a reputation as a powerful striker with an impressive finishing rate. Known for his striking accuracy and knockout power, Du Plessis has proven himself to be a dangerous adversary in the octagon. His ability to read opponents and exploit weaknesses has led to numerous victories, often in spectacular fashion.Du Plessis's background in kickboxing and Brazilian jiu-jitsu adds depth to his fighting arsenal. His striking game is complemented by solid grappling skills, making him a well-rounded fighter capable of handling various fight scenarios. His strategy often involves overwhelming opponents with aggressive striking while remaining vigilant for opportunities to capitalize on mistakes.<h2>Fight Prediction: Keys to Victory</h2>As we look ahead to this exciting matchup, several factors could determine the outcome. For Chimaev, maintaining his relentless pace and leveraging his wrestling skills will be crucial. If he can impose his will early and control the fight's tempo, he stands a strong chance of securing victory. Additionally, his ability to mix up striking and grappling could keep Du Plessis off balance.For Du Plessis, staying composed under pressure will be key. He must utilize his striking accuracy to land significant shots while avoiding getting taken down by Chimaev's wrestling. If Du Plessis can implement a game plan that exploits Chimaev's aggression without getting overwhelmed, he could emerge victorious.<h2>Prediction: Khamzat Chimaev Win over Dricus Du Plessis</h2>This fight promises to be an exhilarating clash of styles, with each fighter bringing unique strengths to the octagon. While Chimaev's relentless aggression and versatility make him a formidable opponent, Du Plessis's power and tactical approach could prove decisive if executed effectively. Both fighters have the potential to secure a victory, making this bout one that fans won't want to miss.We believe that Khamzat is more technically gifted, his genetic power and combination of strong punching and technical wrestling will lead him to victory.

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Articles and predictions

The Complete History of Bare-Knuckle Fighting

UFC Fight Night Prediction: Roman Dolidze vs Anthony Hern...

Khamzat Chimaev vs Dricus Du Plessis: Fight Prediction