HARRISBURG, PA — The inaugural bare-knuckle fighting event sanctioned by Pennsylvania’s State Athletic Commission (SAC) has set a new standard for combat sports, drawing tens of thousands of fans and generating unprecedented revenue. The highly anticipated KnuckleMania V, hosted at Philadelphia’s Wells Fargo Center, showcased the thrill of the controversial sport while firmly establishing the Commonwealth as a premier destination for high-stakes events.
Drawing a sold-out crowd of 17,762 fans, the February event amassed $2.15 million in ticket sales, with $107,500 directly benefiting SAC’s self-sustaining operations. SAC Executive Director Ed Kunkle expressed his enthusiasm over the event’s success. “We expected this would be a successful event, but the level of success has blown us away,” said Kunkle. This revenue will allow SAC to continue regulating and sanctioning contact sports without relying on taxpayer dollars.
Electrifying Performances Keep Fans on Their Feet
KnuckleMania V featured a stacked lineup of 12 matches, including the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship’s (BKFC) World Heavyweight Title fight. Heavyweight juggernaut Ben Rothwell secured the title with a dramatic first-round knockout against Mick Terrill, thrilling spectators with his powerful display.
But the evening’s heart belonged to Philadelphia-born Eddie “The Underground King” Alvarez. Facing off against Jeremy Stephens in the main event, the local legend’s quest for victory ended in a third-round stoppage, as Stephens dominated in a fiery performance. Fans roared their approval for the intense action, which was broadcast globally on DAZN, solidifying Philadelphia as a central hub for combat sports.
“KnuckleMania delivered an unforgettable night,” said Kunkle. “Having Eddie Alvarez on the card added a special homegrown feel. This felt like the start of something big for Pennsylvania.”
Additional standout performances included Patrick “The Brick” Brady, who delivered a first-round knockout victory, and Bec Rawlings, who secured a hard-fought decision in the co-main event. Each moment added to the electric atmosphere inside the Wells Fargo Center, which now holds the combat sport attendance record for the “City of Brotherly Love.”
Paving the Way for Future Events
BKFC Founder and President David Feldman hailed the night as a groundbreaking milestone for the growing sport. “I couldn’t be any happier with the result,” Feldman said. “We broke the combat sport attendance record in Philadelphia and had amazing fights to top it off.”
Feldman also credited Pennsylvania’s State Athletic Commission for its seamless oversight of the event, which involved licensing fighters, referees, inspectors, and medical professionals while ensuring all participants were physically cleared to compete. He added, “We look forward to hosting many more great events in Philadelphia and throughout Pennsylvania.”
SAC’s involvement in the sport dates back to its regulation of boxing, MMA, and professional wrestling. With the success of KnuckleMania V, Kunkle noted the commission will continue to oversee upcoming events, including another BKFC showdown, Fight Night Philly, scheduled for March 21 at the 2300 Arena.
A Record-Breaking Night of Fight Action
KnuckleMania V’s spectacle wasn’t limited to the local audience. From legends like Mario Lopez hosting the event to surprise appearances by combat icons like Conor McGregor, the night buzzed with star power and global attention. McGregor even hinted at stepping into the BKFC “Squared Circle” himself, further amplifying the hype surrounding the sport’s growing reputation.
Local fighters delivered some of the evening’s most memorable moments. South Philadelphia’s John “Johnny Garb” Garbarino not only claimed a first-round knockout victory but also proposed in the ring, adding a personal and heartwarming touch to the night.
Brandon Meyer, Ben Rothwell, and Kaine Tomlinson Jr. delivered the knockouts of the evening, while Itso Babulaidze of Georgia made history as the country’s first fighter to compete in BKFC. Babulaidze’s five-round battle with Bryan McDowell earned them the Fight of the Night honor in an electrifying contest that saw both athletes rise from the canvas multiple times.
The Future of Bare-Knuckle Fighting in Pennsylvania
KnuckleMania V has set the stage for Pennsylvania to become a flagship state for BKFC and other combat sports leagues. The unprecedented success reignites interest in bare-knuckle fighting while affirming SAC’s role in ensuring these events are safe and well-regulated.
With new events already on the calendar and global interest in the sport at an all-time high, the Commonwealth is poised to become a national leader in combat sports. As SAC Executive Director Ed Kunkle remarked, “This is only the beginning of something truly special for Pennsylvania, and we can’t wait to see what’s next.”
KnuckleMania V reignited Philadelphia’s rich combat sports history, blending history, drama, and jaw-dropping performances. The event not only marked a milestone for bare-knuckle fighting but also firmly positioned Pennsylvania as an epicenter for adrenaline-fueled competition. Fans, fighters, and organizers alike are looking forward to continuing this remarkable ascent.
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