PHILADELPHIA, PA — Pennsylvania is set to make sports history as it hosts its first-ever sanctioned bare-knuckle fighting event. KnuckleMania V, the annual marquee event of the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC), will take place on January 25 at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia. This groundbreaking evening is poised to electrify combat sports fans and inject a significant economic boost into the region.
“This isn’t just another fight night,” declared Secretary of the Commonwealth Al Schmidt. “KnuckleMania V is the biggest event BKFC produces, and it’s an incredible opportunity for Pennsylvania to showcase its commitment to hosting world-class combat sports while supporting the local economy.”
The spotlight is firmly on Philadelphia’s own Eddie Alvarez, who will battle Jeremy Stephens in the event’s main draw. Known as “The Underground King,” Alvarez brings hometown pride and a stellar record that promises an unforgettable showdown. Also on the stacked card is a heavyweight championship clash between Mick Terrill and Ben Rothwell, as well as the much-anticipated debut of Kimbo Slice Jr., son of the late MMA legend Kimbo Slice, who will face TikTok sensation Bryce Hall. Rounding out the high-impact night is a women’s flyweight bout featuring Taylor Starling against Bec Rawlings, with further matchups expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
State Athletic Commission at the Helm
Behind the scenes of this historic event is Pennsylvania’s State Athletic Commission (SAC), whose expertise ensures the safety and integrity of combat sports statewide. SAC will oversee fighter licensing, medical clearances, and the assignment of referees, judges, and timekeepers. Under the leadership of Executive Director Ed Kunkle, the commission has bolstered its reputation with a banner year in 2024, regulating major events like WrestleMania and high-profile boxing titles, setting a clear precedent for KnuckleMania V.
According to Kunkle, having Alvarez headline the card makes this event even more special. “A hometown hero like Alvarez elevates the excitement. Bare-knuckle fighting has seen a tremendous resurgence and now thrives as a sanctioned sport in more than 30 states. This is a pivotal moment for Pennsylvania’s combat sports scene,” Kunkle explained.
A New Era for Combat Sports
KnuckleMania V isn’t just a win for fans—it marks an evolution for combat sports in Pennsylvania. By hosting the event, the state highlights its progressive stance on fostering diverse athletic competitions while ensuring rigorous oversight. The SAC’s efforts to regulate and promote combat sports have created a safer and more appealing environment for athletes and promoters alike.
Combat sports also deliver substantial benefits to the state’s economy. Events like KnuckleMania can draw significant tourism revenue, with fans packing hotels, restaurants, and nearby venues. If past successes like WrestleMania—which generated millions of dollars for the Philadelphia area—are any indication, KnuckleMania V promises to leave an economic imprint long after the final bell rings.
A Fight Night to Remember
With KnuckleMania V on the horizon, fighters and fans alike are gearing up for a night of unrelenting action. Whether it’s Alvarez representing Philly pride, Kimbo Slice Jr. carving out his own legacy, or rising stars leaving everything in the ring, this event promises to deliver a spectacle unlike any other.
Pennsylvania has officially entered the bare-knuckle arena, and if KnuckleMania V is any indication, its combat sports legacy is just beginning to take shape. Get ready, Philadelphia—the fight of the year is coming.
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