The Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) bantamweight division has seen a significant development: its championship belt is now vacant. Promoter David Feldman recently announced that Justin Ibarrola, the reigning champion, has decided to relinquish his 135-pound title.
Feldman explained that Ibarrola conveyed he wasn’t prepared for the responsibilities of being a champion at this time. Ibarrola expressed a desire to explore other avenues, including potentially glove boxing, and sought greater flexibility in his career. Feldman clarified, “He’s not ready to take on the role and the responsibility of being a world champion for BKFC.” He further stated that the decision was Ibarrola’s own, and not a result of him fighting outside the organization, though Ibarrola did secure a win in a recent boxing event. Feldman speculated that Ibarrola might not have wanted to face the upcoming challengers, or perhaps simply felt he lacked the necessary maturity for the role.
Despite the title relinquishment, Feldman emphasized that BKFC holds high regard for Ibarrola. “We really like Justin Ibarrola. He’s been a part of growing this thing in South Florida. Nothing but respect,” Feldman stated, adding that Ibarrola will continue to compete for BKFC, just not as its champion. The promoter reiterated that the champion’s role demands a certain level of commitment and stability that Ibarrola currently seeks to avoid, as he desires to “bounce around a little bit” professionally.
From his perspective, the former BKFC champion Justin Ibarrola confirmed his decision was driven by a desire for more freedom. He wants to “move around” and pursue various fighting opportunities, which he felt would be restricted while holding the championship belt. He clarified that he intends to “still [be] fighting for BKFC but can’t move around as I want as their champion.”
With the title now up for grabs, a new championship bout has already been scheduled. Former WBO super featherweight champion Jamel Herring will aim to add a bare-knuckle title to his accomplishments when he faces former UFC flyweight Nate Maness. This contest for the vacant BKFC bantamweight title is set to take place at BKFC 89 on May 22nd in Palm Desert, California.
