BKFC Honolulu’s Doug Coltrane Aims to Prove “UFC Is Just a Business” vs. Maki Pitolo

Doug Coltrane is set to face Maki Pitolo at BKFC Honolulu on April 11th. After a significant break from bare-knuckle competition, Coltrane shared his feelings about his return, stating:

“Last year, I had an opportunity to fight in January. It was my fault; I couldn’t take the opportunity due to some personal issues. But since then, I’ve gotten things back in order with my life. I’ve been training intensely and consistently in the gym. When I got the phone call, I was ready. I can fight right now; I’m ready.”

With his life in order and the chance to headline an event in a new market for BKFC, it appears circumstances aligned perfectly for Coltrane. Reflecting on this turn of events in his career, Coltrane explained:

“It truly fell into place. The fight I initially accepted was in Denver against a top-five contender. I was ready, but for some reason, it didn't materialize on their end, even though I was told they had also accepted. A week or two later, I learned it was off. They then connected me with the promoters for the Hawaii card, and I had no idea it would be the main event.”

“When they gave me the name, I honestly didn’t know who the guy was at first, though I obviously do now. As I’ve said, the way this whole story unfolded makes it very interesting. This fight has a compelling narrative behind it; BKFC should really produce a strong lead-up for it.”

“You have me, the BKFC veteran, against the UFC veteran. Both of us are coming off layoffs and a couple of losses. Everything aligned perfectly, and this fight, this story, makes for a really good main event. A big shout out to Nate Shook and all the matchmakers for putting this one together, because it’s going to be great.”

Doug Coltrane Aims to Build His Name by Defeating Maki Pitolo at BKFC Honolulu

Prior to signing the bout agreement, Doug Coltrane admitted he didn't know much about Maki Pitolo. However, his understanding has since evolved, and he now has a clear perspective on his opponent, a fighter with local support. Coltrane remarked:

“He’s obviously a seasoned MMA veteran, having had his time in the UFC, and I believe he’s looking for a new run in BKFC. It’s a good matchup, considering his extensive experience and his background in a major promotion. He’s essentially crossing over into my territory.”

“I get to represent BKFC and officially welcome him. Given my own history – fighting for a title and previously being ranked second in the world – this fight offers a significant opportunity for him. If he were to beat me, it would set him up well, especially for his BKFC debut as a UFC veteran. You know how it is with UFC fighters; they often climb the ranks quickly because they already have established names.”

“So, he’s looking to make a name off of me, and I’m looking to make a name off of him. I want to show everyone that the UFC guys are stepping into a different world here. This isn’t the UFC, it’s not MMA, and it’s not traditional boxing.”

“I’m really looking forward to it. I’m excited to demonstrate to everyone that the UFC is just a business. When I defeat him on April 11th, everyone will see that. They’ll see it’s just a business, and this is a different sport.”