Former IBF featherweight world champion Lee Selby has announced his official entry into bare knuckle boxing, set to take place at BKB ‘Carnage in Cardiff’ in late June. BKB Bare Knuckle Boxing confirmed that the ex-world champion, known as “Lightning” Lee Selby, will step into the BKB Mighty Trigon on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at the Vindico Arena in Cardiff. This event marks the Welsh fighter’s return to competitive combat sports.
Selby, who held the IBF featherweight world title from 2015 to 2018 with several successful defenses, intends to pursue a BKB world title and become a champion in two different combat disciplines. Prior to his world title reign, Selby also secured British, Commonwealth, and European featherweight titles between 2011 and 2014. His renowned fight IQ and sophisticated defensive skills are highly anticipated in the context of gloveless fighting as he prepares for his summer bout.
Lee Selby: “I’m back to showcase my abilities and pursue another world title.”
Addressing his upcoming debut in the bare knuckle arena, Lee Selby stated, “I’ve accomplished everything in traditional boxing, from regional belts to five world title defenses. Now, I’m making my bare knuckle debut right here in Cardiff. This is the most authentic form of fighting, and I’m eager to bring my speed, skill, and experience to the Trigon. I’m back to showcase my abilities and pursue another world title.”
BKB’s CEO, David Tetreault, commented on the significant addition to their roster: “Lee Selby is a game-changer for our organization. His world championship background and winning mentality make him an invaluable addition. We are thrilled to witness his bare knuckle debut in Cardiff as he aims for bare knuckle glory alongside our expanding roster of elite talent.”
BKB founder Mike Vazquez added, “Lee is a true champion with an exceptional career. His debut in Cardiff is set to be a memorable event.”
This signing highlights BKB’s ongoing strategy of attracting seasoned boxers with extensive resumes. This trend is further exemplified by Paulie Malignaggi’s upcoming super welterweight world title challenge against Rolando Dy on May 16th in Manchester.
