BKB Boxing UK: Bad To The Bone Acquisition | News

BKB Expands Global Footprint with Acquisition of bad To The Bone

BKB Bare Knuckle Boxing has substantially expanded its presence in the combat sports world with the acquisition of Bad To The Bone (BTTB), the United Kingdom’s longest-running independent bare knuckle fighting promotion. The move solidifies BKB’s position as a dominant force in the sport, boasting the largest fighter roster, an extensive video library, and a growing global reach.

A Strategic Expansion into the UK Market

This acquisition marks BKB’s second major foray into the UK market, signaling a clear intent to capitalize on the burgeoning popularity of bare knuckle boxing across the Atlantic. According to a company release, the integration of BTTB’s talent and resources will accelerate BKB’s international growth strategy.

“Bad To The Bone has always been about putting fighters first and delivering the best bare knuckle action possible,” stated the founder of BTTB. “Joining forces with BKB feels like the perfect next step to elevate our sport even further. I’m proud of the legacy we’ve built over eight years and thrilled to bring our champions and talent to the global BKB stage.”

Did you know? – bare knuckle boxing differs from conventional boxing by removing the gloves, leading to more cuts and a greater emphasis on hand conditioning. It’s a sport with ancient roots, tracing back to early forms of pugilism.

Leadership Continuity and Future Events

A key component of the acquisition is the continued involvement of Stefan Hanks,the founder of BTTB. Hanks will transition into the role of UK Chief Operating Officer (COO) and will also serve as the lead UK matchmaker for BKB. This ensures a seamless integration of the two organizations and leverages Hanks’ deep understanding of the UK fight scene.

BKB anticipates hosting a series of events throughout the United Kingdom in 2026, with planned stops at iconic venues including London’s O2 Arena, Wembley Arena, and Manchester Arena.

Pro tip – Fighters in bare knuckle boxing often wrap their hands tightly to protect the knuckles and wrists, but padding or gloves are prohibited. Proper hand care is crucial to prevent injury.

BKB CEO Highlights Synergies and Growth Potential

The acquisition is viewed as a natural progression for BKB as it seeks to further establish bare knuckle boxing as a mainstream combat sport. “Stefan Hanks has built a fighter-first promotion that’s delivered high-level action and developed real talent for years,” saeid BKB CEO David Tetreault.”We’re excited to integrate their rising stars into our Trigon, and putting them on the biggest possible stages with our upcoming events in major venues like The O2, Wembley Arena, and Manchester Arena. With Stefan on board long-term, 2026 will be our most enterprising year yet – more shows, more fights, and more opportunities to showcase why bare knuckle boxing is the purest and most exciting form of combat sports.”

The integration of BTTB’s fighters and the planned expansion into major UK venues represent a important investment in the future of combat sports, and BKB appears poised to capitalize on the growing demand for raw, unfiltered fighting action.

why: BKB acquired BTTB to expand its global footprint, specifically into the UK market, and capitalize on the growing popularity of bare knuckle boxing.
Who: BKB Bare Knuckle Boxing acquired Bad To the Bone (BTTB). Key individuals include David Tetreault (BKB CEO) and Stefan Hanks (BTTB founder, now BKB UK COO and lead matchmaker).
What: BKB purchased BTTB, the UK’s longest-running independent bare knuckle fighting promotion. This includes BTTB’s fighter roster, video library, and resources.
How did it end?: The acquisition concluded with BKB integrating BTTB’s fighters and resources, Stefan Hanks taking on a leadership role within BKB UK, and plans for a series of events in major UK venues in 2026.The deal aims to elevate the sport and showcase it on a larger, global stage.