Mike Perry, undefeated in BKFC, is negotiating for his next fight, potentially returning for KnuckleMania VI in February, with ongoing talks for a high-profile opponent.
Mike Perry took a lengthy break from bare-knuckle fights, about a year and a half, before making his comeback to BKFC in October. Now, it seems he won’t have to wait as long for his next bout.
After his victory over Jeremy Stephens at BKFC 82, Perry mentioned a slew of potential opponents he’d like to face. However, he admitted that many seemed reluctant to engage him in bare-knuckle combat. Although nothing’s finalized, BKFC president David Feldman shared with MMA Fighting that negotiations are underway for Perry’s next fight, possibly with a high-profile opponent.
“Mike Perry, as we discussed, needs the right dance partner,” Feldman said. “He can’t fight just anyone. We have someone in mind, and if we seal the deal, it’s going to be explosive.”
But it’s not done yet. Feldman added, “I think it’ll happen, but you never know until it’s official.”
Before the Stephens fight, there were talks of a potential match with former UFC welterweight champ Robbie Lawler. That didn’t pan out, so BKFC explored other options.
Feldman has also considered ex-UFC challenger Darren Till for Perry. However, Till’s hesitancy to transition into bare-knuckle fighting, especially after establishing a boxing career with a knockout win over Luke Rockhold, remains a hurdle.
Feldman hinted that Perry, dubbed “The King of Violence,” might return as soon as February. The promotion plans to host KnuckleMania VI in Philadelphia, and Perry has headlined this marquee event twice before.
The next KnuckleMania is set for February 7, just a day before the Super Bowl. “Tentatively, Mike Perry’s return for KnuckleMania could be a big part of the plan,” Feldman teased.
In his BKFC career, Perry remains undefeated with a perfect 6-0 record. His victories include wins over Rockhold, Eddie Alvarez, and current UFC star Michael “Venom” Page.