Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship and contender James Brown have parted ways.
“BKFC appreciates James Brown’s contributions during his time with the organization and wishes him continued success in his career,” said BKFC in a press release.
“After careful consideration, BKFC determined that moving in separate directions is the right decision for the organisation
and its continued growth.”
Brown (BKFC record 5-1, 3 KOs) has competed in BKFC’S featherweight and lightweight (145 lb and 155 lb) divisions.
Unusually tall for the lighter divisions at six feet two inches tall, Brown’s height and reach advantages led him to an upset victory over
previously unbeaten Dan Chapman in his last bout this past October.
Brown also defeated former boxing champion Mike Alvarado and Ukrainian standout Bovar Khanakov during his BKFC tenure.
His sole defeat was to contender Howard “HD” Davis, who stopped him at BKFC 66 in September 2024.
Nicknamed “Get Down”, the 32-year-old Brown came to bare knuckle fighting from professional MMA. The Wilmington, North Carolina fighter has won 10 of 15 pro MMA bouts, according to Tapology.
James Brown: “I Left Because I Wanted to Fight”
Brown responded to BKFC’s press release in an Instagram post (@getdownjdbrown)
“I didn’t leave because I stopped wanting to fight. I left because I wanted to fight,” wrote Brown.
“I wasn’t planning on making a big statement about my departure from BKFC, but after seeing their announcement, I feel like I owe the people who have supported me some clarity,” he said.
“I have a lot of respect for BKFC, the fighters, staff and fans. I’m proud of what I accomplished there and grateful for the opportunities I was given.”
“But I also have to be honest.”
“I spent a lot of time training, staying ready and waiting for opportunities to compete and move forward. At this point in my career, I couldn’t keep putting my career on hold while waiting for fights.”
“When another organization gave me an opportunity to be active and continue building my career, I had a decision to make.”
“It wasn’t about chasing a bigger paycheck.It was about fighting. I believe I still have a lot left to accomplish in this sport, and I wasn’t willing to sit on the sidelines and watch my career pass me by because of a popularity contest.”
“I’m proud of my time with BKFC. I’m proud of the fights I had, the people I fought, and the place I earned in that division.”
“But now I’m moving forward.”
“No bitterness. No excuses. Just business.”
“I chose my career. And I’m not done yet. 🥊”
Brown didn’t mention who the other organisaton is but it’s suspected to be BKB Bare Knuckle Boxing.
Bare Knuckle Heroes reached out to a BKB representative but didn’t receive a response.
Photo Credit: BKFC
