Former IBF featherweight world champion Lee Selby has officially announced his entry into bare knuckle boxing. He is scheduled to make his debut at BKB ‘Carnage in Cardiff’ on Saturday, June 27, 2026, taking place at the Vindico Arena in Cardiff.
Selby, known for his impressive boxing career from 2015 to 2018 as a world champion with multiple successful title defenses, aims to conquer a new discipline and become a two-sport titleholder. During his boxing tenure, he also secured British, Commonwealth, and European featherweight titles between 2011 and 2014.
His strategic fight IQ and renowned defensive skills are expected to be a compelling factor in the raw, gloveless combat of bare knuckle boxing as he prepares for his summer showdown.
Lee Selby: “I’m back to show what I can do and chase another world title”
Speaking about his transition, Selby expressed his excitement:
“I’ve achieved everything in gloved boxing from regional titles to five successful world title defences. Now I’m making my bare knuckle debut right here in Cardiff. It’s the purest, no-filter version of the fight game, and I’m excited to bring my speed, skill, and experience to the Trigon. I’m back to show what I can do and chase 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 title pedigree and championship mentality make him a massive addition to the roster. We’re thrilled to watch him make his bare knuckle debut in Cardiff and chase bare knuckle glory alongside our growing stable of elite talent.”
BKB founder, Mike Vazquez, added:
“Lee is a true champion with an incredible resume. Lee’s debut in Cardiff is going to be special.”
This signing highlights BKB’s continued strategy of bringing in experienced boxers with strong professional records. This trend is also seen with Paulie Malignaggi preparing for a super welterweight world title fight against Rolando Dy on May 16th in Manchester.
