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Jesse Ronson Targets Historic BKB and Gamebred Bare Knuckle MMA Gold

July 11, 2026Diego Herrera3 мин

Jesse Ronson is gearing up to headline BKB 52: No Turning Back on March 28th, where he will challenge Cub Hawkins for the prestigious BKB Championship. Achieving champion status is a significant feat, but Ronson has his sights set on an even greater legacy: cementing his place in history as the first Canadian bare-knuckle world champion.

Ronson feels exceptionally prepared for this momentous fight. He states that his current training camp is the best he's ever experienced, describing his speed, power, reactions, timing, and distance control as "ridiculous." Many observing his training agree, noting that at 40, he seems to be entering a new prime.

"I've never felt this 'on' before, and I feel supremely confident," Ronson shared. While acknowledging the pressure of his first world title fight against a legend like Cub Hawkins—a multi-division champion with an impressive record of 9-1 who recently defeated Barrie Jones—Ronson is driven by a powerful motivation. "To be the first Canadian ever to win a bare-knuckle title... I want it so bad, and it's just very motivating." He emphasizes that he's taking all necessary steps, including proper rest, to train smarter than ever before.

Ronson is profoundly motivated by the opportunity to make history. He's actively sought evidence of any prior Canadian bare-knuckle champions but found none. "I can't even describe the feeling... you're making history. There's never been a bare-knuckle Canadian champion. That's huge, especially for me." While some might question why he isn't pursuing an MMA world title, Ronson believes being a world champion in any combat sport is a profound accomplishment.

He declares himself the best in the world at 175 pounds in bare-knuckle boxing. When asked about potential rivals like Mike Perry or Dave Mundell, he confidently asserts, "If they want it, they can come get it. Just show me the money." The idea of being the first Canadian champion resonates deeply with him, offering an "incredible feeling" that negates any pressure. "I'm going to go out there and I'm going to win," he affirms. "I feel like I can't lose because I'm the first guy... The universe won't let me lose. It's our time. Go Canada!"

Jesse Ronson Eyes Bare Knuckle Belts in Boxing and Jorge Masvidal’s Gamebred MMA Show

Beyond the BKB title, Jesse Ronson has his sights set on another major prize: Jorge Masvidal’s Gamebred Bare Knuckle MMA title. Ronson's entry into bare-knuckle boxing was met with high expectations, but his dominant performance against seasoned fighter Ryan Jett solidified his potential. His swift victory against Jett, who had fought for titles and challenged multiple champions, proved he was a natural fit for the sport.

Ronson recounted the excitement following his debut, with fans immediately calling for his title shot. Despite initial reluctance from the matchmaker, Ronson's undeniable skill fast-tracked his opportunity. He believes his journey won't stop with the BKB belt. "I'm going to take care of Cub Hawkins. Then I'm going to go win the Gamebred bare-knuckle MMA title and be the first ever bare-knuckle welterweight MMA champion in the world, let alone Canadian."

He also expressed interest in fighting Barrie Jones after securing these titles. For Ronson, these world titles represent more than just legitimacy; they are a way to reclaim something after years dedicated to MMA and fighting. "MMA and fighting has taken everything from me. So I need to take something back and it's finally time to start making some cheese."