London, UK – Marko Martinjak cemented his status as the pound-for-pound king of bare-knuckle boxing by retaining his world bridgerweight championship in just 71 seconds at the O2 Arena, marking BKB’s return to London after 21 months.
The Croatian champion defended the belt he claimed from Dan Podmore in October 2025, powering to his ninth one-round finish in his first title defense.
Martinjak faced former world heavyweight champion Isaac Villanueva, and wasted no time. Just 10 seconds into the fight, Villanueva was knocked down by a crushing right hand after Martinjak countered a slow jab. Though Villanueva beat the count, he was dazed and sent to the canvas two more times, ending the fight decisively.
“I am pound for pound,” Martinjak roared after the bout. “I don’t know who is doing these rankings, but you need to update. Who is the No 1?”
Undercard Highlights
- Scott McHugh vs. Martin Reffell: McHugh delivered a strong final three minutes to secure a points victory, repeating his September 2022 win over Reffell. The judges scored 48-47, 49-46, 47-48, giving McHugh the win and keeping him in contention for a super-welterweight world title against the winner of Paulie Malignaggi vs. Rolando Dy on May 16 in Manchester.
- Dan Gittens vs. Corey Healey: Gittens earned a two-round retirement win, setting up a challenge for the welterweight championship against Javon Wright on May 16. Healey initially threatened with a knockdown in the opening 30 seconds, but Gittens recovered, dominated late in the first round, and forced Healey out due to a hand injury in the second round.
Roberto Villa is the CEO, Founder, Executive Writer, and Senior Editor of FightBook MMA. Has a passion for Combat Sports and is also a podcast host for Sitting Ringside. He’s also a former MMA fighter and Kickboxer. He’s also the main photographer for the 4CornersMafia Car Club.
Discover more from FightBook MMA
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.