CARDIFF, Wales — Former IBF featherweight world champion Lee Selby is officially stepping into the world of bare knuckle boxing.
BKB Bare Knuckle Boxing announced that Selby will make his highly anticipated debut on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at Vindico Arena during BKB 55: Carnage in Cardiff.
The Welsh boxing star returns to combat sports competition in his hometown, this time inside the brutal confines of BKB’s signature Trigon.
Lee Selby Begins New Chapter in Bare Knuckle Boxing
Nicknamed “Lightning,” Selby brings elite-level experience and championship pedigree into the fast-rising world of bare knuckle boxing.
Selby enjoyed a decorated professional boxing career, holding the IBF featherweight world title from 2015 to 2018, making five successful title defenses against top contenders.
Before becoming a world champion, the Barry native captured the British, Commonwealth, and European featherweight titles between 2011 and 2014.
He retired from gloved boxing with an impressive 28-4 record with 9 knockouts and remains the 12th Welsh world champion in boxing history.
His slick defense, sharp boxing IQ, and hand speed made him one of the most respected fighters to emerge from Wales.
Now, after conquering the traditional boxing world, Selby is chasing gold in a new combat arena.
“I’ve achieved everything in gloved boxing from regional titles to five successful world title defences,” Selby said.
“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 Executives Praise Lee Selby Signing
BKB officials believe Selby’s signing is a major moment for the promotion.
David Tetreault said:
“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.”
Mike Vazquez added:
“Lee is a true champion with an incredible resume. Lee’s debut in Cardiff is going to be special.”
BKB Continues to Build Momentum
Selby’s arrival continues the momentum for BKB Bare Knuckle Boxing as it expands globally.
The promotion now boasts more than 200 fighters from over 30 countries and continues attracting major names from traditional boxing.
Among recent highlights is Paulie Malignaggi’s transition to bare knuckle competition, as well as his upcoming super welterweight world title challenge against Rolando Dy on May 16, 2026, in Manchester.
Carnage in Cardiff Promises Fireworks
BKB 55: Carnage in Cardiff is expected to feature a stacked lineup of high-stakes bare knuckle action at Vindico Arena in Cardiff Bay.
Broadcast details will be announced soon.
Fans can purchase tickets now for what promises to be one of the biggest combat sports events in Wales this summer.
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.
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