Former World Champion Victor Ortiz Signs with BKB Bare Knuckle Boxing
Former Victor Ortiz is set to begin a new chapter in combat sports after signing a multi-fight deal with BKB Bare Knuckle Boxing. The former World Boxing Council Welterweight champion brings a professional boxing record of 33-7-3 into the fast-growing bare-knuckle promotion as he looks to add another title to his resume.
Ortiz, known for his aggressive style and knockout power, captured the WBC Welterweight championship in 2011 and spent years competing against some of the sport’s biggest names. Now, after accomplishing much in traditional boxing, the 37-year-old is embracing a new challenge inside BKB’s triangular ring known as the “Trigon.”
BKB has recently become a landing spot for high-profile boxing veterans transitioning into bare-knuckle competition. Among the notable names already competing in the promotion are Olympic gold medalist and former multi-division world champion Yuriorkis Gamboa and former IBF Featherweight champion Lee Selby. Another familiar face, former two-division world champion Paulie Malignaggi, earned a victory over Tyler Goodjohn at BKB 47 and is scheduled to challenge Rolando Dy for a BKB title on May 16 in Manchester.
Ortiz says the move represents an opportunity to test himself in the rawest version of the sport.
“I’ve accomplished so much in gloved boxing—from winning a world title to battling the best in the world,” Ortiz said. “Now, bare knuckle is the next challenge. It’s the purest, most intense version of the sport, and I’m pumped to bring my power, heart, and experience to BKB. I’m coming to win another world title and prove I’ve still got it. All glory to Jesus Christ.”
BKB founder Mike Vazquez believes Ortiz’s arrival is another major step in the promotion’s continued growth.
“Victor Ortiz is a true legend with a world-class resume and star power that transcends boxing,” Vazquez said. “His knockout power and championship drive will electrify the Trigon. With fighters like Gamboa and Malignaggi paving the way for elite crossovers, Victor’s signing proves BKB is the destination for icons chasing new greatness.”
BKB CEO David Tetreault echoed that excitement, noting his long-standing connection with Ortiz from his time working with Golden Boy Promotions.
“Victor Ortiz is a massive coup for our organization,” Tetreault said. “His world title experience, devastating power, and crossover appeal make this an incredible addition. Bringing a fighter of Victor’s caliber to BKB shows why we are the leading force in bare-knuckle boxing.”
Ortiz’s debut date has yet to be announced, but his arrival adds another recognizable name to the rapidly expanding BKB roster as the promotion continues blending established champions with emerging bare-knuckle talent.
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