Get ready for a bombshell in the boxing world: a legendary fighter who once went toe-to-toe with the likes of Terence Crawford, Devin Haney, and Gervonta Davis is stepping back into the ring after a four-year hiatus. But here’s where it gets controversial—this time, it’s not in the traditional squared circle. Yuriorkis Gamboa, the Cuban Olympic Gold Medalist and former WBA featherweight and interim lightweight champion, is making a bold switch to BKB Bare Knuckle Boxing at the age of 44. Yes, you read that right—bare knuckle. And this is the part most people miss: Gamboa’s career, once tipped for greatness, took a turn after losses to Crawford, Haney, and Davis, but he’s not done proving himself yet.
Gamboa’s journey in traditional boxing was nothing short of remarkable. He held prestigious titles and even challenged Crawford for the full lightweight belt, though he fell short. His battles with Haney and Gervonta ‘Tank’ Davis further solidified his place as a fierce competitor, but they also highlighted the challenges he faced in reaching the pinnacle of the sport. Now, after his last fight in April 2022—a loss to Isaac Cruz—Gamboa is reinventing himself in a discipline that’s as raw as it gets. Is this a desperate move or a genius career reboot? You decide.
In his own words, Gamboa is thrilled about the transition: ‘Bare knuckle boxing is the oldest form of boxing. After winning an Olympic gold medal and world championships, I’m now focused and excited to become the BKB Bare Knuckle World Champion. I’m going to showcase my skills and prove why I belong at the top of this sport.’ It’s a bold statement from a fighter who’s no stranger to high-stakes challenges. But will his traditional boxing prowess translate to the brutal world of bare knuckle?
BKB founder Mike Vasquez is all in on Gamboa’s potential. ‘It’s an honor to welcome Yuriorkis to bare knuckle. I can’t wait to see his skills and pedigree on display in the trigon. With incredible Cuban fighters already on our roster, including our heavyweight world champion, Gamboa’s addition is a game-changer. This year, we’re expecting more elite fighters to join our global roster of over 200 athletes from 30+ countries.’
Gamboa’s bare knuckle debut is expected to be announced soon, and the boxing world is buzzing with anticipation. But here’s the real question: Can a 44-year-old Olympian dominate in a sport as unforgiving as bare knuckle boxing? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—is Gamboa’s comeback a triumph in the making or a risky gamble? One thing’s for sure: this story is far from over.
