Platinum Perry and Lil' Heathen Collide: A Comprehensive Guide to BKFC 82

Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) is set to ignite the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, on Saturday, October 4, as Mike "Platinum" Perry squares off against Jeremy "Lil’ Heathen" Stephens in a highly anticipated welterweight showdown at BKFC 82. The event marks a significant moment for both fighters, who have found renewed success in the burgeoning bare-knuckle scene after storied careers in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC).

Perry, a fighter known for his aggressive style and unwavering confidence, has become a marquee name for BKFC since transitioning from mixed martial arts. His undefeated 5-0 record in the promotion, punctuated by a series of decisive knockout victories, has solidified his status as a top draw. Perry’s journey to bare-knuckle prominence began after parting ways with the UFC, where he competed in a series of memorable, albeit inconsistent, performances. Since then, he has revitalized his career, captivating audiences with his relentless pressure and willingness to engage in brutal exchanges.

Stephens, a veteran of the fight game with a reputation for explosive power, has also found a new lease on his career in BKFC. After a long tenure in the UFC, where he competed as a featherweight and lightweight, Stephens made the switch to bare-knuckle fighting, showcasing his knockout prowess in a different arena. His BKFC record stands at a perfect 3-0, with notable victories over former UFC champion Eddie Alvarez and seasoned bantamweight Jimmie Rivera.

Perry’s Rise to Bare-Knuckle Stardom

Perry’s impact on BKFC has been nothing short of transformative. His willingness to face all comers and his penchant for delivering highlight-reel finishes have made him a fan favorite. Since joining the promotion, Perry has defeated a string of tough opponents, including Thiago Alves, Eddie Alvarez, and former UFC middleweight champion Luke Rockhold. His victory over Michael "Venom" Page, an active UFC contender, further solidified his reputation as a legitimate force in the bare-knuckle world.

Beyond his BKFC exploits, Perry ventured into the world of crossover boxing, facing Jake Paul in a high-profile bout. While Perry lost the decision, his willingness to test himself against a popular figure like Paul demonstrated his ambition and marketability.

Perry’s aggressive style and relentless pressure have proven to be well-suited for bare-knuckle fighting. His ability to close the distance, coupled with his powerful striking, has allowed him to overwhelm opponents and secure impressive knockout victories. His confidence and willingness to engage in wild exchanges have made him one of the most exciting fighters to watch in BKFC.

Stephens’ Second Act in BKFC

Stephens, a veteran of over 50 professional fights, has revitalized his career since joining BKFC. After years of competing in the UFC, where he established himself as a dangerous striker with knockout power, Stephens made the transition to bare-knuckle fighting, seeking a new challenge and an opportunity to showcase his skills.

Stephens’ BKFC debut was a resounding success, as he stopped former UFC champion Eddie Alvarez in a thrilling back-and-forth battle. He followed that victory with another impressive performance, knocking out Jimmie Rivera, a seasoned bantamweight with a reputation for toughness. These victories demonstrated that Stephens’ power and aggression translated well to the bare-knuckle arena.

Stephens’ experience and fight IQ make him a dangerous opponent for anyone in BKFC. His ability to read opponents, coupled with his explosive striking, has allowed him to secure impressive victories. His willingness to engage in tough fights has earned him the respect of fans and fellow fighters alike.

Rivera Steps in to Face Mason

The BKFC 82 card has undergone a late change, as Timmy Mason steps in to replace UFC Hall of Famer Frankie Edgar, who was forced to withdraw from his scheduled bare-knuckle debut. Mason will now face Jimmie Rivera, who remains on the card despite the change in opponent.

Rivera, a veteran of the UFC bantamweight division, made his BKFC debut against Stephens, losing by way of unanimous decision. Rivera, known for his boxing skills and relentless pace, will look to rebound against Mason and establish himself as a contender in the BKFC bantamweight division.

Mason, a relative newcomer to the bare-knuckle scene, has an opportunity to make a name for himself against a seasoned veteran like Rivera. Mason, who has a background in boxing and mixed martial arts, will look to showcase his skills and secure a significant victory.

Event Details and How to Watch

BKFC 82 is set to take place on Saturday, October 4, at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. The event will be broadcast live on DAZN PPV, with the main card scheduled to begin at 7 p.m. ET. The PPV price for the event is $49.99.

BKFC 82 Fight Card (Subject to Change)

Main Event: Mike Perry vs. Jeremy Stephens
Jimmie Rivera vs. Timmy Mason
Additional bouts to be announced

Betting Odds

Odds for the event are available at BetMGM Sportsbook.

Conclusion

BKFC 82 promises to be an action-packed night of bare-knuckle fighting, headlined by the highly anticipated showdown between Mike Perry and Jeremy Stephens. With both fighters looking to continue their success in BKFC, this event is sure to deliver excitement and drama. The card also features a number of other compelling matchups, making it a must-watch for fans of combat sports.