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Lee Selby transitions to bareknuckle boxing ahead of June debut

2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 22, 2026, 3:55 AM

Last updated Jun 22, 2026

Lee Selby transitions to bareknuckle boxing ahead of June debut
Summary

Former IBF featherweight champion Lee Selby is set to make his bareknuckle boxing debut against Italy's Antonio Rizzo in Cardiff on June 26. Selby, who retired in 2022, explained his decision was influenced by financial incentives, stating, "If the money's right, I'll fight." Despite understanding the risks, he describes bareknuckle boxing as a stripped-back form of fighting and expresses a desire to regain purpose in the sport after two years away. His signing reflects a growing trend, as other former boxing champions also move into bareknuckle bouts.

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Status Watch
  • •Lee Selby signed a four-fight deal with BKB.
  • •Bareknuckle debut against Antonio Rizzo occurs on June 26 in Cardiff.
  • •Selby previously defended his IBF title four times before retiring.
  • •Financial incentives played a key role in Selby's decision to fight.
  • •Growing popularity of bareknuckle boxing since its U.S. sanctioning in 2018.
Latest Updates
  • 3:55 AMYahoo Sports — Why a world champion boxer has gone bareknuckle
  • 3:55 AMBBC Sport — Why a world champion boxer has gone bareknuckle
What they're saying
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Former IBF featherweight boxing champion Lee Selby explains the reasons behind his decision to take up bareknuckle boxing.

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Former IBF featherweight boxing champion Lee Selby explains the reasons behind his decision to take up bareknuckle boxing.

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