Fubo launches BKFC TV: First 24/7 bare knuckle fighting FAST channel

FuboTV, a leading sports-first live TV streaming platform, yesterday announced the launch of BKFC TV, the first free ad-supported streaming television (FAST) channel dedicated to bare knuckle fighting content. This groundbreaking collaboration between Fubo and Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) marks a significant milestone in the world of combat sports streaming, bringing 24/7 bare knuckle fighting content to a wider audience.

According to Pamela Duckworth, head of Fubo Studios, the decision to launch BKFC TV came in response to the overwhelming popularity of BKFC fight content on Fubo Sports, the company's existing FAST network. Duckworth noted that BKFC fights consistently rank among the top 10 most-watched programming on the network, highlighting the growing demand for this intense and unfiltered form of combat sports.

BKFC TV represents a major expansion of Fubo's commitment to combat sports content. The new channel will showcase BKFC's all-time greatest flagship events, BKFC Prospect Series events, and BKFC Fight Night events around the clock. This comprehensive coverage aims to satisfy the appetite of fight fans who crave access to high-energy bouts and the raw excitement that bare knuckle fighting offers.

The launch of BKFC TV comes at a time when bare knuckle fighting is experiencing a resurgence in popularity. Once considered a fringe sport, bare knuckle boxing has gained legitimacy and a dedicated following in recent years. BKFC, founded in 2018, has been at the forefront of this revival, organizing sanctioned events and attracting both seasoned boxers and mixed martial artists to compete in its unique format.

Bare knuckle fighting, as practiced in BKFC, differs from traditional boxing in several key aspects. Fighters compete without gloves, using only hand wraps that leave the knuckles exposed. Bouts take place in a circular ring known as "The Squared Circle," which features a scratch line where fighters must "toe the line" at the start of each round, ensuring intense, close-quarters action from the outset.

BKFC's ruleset is designed to blend the technical aspects of boxing with the raw intensity of bare knuckle combat. Fights consist of five two-minute rounds, a format that encourages aggressive engagement and often leads to dramatic, fast-paced encounters. The sport has attracted attention for its visceral nature and the skill required to compete effectively without the protection of gloves.

The partnership between Fubo and BKFC represents a significant step in the mainstreaming of bare knuckle fighting. By making BKFC content available on a dedicated FAST channel, Fubo is bringing this emerging sport to a potentially much larger audience. FAST channels, which are free to watch and supported by advertising, have become increasingly popular as consumers seek alternatives to traditional cable and satellite TV packages.

David Feldman, founder and CEO of BKFC, expressed enthusiasm about the launch of BKFC TV, citing the "phenomenal viewership" the organization has achieved on Fubo Sports. Feldman sees the dedicated channel as an opportunity to give fans "nonstop BKFC action any time of the day, any day of the week," potentially broadening the sport's fan base and increasing engagement with existing followers.

The technical specifications of BKFC TV's integration into Fubo's platform are noteworthy. The channel will be available as part of Fubo's subscription packages, which currently offer access to over 400 sports, news, and entertainment channels. This integration allows BKFC to leverage Fubo's established user base and streaming infrastructure while providing Fubo subscribers with exclusive combat sports content.

From a broader industry perspective, the launch of BKFC TV reflects the ongoing fragmentation and specialization of streaming content. As major streaming platforms compete for general audience share, niche services catering to specific interests are finding opportunities to thrive. Combat sports, with their dedicated and passionate fan bases, are particularly well-suited to this model.

The timing of BKFC TV's launch is strategic, coming as the combat sports landscape continues to evolve. With traditional boxing facing challenges and mixed martial arts reaching a plateau in some markets, bare knuckle fighting offers a fresh and exciting alternative for combat sports enthusiasts. The 24/7 availability of content on BKFC TV could play a crucial role in building and maintaining fan engagement between live events.

However, the growth of bare knuckle fighting is not without controversy. Critics have raised concerns about the safety of the sport, arguing that the lack of gloves increases the risk of hand injuries and facial lacerations. Proponents, including BKFC officials, counter that the absence of gloves actually leads to fewer concussions and brain injuries compared to traditional boxing, as fighters are less likely to sustain repeated blows to the head.

As BKFC TV begins broadcasting, it will be interesting to observe how this increased exposure affects the perception and popularity of bare knuckle fighting. The channel's success could potentially influence other combat sports organizations to explore similar dedicated streaming options, further transforming the way fans consume fight content.

Key facts about the launch of BKFC TV

• Announced on August 22, 2024
• First FAST channel dedicated to bare knuckle fighting
• Partnership between FuboTV Inc. and Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship
• Available as part of Fubo's subscription packages
• Offers 24/7 content including flagship events, prospect series, and fight nights
• BKFC fights consistently rank in top 10 most-watched programs on Fubo Sports
• Bare knuckle fights consist of five two-minute rounds
• BKFC was founded in 2018
• Fubo currently offers over 400 sports, news, and entertainment channels
• BKFC TV aims to provide nonstop action to fans any time, any day of the week