Conor McGregor, BKFC announce $25 million tournament
Conor McGregor held a "Champions Summit" on Thursday to announce big plans for Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship in 2026.
During the press conference, McGregor introduced a $25 million "Baddest Man" tournament that will begin in March 2026. A total of 32 fighters will be involved spanning multiple weights.
The winner of the event will earn $15 million with the runner-up securing $1 million. The remaining fighters will all earn part of the pot, including $500,000 to the third and fourth place finishers.
Fights will start in Los Angeles and end in the Middle East, taking place over a year to account for possible injuries suffered in bouts. A women's tournament will also take place, likely starting in the middle of next year.
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Along with that news, BKFC announced that they would be creating an equity program for champions and veteran fighters of the promotion to become part-owners.
"Do you understand how incredible that is fo rour combatants to be rewarded in that way?" McGregor said (thanks to MMA Fighting for the quotes). "To join this rise, truly be on the board with us as we rise up the ladder of combat sport. For me, I fought my heart and soul, I gave everything to the rise of a company and I got nothing for it.
"Here we are, our company, my company, we give back to the fighters who bleed for us. We are in this together."
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