Matt Floyd vs James DeGale: BKFC Light Heavyweight Fight Preview and Analysis
The Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) is heading to Manchester with a blockbuster showdown on September 27, 2025. Former boxing world champion James DeGale will make his bare-knuckle debut against Australian powerhouse Matt “The Jedi” Floyd in a light heavyweight clash that has fans buzzing with anticipation. The event, BKFC 81, takes place at the AO Arena and will stream worldwide on DAZN.
The Return of James DeGale
James DeGale is one of Britain’s most decorated fighters. A 2008 Olympic gold medalist and a two-time world champion, he retired from boxing in 2019 after a loss to Chris Eubank Jr. With a record of 29 wins, 3 losses, and 1 draw, DeGale was known for his slick southpaw style, counter-punching, and ring intelligence. Now, at 39 years old, he is stepping into an entirely new arena.
This marks DeGale’s first bare-knuckle fight. After several years out of the ring, questions loom about his timing, durability, and ability to adapt to the brutal realities of fighting without gloves. Still, his experience at the highest level of professional boxing gives him a strategic edge few BKFC debutants possess.
The Rise of Matt Floyd
Across the ring will stand Matt Floyd, a fighter with serious knockout power and a hunger to make a statement. The Australian has compiled a strong boxing résumé with 15 wins and 2 defeats, collecting WBC Asia and WBO titles along the way. Unlike DeGale, Floyd is still in his competitive prime and has remained active in recent years.
Floyd is also making his BKFC debut, and the transition from gloved boxing to bare knuckle is no small step. But his aggressive style and willingness to engage could be tailor-made for the format. With no gloves dulling the impact, his punching power could be even more dangerous.
What Makes This Fight Compelling
This clash is fascinating because both men are entering unknown territory. DeGale brings experience, skill, and composure, but he has been inactive for years and is now facing a younger, fresher fighter in a format that amplifies toughness and durability. Floyd, on the other hand, lacks DeGale’s elite résumé but compensates with power and hunger.
The Manchester crowd adds another layer of intrigue. Fighting at home, DeGale will feel the weight of expectation, while Floyd can embrace the underdog role and fight with nothing to lose.
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Strengths and Weaknesses
James DeGale’s main strength is his tactical IQ. He knows how to control range, pace, and timing, which could frustrate an aggressive opponent. However, age, ring rust, and the dangers of bare-knuckle combat pose major risks. Cuts, swelling, and hand injuries could undo his plans quickly.
Matt Floyd’s strengths lie in his power and recent activity. He is used to being in the heat of battle and has shown knockout ability throughout his career. Yet, his lack of experience at the elite level and potential over-eagerness could leave him vulnerable to counters from the savvy DeGale.
How the Fight Could Play Out
If Floyd presses forward early, he may look to overwhelm DeGale and land a fight-ending shot before the veteran can settle into rhythm. This strategy could capitalize on DeGale’s layoff and force him into uncomfortable exchanges.
DeGale, on the other hand, will aim to weather the storm, stay composed, and pick his shots. If he can drag Floyd into the later rounds, his experience may shine through. Bare-knuckle fights often end with cuts and attrition, so toughness could be the deciding factor.
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