David Rickels has signed with Bare Knuckle FC after nine years with Bellator MMA, per an Instagram post from his management company.
Rickels is Bellator’s all-time most prolific fighter, with 23 bouts under his belt. He recently became a free agent and is now set to headline for the bare knuckle boxing promotion’s eleventh event, which takes place March 14 in Wichita, Kan.
Rickels’ manager, Oren Hodak, confirmed the move in a statement (h/t MMAJunkie).
Dave is excited to headline for BK on their debut in Wichita. It is an opportunity that we just could not pass up. MMA fights are still on the radar for ‘Caveman’ as we explore the world of free agency. When you have an athlete that is truly an entertainer inside and out of the cage, opportunities will always be there. We still have a great relationship with Bellator and will continue conversations with them as well. But for now his next epic walkout will be for BK.
Olympian Nico Hernandez will debut for the promotion on the same card.