Former UFC fighter Nathan Maness has recently made a high-profile transition to the world of bare-knuckle fighting, joining the ranks of the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC). In a recent interview with RG, Maness delved into the intricacies of his decision and his early experiences in the sport.
#BKFCdebut pic.twitter.com/brwmsOA6lS
— Nate Maness (@MayhemManess1) December 15, 2024
The transition from the octagon to the bare-knuckle boxing ring presented unique challenges for Maness, particularly during training camp. “It was a little different just going over to straight boxing, especially through camp. I almost felt like I wasn’t doing enough,” he admitted. However, he quickly adapted to the demands of the sport and found his footing.
One of the most surprising aspects of his transition was the impact of bare-knuckle punches. Contrary to popular belief, Maness found the experience comparable to wearing MMA gloves. “I had heard that it was a lot worse, man. But to be honest with you, it didn’t feel any worse than, you know, MMA gloves,” he revealed.
Maness’s debut fight proved to be a valuable learning experience. Despite limited information on his opponent, he showcased his adaptability and resilience. However, he expressed disappointment with the early stoppage, believing he could have turned the tide in the later rounds. “I really hate that they stopped it the way they did. I think it was getting ready to get really fun there in the fourth and fifth,” he stated.
#BKFC #Debut #Mayhem pic.twitter.com/hSixUwxzUM
— Nate Maness (@MayhemManess1) December 8, 2024
Looking ahead, Maness has ambitious goals for his BKFC career. With two fights remaining on his current contract, he’s eyeing a title shot. “I’d like to get a title fight before this contract’s over with,” he declared. He even hinted at the possibility of challenging for a title at 125 pounds after a successful run at 135 pounds.
Maness believes that his age and experience give him a significant advantage in BKFC. “I still feel like I’m pretty young. I still feel good. I’m still making weight,” he emphasized. He also highlighted the simplified nature of BKFC compared to MMA, likening it to a transition from chess to checkers.
The atmosphere at BKFC events has captivated Maness, who was impressed by the passionate and engaged fan base. “I can just tell from in the arena that I was in, man, the fans absolutely love it. Going nuts, screaming loud,” he recounted. He believes that the raw and intense nature of BKFC will attract fans who are seeking a more action-packed alternative to traditional MMA.
Maness is optimistic about the future of BKFC, drawing parallels to the early days of the UFC. He believes that the sport’s unique appeal will continue to draw in new fans and attract top-tier talent. With a focus on active competition and a desire to minimize wear and tear on his body, Maness is poised to make a significant impact on the BKFC landscape.
As Maness continues to evolve as a bare-knuckle fighter, he brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to the sport. His transition highlights the growing appeal of BKFC among established MMA fighters and could signal a shift in the combat sports landscape. With his skills, determination, and passion, Maness is well-positioned to become a major player in the future of BKFC.
