Victor Ortiz Signs Multi-Fight Deal with Bare Knuckle Boxing

Former WBC Welterweight Champion Victor Ortiz has signed a multi-fight, multi-year agreement with Bare Knuckle Boxing (BKB), marking a new chapter in his professional combat sports career. The announcement signals a strategic move for BKB to attract a wider audience, leveraging Ortiz’s established name recognition and crossover appeal.

Ortiz’s Boxing Legacy

Ortiz, 33-7-3 with 25 KOs, is best known for winning the WBC Welterweight title from Andre Berto in 2011. He later faced Floyd Mayweather Jr. In a highly publicized bout that ended in a controversial stoppage after Ortiz appeared to headbutt Mayweather, leading to a swift knockout. The incident became a talking point in boxing, with Mayweather capitalizing on a perceived vulnerability. Berto won a rematch against Ortiz five years later.

Transition to Bare Knuckle Boxing

“I’ve accomplished so much in gloved boxing – from winning a world title to battling the best in the world. Now, bare knuckle is the next challenge. It’s the purest, most intense version of the sport, and I’m pumped to bring my power, heart, and experience to BKB. I’m coming to win another world title and prove I’ve still got it,” Ortiz stated.

BKB’s Strategic Acquisition

BKB CEO David Tetreault, a former executive at Golden Boy Promotions where he worked with Ortiz, emphasized the significance of the signing. “Victor Ortiz is a massive coup for our organization. His world title experience, devastating power, and crossover appeal make this an incredible addition. We’re excited to see him pursue bare knuckle dominance alongside our expanding lineup of world-class fighters.”

Mike Vazquez, Founder of BKB, added, “Victor Ortiz is a true legend with a world-class resume and star power that transcends boxing. We’re thrilled to welcome him to our roster. His knockout power and championship drive will electrify the trigon. With fighters like Gamboa and Malignaggi paving the way for elite crossovers, Victor’s signing proves BKB is the destination for icons chasing new greatness.”

Ortiz Beyond the Ring

Ortiz’s appeal extends beyond boxing, having appeared in television shows such as Dancing With the Stars and Hawaii Five-0, as well as Sylvester Stallone’s film, The Expendables, broadening his public profile.

No date has been set for Ortiz’s debut fight in the BKB trigon.