Bare-knuckle boxing has emerged as a captivating sport, drawing intrigue from combat sports enthusiasts and athletes alike. Among these fighters, current BKFC (Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship) featherweight champion Kai Stewart stands out as a representative of the sport’s evolving narrative. At 24 years old, Stewart has accumulated an impressive 7-0 record, showcasing not just skill but also a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities that bare-knuckle boxing presents.
Stewart’s journey in bare-knuckle boxing is anything but conventional. He points out the novelty of this sport — with no established coaching structure or clear directives, fighters like him are forging their paths. “There’s really no such thing as a bareknuckle boxing coach because it’s so new,” he stated, highlighting the largely uncharted territory that bare-knuckle boxing represents. Unlike other combat sports, where training methodologies and strategies are well-documented and taught, Stewart’s experience has been about improvisation and personal growth.
His reliance on individualized training reflects his view of fighting as a deeply personal endeavor. “I’m literally making this sport up as I go,” he shared, attributing much of his preparation to his girlfriend, who has supported him through extensive mitt training sessions. This hands-on approach has clearly paid off, leading him to monumental victories, including battles against seasoned fighters like former UFC contender Jimmie Rivera.
Before stepping into the spotlight of bare-knuckle boxing, Stewart’s foundation was built in wrestling and mixed martial arts (MMA). However, the allure of bare-knuckle boxing — including the financial benefits and the excitement of the fights — became too compelling to ignore. “The combat sports world doesn’t give a f*ck about us fighters, so I found my route,” he explained, emphasizing the drive to find his niche and evolve as a fighter.
His ascent in BKFC allowed him to transition from being just another fighter to becoming a champion. Miraculously, his focus shifted from merely making money or achieving fame to genuinely enjoying the sport and its unique nature. Many fighters often jump from MMA to boxing as a pathway to greater glory, but Stewart has embraced the unprecedented nature of bare-knuckle boxing and what it offers in terms of personal satisfaction and combat artistry.
Not one to limit himself, Stewart’s ambitions extend beyond bare-knuckle boxing. He has publicly expressed desires to explore potential matchups against well-known figures in the MMA world, such as Sean O’Malley. “I want to be a complete fighter whenever the superfight between me and Sean O’Malley happens,” Stewart remarked. His aspirations to challenge O’Malley reflect a broader desire to gauge his skills against elite competition, regardless of the promotion.
Their shared Montana roots create an intriguing narrative, with Stewart envisioning a high-stakes showdown in a stadium filled with thousands of roaring fans. “Let’s fill the Grizzlies Stadium in Montana,” he proposed, evoking the image of an outdoor spectacle that captures the essence of regional pride and competitive spirit. This dream, while ambitious, highlights Stewart’s willingness to embrace challenges and take risks in pursuit of greatness.
Redefining Legacy in Combat Sports
Ultimately, Stewart’s focus isn’t solely on financial gain or immediate recognition. He believes his role as a bare-knuckle fighter is to contribute to the evolution of the sport itself. “At this point, it’s legacy,” he asserted. His desire to inspire athletes and fans alike, combined with his pursuit of personal excellence, sets Stewart apart from many in the combat sports industry. He isn’t solely invested in building a career; he’s committed to elevating the profile of bare-knuckle boxing as a legitimate and respected sport.
Kai Stewart embodies the spirit of innovation and resilience that bare-knuckle boxing demands. He approaches each fight not just as a means to an end but as an opportunity to leave a mark that extends beyond mere victories. As he continues to dazzle audiences with his untamed style and determination, it’s clear that Stewart is not just a fighter — he’s a pioneer paving the way for a new era in combat sports, ensuring that bare-knuckle boxing might one day ascend to the same heights as its more established counterparts.