Ben Bonner Outworks Tony Soto to Claim Interim Lightweight
Ben Bonner delivered a gritty, high-volume performance on June 21, 2025, defeating Tony Soto by unanimous decision to capture the BKFC interim lightweight title in Fort Worth, Texas. The judges scored the five-round war 48-45, 49-46, and 47-46, all in favor of Bonner, who showcased relentless pressure, superior conditioning, and tactical precision.
Bonner’s Pressure Breaks Soto’s Rhythm
From the opening bell, Bonner (5-0, 2 KOs BKFC) pushed the pace, walking Soto down behind a stiff jab and looping hooks. Soto (4-2 BKFC), known for his explosive counters and brawler mentality, struggled to find consistent rhythm as Bonner’s volume and footwork kept him off balance.
The turning point came in Round 3, when Bonner landed a series of clean right hands that visibly stunned Soto and shifted momentum. Soto rallied in the fourth, landing his best shots of the night, but Bonner’s output and ring control sealed the final round and the decision.
A New Force in the Lightweight Division
Bonner’s win marks a major milestone in his bare-knuckle career, elevating him into title contention and setting the stage for a unification bout with reigning BKFC lightweight champion Luis Palomino. With his aggressive style and iron chin, Bonner has quickly become a fan favorite and a legitimate threat in the division.
What’s Next for Bonner?
BKFC President David Feldman confirmed that Bonner will likely face Palomino in early 2026, possibly headlining a major card in Miami or Albuquerque. The matchup promises fireworks, with Bonner’s pressure style clashing against Palomino’s veteran savvy and counter-striking.
Soto, despite the loss, remains a top-tier contender and could be matched against the winner of Elvin Brito vs. James Lilley to stay in the title mix.
BKFC 76 Fight Night Highlights
- Ben Bonner def. Tony Soto – Unanimous Decision (48-45, 49-46, 47-46)
- Andrei Arlovski def. Josh Copeland – TKO (Doctor Stoppage), Round 4
- Jessica Eye def. Mariya Agapova – Unanimous Decision
- Kenzie Morrison def. Alex Davis – TKO, Round 1
- JC Deleon def. Ruben Warr – TKO (Retirement), Round 3
- Anthony Garrett def. Haze Wilson – TKO, Round 1
- Willie Gates def. Brandon Meneses – KO, Round 1
- Cameron Delano def. Jesse Desrosier – TKO, Round 3
- Jeremy Sauceda def. Israel Rodriguez – TKO, Round 1
- Roderick Stewart def. James Gray – Unanimous Decision
Final Word
Ben Bonner’s victory over Tony Soto wasn’t just a win—it was a declaration. With the interim title around his waist and a showdown with Luis Palomino looming, Bonner has officially arrived as a major player in BKFC’s lightweight division.
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Tags: BKFC, Bare-Knuckle Boxing
