Tenaglia’s Forward Pressure Earned a Narrow Route Back
Franco Tenaglia defeated Ben Bonner by split decision at BKFC 83 on October 25, 2025, in Rome. Two judges favored Tenaglia 48–47, while the third returned the same score for Bonner after their five-round lightweight tournament semifinal at Palazzo dello Sport.
The former champion returned with another belt opportunity in reach
Tenaglia had beaten Tony Soto for the lightweight championship in October 2024. A later visa problem prevented a planned United States defense, and he entered the Rome tournament seeking a route back to the title.
Bonner brought interim championship status into the semifinal. The matchup therefore carried clear significance for both men beyond adding another victory to their records.
Pressure met movement throughout the contest
Tenaglia advanced and sought control of the center, making Bonner work to keep distance. Bonner used footwork and longer-range boxing to score while trying to avoid being trapped in exchanges.
The pursuit also left Tenaglia open to replies. Both fighters landed to the head and body, and the contest remained close enough to require a divided verdict.
The semifinal win advanced Tenaglia without awarding the championship
Tenaglia’s attacking approach persuaded two judges and secured his place in the final. Bonner’s effective work earned the remaining scorecard, but not the overall decision.
The next tournament opponent was to come from Austin Trout’s rematch with Luis Palomino in the other semifinal. Tenaglia left Rome closer to regaining the lightweight belt, while the championship itself remained to be decided in the subsequent final.
Sources
- Noticias de Brown: tactics and title background
- BKFC report: semifinal scores and tournament route
- Fightmag: Rome event and completed distance
