James DeGale Beats Matt Floyd at BKFC 81
DeGale Survives Chaos to Earn Unanimous Decision in Manchester
BKFC 81 delivered a night of raw violence and unpredictable drama, and James DeGale’s bare-knuckle debut was no exception. The former Olympic gold medalist and two-time IBF boxing champion stepped into the squared circle on September 27, 2025, at the AO Arena in Manchester, England, and walked away with a unanimous decision win over Matt Floyd (48-43, 48-43, 47-44).
According to BKFC.com, DeGale’s performance was equal parts gritty and chaotic. He showed flashes of his boxing pedigree with sharp counters and slick movement, but the bout was marred by multiple point deductions and wild exchanges that tested his composure.
Floyd Pushes the Pace, But DeGale’s Experience Prevails
Matt Floyd came to fight. From the opening bell, he pressured DeGale with looping hooks and aggressive clinch work, forcing the former champ into uncomfortable territory. Floyd landed several clean shots and appeared to rattle DeGale in Round 2, but his momentum was stunted by fouls and defensive lapses.
Despite the chaos, DeGale’s ring IQ and veteran savvy allowed him to weather the storm. He adjusted his timing, picked his shots, and controlled the final rounds with cleaner work and better foot positioning.
A New Chapter for DeGale in Combat Sports
With this win, James DeGale officially enters the bare-knuckle ranks with a victory, but questions remain about his long-term viability in BKFC. The Manchester crowd gave him a hero’s welcome, but future matchups will demand sharper execution and cleaner discipline.
Potential opponents include Jonny Graham, who captured the BKFC British Lightweight Title on the same card, or a high-profile clash with Aaron Chalmers, who also scored a TKO win at BKFC 81.
BKFC’s UK expansion continues to gain momentum, and DeGale’s debut—flawed but victorious—adds star power and intrigue to the promotion’s growing roster.
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Tags: BKFC, Bare-Knuckle Boxing
