BYB Bare Knuckle Boxing Secures Vice TV Partnership
BYB Bare Knuckle Boxing has made a significant stride in its quest to dominate the combat sports landscape by securing a multi-year broadcast deal with Vice TV. This groundbreaking partnership marks a pivotal moment for BYB, as it becomes the first major sports acquisition for Vice TV, which is actively pivoting to a more sports-centric focus. The first BYB event to air on the network is scheduled for February 22, 2023, with BYB 34 taking place in Denver. This inaugural event will feature super lightweight champion Harry Gigliotti defending his title against Jon Barnard, while featherweight champion Helen Peralta will go head-to-head with Lailane Mota for the vacant super featherweight title.
A New Era for Vice TV
The announcement of the BYB Bare Knuckle Boxing deal is a clear indication of Vice TV’s strategic shift towards sports programming. Vice TV President Pete Gaffney expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, "We look forward to adding live BYB Bare Knuckle Boxing, our first live event series, as a mainstay of the Vice TV schedule as Vice Sports continues to fill its programming slate with compelling sports-themed docuseries, programs, live events, and podcasts." Gaffney’s comments underscore the network’s commitment to providing provocative and engaging sports content that resonates with their audience. The deal calls for 13 live events to air in prime time in 2025, with the majority of the cards expected to take place on Saturday nights.
The Allure of Bare-Knuckle Fighting
Bare-knuckle fighting has seen a resurgence in popularity over the past few years, and BYB Bare Knuckle Boxing has played a crucial role in this revival. The company’s unique three-sided trigon ring, which is billed as "the smallest fighting surface in combat sports," has contributed to the high energy and intensity of its matches. With a 90 percent knockout rate, BYB fights offer a raw and unfiltered experience that fans find both thrilling and visceral. This high-octane approach has helped BYB build a dedicated following and expand its footprint across the combat sports world. The company’s commitment to innovation and tradition has also set it apart from other organizations, making it a natural fit for Vice TV’s audience.
Competing in a Crowded Market
The rise of bare-knuckle fighting has not gone unnoticed, with other organizations like BKFC leading the way in promoting marquee events and featuring prominent fighters such as Mike Perry, Eddie Alvarez, and Jeremy Stephens. BKFC has already secured a broadcast deal with DAZN, a significant streaming platform, for its 2024 season. As BYB enters the fray with its Vice TV partnership, the competition in the bare-knuckle fighting industry is heating up. However, BYB’s distinctive approach and the growing popularity of the sport suggest that there is room for multiple players in this burgeoning market. The company’s ability to attract and retain top talent, combined with its innovative promotional strategies, positions it well to stand out in this competitive landscape.
The First Event: BYB 34 in Denver
The first BYB event to air on Vice TV, BYB 34, promises to be a spectacle that sets the tone for the partnership. The main event features Harry Gigliotti, the reigning super lightweight champion, defending his title against challenger Jon Barnard. Gigliotti, known for his explosive style and formidable striking, will need to bring his A-game to maintain his reign. The co-main event is equally compelling, with featherweight champion Helen Peralta facing Lailane Mota for the vacant super featherweight title. Peralta, a rising star in the women’s division, is eager to showcase her skills and add another belt to her collection. These high-stakes matches are sure to captivate the audience and demonstrate why BYB Bare Knuckle Boxing is a force to be reckoned with in the combat sports world.
The Future of Bare-Knuckle Fighting
As BYB Bare Knuckle Boxing and Vice TV embark on this new chapter, the future of bare-knuckle fighting looks brighter than ever. The partnership not only provides a platform for the sport to reach a wider audience but also validates its place in the broader combat sports ecosystem. With the growing interest in bare-knuckle fighting and the support of a major network like Vice TV, BYB is well-positioned to continue its ascent. The company’s commitment to delivering high-quality, entertaining events, coupled with the network’s focus on engaging sports content, sets the stage for a successful and enduring partnership. As the sport continues to evolve and gain mainstream acceptance, BYB Bare Knuckle Boxing is poised to play a leading role in shaping its future.
