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Jeremy Stephens took a bold risk heading into his fight against Eddie Alvarez at BKFC KnuckleMania 5, and now, as a free agent, he’s looking to capitalize on his success.
The veteran fighter delivered a career-defining performance in Philadelphia, breaking Alvarez’s jaw and forcing a stoppage in the third round. What makes his victory even more significant is that it was the final fight on his BKFC contract, giving him the leverage to negotiate a massive payday.
“I took a f*cking huge risk,” Stephens told MMA Fighting, explaining that he turned down a GFL contract to bet on himself.
Having been sidelined for a year after his win over Jimmie Rivera, Stephens entered free agency knowing he had to make a statement. And he did—in front of a record-breaking crowd, as BKFC’s KnuckleMania 5 surpassed the UFC’s previous combat sports attendance record.
Leading up to the fight, Stephens faced hostility from the Philadelphia crowd, with even UFC veteran Joe Pyfer talking trash at the pre-fight press conference. However, inside the ring, he silenced his critics. He dropped Alvarez twice in the third round before the former UFC champion’s corner stopped the fight. The following day, Alvarez confirmed that his jaw had been shattered early in the fight, making it impossible to continue.
Now, with his stock at an all-time high, Stephens is demanding the compensation he deserves.
“Now you’ve got to pay me,” he stated bluntly.
He clarified that he won’t settle for mediocre paychecks, emphasizing his desire for million-dollar fights. BKFC President David Feldman even admitted to betting on Alvarez, which only fueled Stephens' determination.
“You paid the wrong man. Now it’s my time. Ball’s in my court,” he declared.
While Stephens is exploring options, he remains open to re-signing with BKFC, provided they offer the right deal.
“Me and Feldman are cool. We don’t have a contract right now. I love working with them. I love the BKFC,” Stephens said, adding that he enjoys the raw, primal nature of the sport.
However, he won’t settle for anything less than what he’s worth, and whether it’s BKFC, UFC, or another major promotion, “The Heathen” is ready to cash in.