Sean Wheelock’s Unified Rules Revolutionized Bare-Knuckle Fighting and Shaped BKFC’s Future

When the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) debuted in 2018, it faced numerous hurdles. Few athletic commissions were willing to sanction bare-knuckle fights, leaving the promotion with limited options. Fast forward seven years and the sport has seen tremendous growth, largely due to the establishment of unified rules for bare-knuckle fighting, spearheaded by veteran commentator Sean Wheelock.

In 2023, the unified rules for bare-knuckle fighting were officially ratified during the Association of Boxing Commissions and Combative Sports’ annual convention in Las Vegas. Wheelock, who played a pivotal role in drafting these rules, emphasized their significance.

“That was the game-changer in this sport,” he remarked.

The adoption of these rules opened doors for states like California and Pennsylvania, enabling BKFC to expand its footprint significantly.

Wheelock’s efforts didn’t stop at creating the rules. Recognizing the need for education, he began teaching referees, judges, and even fighters about the unique aspects of bare-knuckle fighting. His seminars have become a massive success, attracting participants from across the U.S. and Canada.

“I was hoping we’d have 40 people. We sold out on the judges with 120,” he said, highlighting the growing interest in understanding the sport’s nuances.

The unified rules addressed misconceptions about scoring and officiating in bare-knuckle fighting. For instance, the clinch—a tactic borrowed from MMA—was clarified as an active part of the sport, unlike boxing’s quick breaks. Scoring knockdowns also required a new approach due to the frequency and types of falls unique to bare-knuckle. Judges were trained to prioritize impactful punches over superficial cuts, with Wheelock stressing, “Don’t get seduced by blood as a judge.”

Studies by the Association of Ringside Physicians showed that bare-knuckle fighting while leading to more cuts, resulted in fewer concussions and hospitalizations compared to MMA and boxing. This data reinforced the importance of the unified rules in maintaining fighter safety.

Wheelock draws parallels between the growth of bare-knuckle fighting and MMA’s early days, believing its acceptance will only increase.