Former IBF featherweight world champion Lee Selby is set to make an unexpected return to combat sports, nearly four years after his last professional boxing appearance. Now 38 years old, the Welshman has signed a multi-fight agreement with BKB Bare Knuckle Boxing, marking a dramatic new chapter in his fighting career.
Selby was part of a golden era for British boxing, a period when the UK boasted double-digit world champions. He captured the IBF featherweight title during that run and went on to defend it five times before losing the belt to Josh Warrington. Subsequent defeats to George Kambosos and Gustavo Lemos followed, with Selby last competing in March 2022.
After a lengthy absence, Selby believes the time is right to return—albeit under very different rules. “I’ve achieved everything in gloved boxing – from regional titles to defending my world title five times,” Selby said. “Now, bare knuckle is calling. It’s the original, no-filter version of boxing, and I’m excited to bring my speed, skill, and experience to BKB.”
BKB Bare Knuckle is already home to several notable former world champions, including Paulie Malignaggi and Yuriorkis Gamboa, and Selby has made his intentions clear within the promotion. “I’m here to win another world title and show why I’m still one of the best,” he added.
Details regarding Selby’s debut date and opponent in BKB are expected to be confirmed soon. After nearly four years away from competition, the former world champion is ready to test himself once more, this time in the rawest form of the sport.
Image Credit: Sky Sports