February 17, 2023 11:05 pm ET
Former NFL star and UFC veteran Greg Hardy made his first stroll to the BKFC ring, however issues didn’t go as he deliberate.
At BKFC Knucklemania 3 at Tingley Coliseum in Albuquerque, N.M., Hardy took of the gloves for the primary time in his combating profession to face Josh Watson, a former MMA fighter who entered with bareknuckle expertise. After surviving an preliminary storm, Hardy discovered himself on the receiving finish of a devastating knockout, spoiling his bareknuckle debut.
Watson got here out quick tagging Hardy with sharp punches. Hardy was capable of circle away and reset to get his bearings, seeking to settle into the battle. As soon as taking management of the middle of the ring, Hardy started working behind a left jab that saved Watson on the skin.
Nevertheless, issues modified within the closing seconds of the spherical when Watson landed a crushing left hook that despatched Hardy crashing into the inflexible ropes, which prevented him from hitting the canvas. Counting as a knockdown, Hardy was given a standing eight rely, and referee Dan Miragliotta allowed the battle to proceed.
Down goes Greg Hardy!! #KnuckleMania3 pic.twitter.com/JHF5evpoNg
— FITE (@FiteTV) February 18, 2023 Between rounds, a big gash over the left eye of Watson triggered concern from the ringside physician, however he was cleared to start the second spherical.
Within the opening seconds, Watson rushed Hardy once more, this time connecting with an enormous punch that may ship Hardy crashing to the mat as soon as and for all. After assessing Hardy’s situation, Miragliotta known as a cease to the battle as Watson started his celebration.
UPSET CITY!!! Josh Watson stops Greg Hardy! #KnuckleMania3 pic.twitter.com/qFrv28eoq7
— FITE (@FiteTV) February 18, 2023
Watson, 40, entered Friday’s bout on the heels of a first-round stoppage of Kyle McElroy at BKFC 28 in August. As an MMA fighter, Watson gained six of 10 bouts, ending most of his opponents within the opening body.
Hardy, 34, examined his palms in conventional gloved boxing after his UFC exit final March. He defeated Mike Prepare dinner and Hasim Rahman Jr. in a pair of bouts, resulting in his signing with BKFC in January.
