BKFC will host its first show in Philadelphia at the Wells Fargo Center on January 25, featuring a bout between local legend Eddie Alvarez and Jeremy Stephens, marking Alvarez’s return to his hometown after 14 years.
BKFC president David Feldman is heading back to his roots, and he’s not going alone. He’s bringing a Philly icon with him. On Tuesday, BKFC announced their first-ever show in Philadelphia. Exciting stuff! Former UFC champ Eddie Alvarez is set to face off against Jeremy Stephens. This epic bout will happen at the Wells Fargo Center on Jan. 25. The event’s got a catchy name too: BKFC KnuckleMania V.
Both Alvarez and Feldman hail from Philadelphia, making this event a homecoming of sorts. It’s the bare-knuckle promotion’s debut in Pennsylvania, thanks to the state athletic commission giving the green light in 2023. Feldman’s pumped about it. “That show’s going to be sick,” he told MMA Fighting back in September. “It’s going to be unbelievable.”
He even added, “It’s going to be the biggest moment of my professional career absolutely, that will be unbelievable.” You can feel the excitement, can’t you? As for Alvarez, this marks his third outing with BKFC after leaving behind UFC and ONE Championship gigs.
His debut was a hit—he beat Chad Mendes—but then stumbled with a TKO loss to Mike Perry. Now, he’s ready for a comeback, eager to wow his hometown crowd after more than 14 years away from Philly fights. Meanwhile, Stephens plans to crash the party. He’s been on fire with a 2-0 record in bare-knuckle matches against Jimmie Rivera and Bobby Taylor.
But wait, there’s more! More bouts are expected to be revealed soon for the Philadelphia card. Feldman hinted at booking Mike Perry for his first fight since losing to Jake Paul in July. Stay tuned—this card’s shaping up to be a banger!