Tiger Shroff, the Indian film star known for his martial arts skills, has joined Conor McGregor on the board as Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) and Bare Knuckle Fight League (BKFL) launch in India. The expansion, led by World League of Fighters (WLF), brings a team-based bare-knuckle league to the country for the first time. Events are set to start in 2026, aiming to tap into India's huge fan base for combat sports.
Background
Bare knuckle fighting has grown fast around the world in recent years. Fighters compete without gloves, using only their fists wrapped in tape. BKFC started in the US and has held events in places like Dubai. Last year, WLF put on a big sold-out show there that drew huge crowds.
WLF holds the license for BKFC in India. The group was co-founded by Rajesh Banga, Sunil Mathew, and Siraj Gill. They work with BKFC founder David Feldman and McGregor, who is a global partner. India has over 1.4 billion people, many with a long history in martial arts like wrestling and kickboxing. Sports viewership is rising fast, making it a prime spot for new leagues.
This push comes as BKFC keeps expanding. The group just wrapped up events in 2025 and has more lined up, like BKFC 86 this weekend at Mohegan Sun. Fighters there are battling for titles, showing the sport's momentum heading into India.
Key Details
WLF has brought in new leaders for the India launch. Parag Sanghvi, a film producer, and Tiger Shroff joined the board. Rahul Saxena is the new CEO. He has experience growing big global brands.
The league will feature teams for the first time in bare knuckle history. Six teams start it off: Crushers, Punishers, Warriors, Phantoms, Gladiators, and Infernos. Fighters will compete in high-stakes matches as part of these franchises. This format makes the sport quicker and more exciting for fans.
Events kick off in 2026. Details on venues and fight cards will come later. The goal is to build Indian fighters into global stars and draw millions of viewers.
Leadership Statements
Key figures shared their views on the launch.
“India is not just a market — it is the future of global combat sports. Together with BKFC, BKFL, and WLF, we are building an ecosystem that will develop Indian fighters, create global stars, and deliver top fight entertainment to millions of fans.” – Rajesh Banga, Sunil Mathew, and Siraj Gill
“India has warriors in its DNA. What we’re building with BKFC and BKFL in India will be something the world has never seen before. This is not just expansion — this is a revolution.” – Conor McGregor
“Honoured to stand alongside Conor McGregor as we create something truly historic for Indian sport. This is more than a fight — it’s a global movement, and history is being written.” – Tiger Shroff
These words show the high hopes for the project.
What This Means
India's entry changes the game for bare knuckle fighting. The country has a massive audience ready for live events and broadcasts. With teams like Crushers and Warriors, fans can build loyalties much like in cricket or football leagues. This could pull in new viewers who follow stars like Shroff.
Local talent will get a shot at pro fights. Many young athletes train in gyms across cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore. WLF plans to scout and train them, turning raw skills into top bouts. Over time, Indian fighters might challenge top names from the US or Europe.
For BKFC, India opens a key market. The group already streams fights worldwide and has a library of over 200 hours. Adding India boosts ticket sales, sponsorships, and media deals. Brands in sports gear, energy drinks, and films could jump in.
Shroff's role adds star power. His movies often show fight scenes, and he trains in martial arts. Pairing him with McGregor, a UFC legend, mixes Bollywood appeal with international grit. This blend could make events feel like big movie premieres.
The team format sets this apart from one-on-one fights. Fans will watch rivalries build between squads over seasons. It mirrors successful leagues like Indian Premier League in cricket, which pack stadiums and TV ratings.
Safety rules will follow global standards. Fighters get medical checks, and bouts have referees to stop unfair hits. India's sports bodies may need to approve venues and formats, but the buzz suggests quick green lights.
Economically, it creates jobs. Event staff, coaches, promoters, and broadcasters will hire locals. Cities bidding for events could see tourism spikes, much like boxing nights draw crowds.
Challenges exist. Bare knuckle is rougher than gloved fights, so some fans or regulators might push back. Weather in India means indoor arenas are likely. Still, the leadership's track record—from Dubai sellouts to BKFC's US growth—points to success.
First fights in 2026 give time to build hype. Tryouts, like recent ones in Philadelphia, could happen in India soon. Fighters from the streets to dojos might sign up, starting a new chapter.
This launch positions India as a hub, not just a stop. With McGregor and Shroff leading, bare knuckle could rival MMA here. Fans get front-row seats to a sport on the rise.
