The Bare-Knuckle Dream That Almost Was: Kai Stewart, Cody Garbrandt, and the Fight That Got Away
There’s something undeniably captivating about the world of combat sports—the raw intensity, the unfiltered emotion, and the stories that linger long after the final bell. One such story recently resurfaced, and it’s a doozy. Kai Stewart, the six-time defending BKFC featherweight champion, revealed he was on the verge of a monumental crossover fight with former UFC champion Cody Garbrandt. What makes this particularly fascinating is not just the matchup itself, but the why behind it. Stewart, having dominated his division, was hungry for a challenge that would prove he belongs in the conversation with the best of the best. Personally, I think this speaks to a broader trend in combat sports: fighters are no longer content to stay in their lanes. They want to test themselves against the elite, regardless of promotion or discipline.
The Almost-Fight That Could’ve Shaken the Combat Sports World
Stewart’s revelation about nearly facing Garbrandt in a bare-knuckle bout is more than just a missed opportunity—it’s a window into the complexities of fighter careers. In my opinion, what many people don’t realize is how fragile these deals can be. Garbrandt, nearing the end of his UFC contract, was seemingly on the cusp of stepping into the BKFC ring. But then, the UFC swooped in with an offer he couldn’t refuse. If you take a step back and think about it, this is a classic example of the power dynamics in combat sports. Promotions hold the cards, and fighters often have to choose between loyalty and opportunity. Stewart’s candidness about the situation—even calling out Garbrandt directly—shows a level of transparency that’s rare in this industry.
What This Really Suggests About the Future of Combat Sports
One thing that immediately stands out is Stewart’s willingness to fight anyone, anywhere. His callout of Garbrandt wasn’t just a publicity stunt; it was a statement of intent. He’s not just looking to win fights—he’s looking to make waves. From my perspective, this reflects a larger shift in the sport. Fighters are increasingly becoming their own brands, and they’re not afraid to chase high-profile matchups that transcend promotions. Stewart’s ambition to fight in multiple weight classes and maximize his exposure is a smart move in today’s landscape. What this really suggests is that the lines between promotions are blurring, and fighters are the ones driving the narrative.
The Psychology Behind the Callout
A detail that I find especially interesting is Stewart’s use of language when addressing Garbrandt. Calling him out with a phrase like “stop being a bitch and take the gloves off” isn’t just trash talk—it’s a psychological tactic. Stewart knows that bare-knuckle fighting is a different beast, and he’s challenging Garbrandt’s pride. This raises a deeper question: how much of combat sports is about physical skill versus mental fortitude? In my opinion, Stewart’s approach is calculated. He’s not just trying to get under Garbrandt’s skin; he’s trying to prove a point about his own toughness and versatility.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Stewart?
Stewart’s upcoming fight at Fenway Park on August 29th is more than just another title defense—it’s a stepping stone to bigger things. Personally, I think he’s positioning himself as the face of BKFC, someone who’s not afraid to take on all comers. His willingness to fight in multiple weight classes and his focus on maximizing exposure show a fighter who’s thinking long-term. If you take a step back and think about it, Stewart is doing exactly what every fighter should: staying active, staying relevant, and staying hungry.
Final Thoughts: The Fight That Still Could Be
While the Stewart vs. Garbrandt fight didn’t happen this time, the door isn’t completely closed. Stewart’s confidence and Garbrandt’s recent UFC struggles could make this matchup even more intriguing down the line. What makes this particularly fascinating is the potential for a narrative arc—the underdog from BKFC taking on the former UFC champ. In my opinion, this fight would be about more than just two athletes; it would be about the evolution of combat sports.
So, will we see Stewart and Garbrandt face off in the bare-knuckle ring someday? Only time will tell. But one thing’s for sure: Kai Stewart isn’t going anywhere, and neither is his ambition.
