Floyd Mayweather’s ex-rival who lost in most controversial KO signs bare-knuckle boxing deal

Victor Ortiz, who suffered controversial defeat to Floyd Mayweather, has inked a huge deal to fight in bare-knuckle boxing.

Ortiz achieved a great deal in the traditional boxing ranks, reigning as WBC welterweight champion in 2011 at the peak of his powers.

BKB

‘Vicious’ fought some leading operators during his time in the ring including Marcos Maidana and most famously Mayweather 15 years ago.

Now nearly four years on from his last outing, Ortiz has agreed a deal to ditch the gloves.

He has signed a multi-fight, multi-year agreement with BKB and will make his first appearance in the bare-knuckle trigon imminently.

His fights will be broadcast live on the talkSPORT Boxing YouTube channel.

On the move, he said: “I’ve accomplished so much in gloved boxing – from winning a world title to battling the best in the world.

“Now, bare knuckle is the next challenge. It’s the purest, most intense version of the sport, and I’m pumped to bring my power, heart, and experience to BKB.

“I’m coming to win another world title and prove I’ve still got it. “

Mike Vazquez, Founder of BKB, added: “Victor Ortiz is a true legend with a world-class resume and star power that transcends boxing.

“We’re thrilled to welcome him to our roster. His knockout power and championship drive will electrify the trigon.

“With fighters like Gamboa and Malignaggi paving the way for elite crossovers, Victor’s signing proves BKB is the destination for icons chasing new greatness.”

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Ortiz follows in the footsteps of some major boxing stars in making the switch to bare-knuckle including Paulie Malignaggi.

Yuriorkis Gamboa and Lee Selby have also recently inked deals to a fast growing stable.

Ortiz’s famous defeat to Mayweather

His huge night with Mayweather under the bright lights of Las Vegas ended in huge controversy, as he was unable to defend his world title.

Ortiz mind-blowingly headbutted Mayweather in the fourth round having landed a flurry of shots on the undefeated legend.

He tried to apologise to the modern era icon, but made a fatal mistake leaving his guard down.

‘Money’ then seized his opportunity and floored him with a booming combination.

He was unable to beat the count and was sensationally stopped in that round, in a hugely controversial moment that rocked the boxing world.

As a result, Ortiz has always gunned for a rematch and was even close to facing Mayweather in an exhibition in 2024.

Boxing schedule

For all the upcoming fights and results this year, check out talkSPORT.com’s  boxing schedule.