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Former UFC flyweight title contender John Dodson is about to embark on a new chapter in his combat sports journey, as he gears up to compete for the inaugural flyweight championship in the bare-knuckle arena.
The Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship made an exciting announcement on Thursday, revealing that Dodson will square off against JR. Ridge in a highly anticipated showdown for the flyweight title at BKFC 48. The event is scheduled to take place on August 11 at the Tingley Coliseum in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Dodson, a two-time challenger for the UFC flyweight title, fell short in his bids to dethrone Demetrious Johnson in 2013 and 2015. After his second defeat, Dodson moved up to the bantamweight division, where he competed for several years.
However, last year, he returned to the 125-pound weight class, making his BKFC debut with an impressive 40-second victory over Ryan Benoit. Dodson followed up on his success by securing a 1:41-second knockout of former interim bantamweight champion Jarod Grant at KnuckleMania 3, solidifying his shot at the flyweight title.
In stark contrast, Ridge has built his entire career within the BKFC organization. The 37-year-old Filipino fighter is currently riding a two-fight winning streak in the promotion, with his most recent victory coming against Chance Wilson at BKFC 32. Ridge's impressive performances have earned him the opportunity to face off against Dodson for the coveted flyweight title.
While no additional fights have been announced for the BKFC 48 fight card at this time, the forthcoming clash between Dodson and Ridge promises to be a thrilling affair. Both fighters will undoubtedly bring their unique skills and relentless spirit to the squared circle, aiming to etch their names in the history books as the first-ever BKFC flyweight champion.
As Dodson looks to add a new accolade to his impressive combat sports resume, the bare-knuckle landscape welcomes his electrifying presence. Fans of the sport can eagerly anticipate the clash of styles and sheer determination that will unfold when Dodson and Ridge step into the ring on August 11.
With the flyweight title on the line, BKFC 48 promises to deliver a night of thrilling bare-knuckle action, and both Dodson and Ridge will leave no stone unturned as they vie for championship glory.