Filipino Champion Rolando Dy to Face Boxing Legend Paul Malignaggi in BKB Title Defense
In a highly anticipated clash of combat sports worlds, Filipino fighter Rolando Dy will defend his Bare Knuckle Boxing (BKB) super-welterweight title for the first time against former professional boxing champion Paul Malignaggi. The bout is scheduled for May 16, 2026, in Manchester, England, marking a significant event in the growing sport of bare-knuckle boxing.
Rolando Dy's Journey from UFC to BKB Champion
The 35-year-old Dy has emerged as one of the fastest-rising stars in the bare-knuckle boxing scene. Before transitioning to BKB, he built his foundation in mixed martial arts (MMA), including a stint in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) from 2017 to 2018. During his time in the UFC, Dy recorded one win and three losses, gaining valuable experience against top-level competition.
Dy made his BKB debut in 2022 with an impressive first-round knockout victory over Thailand's Apisit Sangmuang. After securing another win in 2023, he faced his first setback in 2024, losing by unanimous decision to Martin Reffell. However, Dy demonstrated remarkable resilience by bouncing back with knockout wins over Hayden Sherriff and Roberto Duran Jr. This impressive comeback earned him a title shot in 2025, where he defeated the previously undefeated Liam Rees by unanimous decision to capture the BKB super-welterweight championship.
Paul Malignaggi's Storied Career and BKB Transition
On the other side of the ring stands Paul Malignaggi, a 45-year-old boxing legend with a decorated professional career. Malignaggi is a two-division world champion who has faced some of the biggest names in boxing, including:
- Miguel Cotto
- The late Ricky Hatton
- Amir Khan
- Adrian Broner
- Shawn Porter
- Zab Judah
Malignaggi ventured into bare-knuckle boxing in 2019, losing a close decision to former UFC fighter Artem Lobov in his debut. He returned to the BKB ring last year, securing a split decision victory over Tyler Goodjohn. While his BKB record stands at 1-1, Malignaggi brings an extensive professional boxing resume of 36 wins, 8 losses, and 7 knockouts to this title challenge.
Fight Statistics and Significance
This championship bout presents an intriguing contrast of styles and experience. Rolando Dy boasts a BKB record of 5-1, with all five of his victories coming by way of knockout, showcasing his power and finishing ability. Paul Malignaggi, while less experienced in the bare-knuckle format, brings decades of elite boxing technique and championship pedigree to the contest.
The fight represents a significant moment for Filipino combat sports, as Dy aims to defend his title against one of boxing's most recognizable names. The Manchester event promises to draw international attention to the growing popularity of bare-knuckle boxing and the crossover appeal between traditional boxing and this emerging combat sport.
