The BKFC 90 event on May 30th will feature a high-stakes bout for the BKFC interim welterweight championship between Connor Tierney and Rico Franco II. LT Nelson, who previously defeated Franco, has shared his insights on this anticipated rematch.
Nelson, a fighter with a notable history against prominent UK bare-knuckle boxers, previously secured a significant victory over Rico Franco at BYB 10 in May 2022, knocking him out in the second round. This win came against Franco, who had already achieved accolades such as winning BKB’s Prizefighter lightweight tournament. Notably, Franco had previously defeated Connor Tierney with a quick first-round knockout at BKB 16 in March 2019.
When asked about his prediction for the upcoming BKFC rematch between Tierney and Franco, Nelson, speaking to Bare Knuckle Bowker, expressed:
“I’m not entirely sure. I don’t pay extremely close attention to all of it. However, I know Rico Franco is a tough competitor. Since our first fight, if he’s anything like me, he’s been working and improving constantly. I don’t watch the [Connor] Tierney guy fight much, so I don’t know a lot about him. But I’ve heard good things; he’s a formidable fighter.”
Further elaborating on the upcoming interim BKFC title clash at 165 pounds in the UK, Nelson continued [via Bare Knuckle Bowker]:
“Rico’s fights are always exciting. Both fighters will likely engage in a direct confrontation, standing toe-to-toe. Given their solid boxing skills, it should be a different kind of technical toe-to-toe war. Rico possesses significant power. I believe Rico can win this fight. He’s a skilled fighter with a lot to offer.”
BKFC 90: Tierney vs. Franco 2 Predicted to be a “Technical Toe-to-Toe War”
LT Nelson anticipates that the BKFC 90 rematch between Connor Tierney and Rico Franco II for the interim welterweight crown will be an intense and technically proficient battle. Having faced Franco himself, Nelson understands the grit and skill his former opponent brings to the ring. While acknowledging Tierney as a capable fighter based on reports, Nelson’s primary focus is on Franco’s toughness and potential for another exciting performance. The fight is expected to showcase a high level of boxing technique within a fierce, close-quarters combat scenario, with significant power from both sides.
