James Lilley's BKFC UK Title Dreams Dashed, Faces Heavier Opponent in Newcastle

James Lilley's aspirations for the BKFC UK featherweight title have been put on hold. His scheduled opponent, Gary Fox, withdrew from their upcoming bout, forcing Lilley to move up a weight division. Lilley had previously commented on the significance of the Fox fight, believing it would have headlined any other bare-knuckle card, though he acknowledged that former heavyweight champion Mick Terrill, being from Newcastle, was a fitting main event for the original event.

A Legacy-Defining Moment Postponed for James Lilley

This championship opportunity was particularly significant for Lilley, as it offered him the chance to join an elite group of fighters who have held titles in both BKFC and BKB – a rare feat achieved by few, including Mick Terrill. Reflecting on his victory over Scott McHugh at BKB 21, Lilley had expressed his strong desire to become a multi-promotion champion in bare-knuckle boxing. He noted his history of challenging for various titles across MMA, boxing, and bare-knuckle promotions (BKB, BKFC), with only the BKB title secured.

Lilley conveyed his intense drive to win the BKFC belt, viewing it as the culmination of 20 years of his career and a tangible legacy for his children, prioritizing it over money or fame. He stated that the belt would encapsulate everything he had been working towards and was the only thing on his mind.

This opportunity to make history is now postponed. Lilley, known as ‘Lights Out’, announced on social media that the fight with Fox is expected to be rescheduled in a few months, with the BKFC UK promoter citing unforeseen circumstances for Fox’s withdrawal.

Consequently, the former BKFC lightweight title challenger will not compete for the UK featherweight title (145 pounds) against Fox. Instead, he will move up to 155 pounds for a short-notice lightweight bout against Josué Ekedi. This last-minute matchup is set for BKFC Fight Night Newcastle at Utilita Arena Newcastle on March 14th.