He is the Champion! Conor brings home bareknuckle title

ANTRIM bareknuckle bruiser Conor Cooke has returned home victorious after he defeated Anthony ‘The Yorkshire Gladiator’ Holmes in their highly anticipated matchup for the BKFC UK Light-Heavyweight Championship.

In Saturday’s main event at sold-out Vaillant Live, the referee called a stop to the fight at the conclusion of the third round due to a series of cuts that seriously affected Holmes’ vision.

Heat MMA fighter Conor Cooke is now 6-1 on the strength of four straight victories, winning his previous bout in March at BKFC Manchester by a first round knockout and showed his power from the first round.

“I can’t describe it. I came to BKFC two years ago and fought my (expletive) ass. I fought for this. I’m the best light-heavyweight in the UK. Come here and fight me for it,” Cooke said in his post-fight interview.

Up against an opponent five inches taller, Holmes suffered a cut to his right eye in the opening round when caught with a big right hand.

He spent most of the first round on the defensive, trying to use his speed on the outside before closing the gap more in the second only to be cut on his opposite eye.

The ringside doctor was called to check out the severity of the cuts and allowed the fight to continue with Holmes battling to the end of the third round, but struggling with his injuries and unable to make an impact.

Over 40 supporters travelled to England for the fight and it was also screened live in Madden’s Bar.

A spokesperson said: “Huge congratulations to our very own Conor Cooke, now BKFC UK Light Heavyweight Champion.

“What an incredible night in Derby! We were all watching live here in Madden’s Bar, Antrim, cheering him on - and what a performance!

“A massive shoutout to Conor for making us so proud with his skill, heart and determination.

“Big thanks to everyone who came down to support and to everyone back home sending the positive vibes, you smashed it!

“Champion status earned. Well deserved. Here’s to many more victories ahead!”