Lavar “Big” Johnson Crowned VBK Heavyweight Champion

JACKSONVILLE, FL (October 28, 2023) – Last night, Valor Bare Knuckle 2 (VBK2) lived up to its promise, delivering an evening of electrifying and true bare-knuckle boxing that will be cemented in the history of combat sports. In the main event at the University of North Florida (UNF) Center in Jacksonville, Florida, Lavar “Big” Johnson secured a spectacular victory, scoring a sensational first-round TKO against Travis Wiuff, as he is captured the coveted VBK Heavyweight title.

Johnson dropped Wiuff three times before the referee stopped the bout, ending the contest at the 1:21 mark of round one. Johnson landed some vicious right uppercuts that send Wiuff to the canvas multiple times, with the last knockdown coming by way of a devastating body shot. Johnson displayed his power and was crowned VBK Heavyweight champion.

“I came out here to handle business and now I want anyone daring enough to step in the bout circle with me,” said an elated Johnson after a crowd-pleasing performance. “Valor Bare Knuckle and the Bout Circle is where everyone wants to be fighting. This is true bare-knuckle boxing, like no other. I’m honored to be the VBK new heavyweight champion and I’m open to fighting everyone.”

Ken Shamrock, the face and founder of Valor Bare Knuckle, shared his thoughts on the sensational night of fights, stating, “Valor Bare Knuckle 2 exceeded all expectations, and the main event showcased the spirit of our sport. Lavar ‘Big’ Johnson’s knockout victory was a defining moment, and I congratulate him on his well-deserved VBK Heavyweight championship. This is what true bare-knuckle fighting is all about. Every single fight tonight was amazing.”

Furthermore, Ken Shamrock and Matty Miranda, the visionaries behind Valor Bare Knuckle, generously contributed $10,000 to the Florida State Fraternal Order of Police (FOP). Here are their statements:

“We are honored to support the Florida State FOP in their unwavering dedication to safeguarding our communities,” Shamrock continued. “This donation is a small token of our appreciation for the tireless efforts of our law enforcement.”

Miranda shared his sentiments, stating, “As founders of Valor Bare Knuckle, we believe in giving back to those who selflessly serve and protect. The Florida State FOP plays a vital role in ensuring the safety of our communities, and we’re proud to stand with them.”

The replay of Valor Bare Knuckle 2 on www.valorbk.com provides fans with a second chance to witness all the bare-knuckle battles, including the incredible journey that led to Lavar “Big” Johnson’s championship victory.

Undercard Bouts Results

Heavyweight Co-Main Event: Bout 11

Bobby Brents defeated Muhammed Dereese, ending the fight with an overhand right at the 1:21 mark of the first round

Middleweight: Bout 10

Joseph Brett Williams defeated James Bodnar at the 1:56 mark of round one. Williams landed an overhand right that dropped Bodnar early, then finished him off shortly after.

Heavyweight: Bout 9

Robinson Perez defeated Chad Finnerty when he landed a vicious overhand right, ending the bout at the 0:28 mark of round one.

Lightweight: Bout 8

Joshua Sikes defeated Daniel Pettit by way of first round knockout. Pettit landed a straight right cross at the 1:11 mark, ending the fight.

Welterweight: Bout 7

Raymond Pell defeated Mi’kele Furgerson by unanimous decision. Both fighters scored knockdowns. Scorecards read 28-27 all in favor of Pell.

Featherweight: Bout 6

Alexander Tierney defeated Lukas Jones by first round knockout ending the bout with a left uppercut to the face at the 2:59 mark of round one.

Heavyweight: Bout 5

Gilberto Fuentes defeated Stephon Reese by first round TKO with a right hook to the nose ending the fight at the 1:00 minute mark.

Heavyweight: Bout 4

DJ Tice defeated Shaka Burney by TKO with an overhand right ending the bout at the 2:06 mark of round one.

Middleweight: Bout 3

Mike Young defeated Tucker Champman by way of unanimous decision in a brutal war. Scorecards read 29-26 twice and 30-25.

Flyweight: Bout 2

AJ Iriarte defeated Anthony Yost with a left hook-right hook combo ending the bout at the 0:28 of round one.

Welterweight: Bout 1

Dustin Dixon defeated Christopher Cornelius by first round KO at 2:53 mark with an overhand right. To ensure that fans across the globe can experience the exhilarating action, the entire VBK2 event is available for replay on the www.valorbk.com website. With FREE registration, fight enthusiasts can relive the intensity and excitement of VBK2 at their convenience