FOX Nation is entering the combat sports arena. The streamer has partnered with Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) and Conor McGregor for an original tournament series launching in the summer of 2027.
What We Know: FOX Nation announced a new competitive fight sport program entitled World’s Baddest Man. A documentary competition series will premiere on the network in summer 2027. McGregor, BKFC’s co-owner, hosts and stars as fighters battle through a bracket-style tournament. Additionally, the winner-take-all event carries an eight-figure prize pool. Kiss Fly Productions produces, with McGregor, David Feldman, and others serving as executive producers.
What They Said: Lauren Petterson, president of FOX Nation: “Conor McGregor is one of the most recognizable figures in combat sports. We’re excited to partner with him on a bold new original series unlike any other. World’s Baddest Man combines premium documentary storytelling with world-class competition. Providing FOX Nation subscribers unprecedented access to unique athletes while showcasing the grit, determination and heart required to compete for one of the biggest prizes in combat sports.”
Conor McGregor: “BKFC has changed the game of combat sports. I couldn’t be more excited to partner with FOX Nation and unleash The World’s Baddest Man Tournament. This tournament will bring together the toughest fighters on the planet in a true test of heart, grit, and willpower, and I’m proud to be part of something that will set a new standard for what it means to be the baddest man in the world.”
What Remains Unclear: FOX Nation hasn’t released a specific premiere date. Also, full fighter roster remains unannounced, as does episode count.
What It Means: The deal signals FOX Nation’s push into scripted-style sports entertainment beyond news personalities. Moreover, McGregor’s star power could draw new subscribers curious about combat sports storytelling. Meanwhile, BKFC gains a major streaming showcase, extending its reach beyond traditional pay-per-view audiences. Earlier this month, FOX Nation presented an exclusive two-part documentary, UFC Fight House: The Making of the Biggest Fight in History surrounding the UFC’s event at the White House in June.
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John Mamola is Barrett Media’s sports editor and daily sports columnist. He brings over two decades of experience (Chicago, Tampa/St Petersburg) in the broadcast industry with expertise in brand management, sales, promotions, producing, imaging, hosting, talent coaching, talent development, web development, social media strategy and design, video production, creative writing, partnership building, communication/networking with a long track record of growth and success. He is a five-time recognized top 20 program director in a major market via Barrett Medi’s Top 20 series and has been honored internally multiple times as station/brand of the year (Tampa, FL) and employee of the month (Tampa, FL) by iHeartMedia. Connect with John by email at John@BarrettMedia.com.