Jesse Ronson is set to headline BKB 52: No Turning Back on March 28th, where he will contend for the BKB Championship belt against Cub Hawkins. For Ronson, this is not just a chance to claim a title, but an opportunity to make history as the first Canadian bare-knuckle boxing champion.
Ronson asserts he is in the best shape of his career. At 40, he feels incredibly sharp, with improved speed, power, and enhanced reactions. He is supremely confident ahead of his first world title fight against a legendary opponent like Cub Hawkins, a multi-division champion with an impressive 9-1 record. The motivation to become the first Canadian holder of a bare-knuckle title (especially the prestigious Police Gazette belt) is an incredibly powerful driving force for him. He is focused on smart training and adequate rest.
This extraordinary confidence is fueled by the pursuit of historical achievement. Ronson has found no evidence of other Canadian bare-knuckle champions and believes this is a monumental step for his country. He aims to be the best in the world at 175 pounds in bare-knuckle boxing and is ready to face fighters like Mike Perry or Dave Mundell if suitable terms are offered. For him, this is not a source of pressure, but a source of strength, and he feels he simply cannot lose, crediting his 20 years of experience and the support he senses from the “universe.”
Ronson Targets Bare-Knuckle Boxing and Gamebred MMA Gold
Ronson’s entry into the bare-knuckle boxing arena was initially seen as a natural fit, and his convincing victory over Ryan Jett, an experienced fighter, significantly bolstered belief in his potential. This debut surpassed all expectations. Despite Jett being a formidable opponent, Ronson’s dominant win impressed the audience, who immediately began demanding a title shot for him. Although matchmakers initially planned for Ronson to have additional bouts, he quickly secured his opportunity, believing he “skipped the line” due to his performance and the market potential a Canadian champion could bring.
His plans include defeating Cub Hawkins, then capturing the Gamebred Bare Knuckle MMA welterweight title to become the world’s first champion in that category, not just in Canada. Afterward, he would like to fight Barrie Jones. Ronson emphasizes that his journey is far from over. Winning world titles legitimizes his career, but considering everything mixed martial arts has taken from him, it’s time to reclaim something and finally start earning significant money.