Fireworks are guaranteed on Friday at BKFC 52 when Reggie “Educated Hands” Barnett Jr. defends his BKFC World Bantamweight Championship against undefeated challenger Keith “The Rockstar” Richardson. We checked in with some of BKFC’s most knowledgeable fighters to get their thoughts on Friday’s must-see Main Event, which airs LIVE on The BKFC App.
Bruce Abramski: On this week's Barnett/Richardson matchup, I call TKO win via doctor stoppage for Barnett. I don't know a lot about Keith but I know enough about Reggie to confidently predict this Main Event bout. Reggie is fast, slick, creative and what he "may" lack in punch power he makes up for with "punches in bunches." I'll be in S.C. this Friday night and will hear it for myself, "And still!"
James “Get Down” Brown: Barnett Jr. vs. Richardson is a great fight. If it's a brawl, I feel Richardson wins. But if Barnett keeps his feet moving and his head on a swivel, I feel he wins. I'm going Barnett via split decision.
Zach “Shark Attack” Calmus: This matchup not only fascinates me as a fighter but as a fan too. Reggie with his boxing background and Keith with an MMA background – this is a showcase of two styles meeting together in the Squared Circle. Coming from a boxing background, you can guess who I’m rooting for! Let’s go, champ – Reggie Barnett Jr.
Doug “ColdRed” Coltrane: I personally think that the Main Event will be a dogfight, but I gotta go with Keith “The Rockstar” Richardson. I think he’s hungry and really wants this opportunity. I think if he makes it a dogfight, he will pull it out! If it’s a technical battle, I think that gives the edge to the champ! Can’t wait to see it; I’ll be locked in watching.
Ja’Far “Knox” Fortt: Barnett, 10 toes down.
Blake “Big Boy” LaCaze: I expect an intense chess-like match with these two men. Reggie is a veteran of this sport, but Keith is a veteran for this nation. I predict we see a Fight of the Year candidate type of scrap between these two. I pick Keith Richardson to pull the upset win and be crowned new Bantamweight Champion.
Michael Larrimore: I see it being a barnburner from beginning to end, but Keith’s experience and grit being the determining factor. And new!
JR “The Lion” Ridge: I’m a fan of Reggie, but if anyone is going to beat Reggie, it’s going to be “The Rockstar.” Both are phenomenal athletes and I have gotten to know them both and both are great human beings, but I’m going to have to go with “The Rockstar” on this one.
Esteban “Mohawk” Rodriguez: I believe Keith Richardson is gonna come out and knock him out with his pressure.
Kasim “Caution” Ruffin: Keith is a little “Heman” but depends too much on his power, which can cause issues early on, but Reggie and Reggie Sr. will make the proper adjustments. By the end of Round 3 there will be a clear difference in speed, technique, and experience.
