Keith Richardson is a man who can do both.

In his BKFC debut at BKFC 35 in January, “The Rockstar” reigned supreme over Justin Scoggins after five bloody, back-and-forth rounds in their candidate for Fight-of-the-Year honors. In his second BKFC bout, Richardson needed just 101 seconds to take out Cody Jenkins at BKFC 42 in May.

Fans seem to love epic battles and lightning-fast finishes equally. Although Richardson says there’s certainly a time and a place for five-round, drag-’em-out brawls, his preference is clear.

“The first-round finish is way better,” the Rock Hill, SC bantamweight contender says with a laugh. “It’s a lot easier on my face, and I get to enjoy the victory a lot more.”

Richardson returns to action against Derek Perez (1-0) at BKFC 48 on Aug. 11 in Albuquerque, NM, LIVE on The BKFC App. Perez is coming off an impressive unanimous decision victory over Anthony Sanchez in February at KnuckleMania 3.

Richardson is hopeful for another fast finish, but he’s preparing for five more hard rounds in the Squared Circle.

“He’s tough – I can see this one becoming a war,” Richardson says. “I think he’s going to want to make this a brawl, because stylistically I’m a bad matchup for him.”

Richardson is excited to potentially up his record to 3-0 – a fairly rare milestone in the world of BKFC – but he says he’s just getting started.

“It’s not really my style to call anyone out,” he says. “But after I win this fight, my callout is for the belt.”