Olympic gold medalist and former unified featherweight world champion Yuriorkis Gamboa is set to begin one of the most intriguing transitions in modern combat sports after officially signing a multi fight, multi year deal with BKB Bare Knuckle Boxing.
Known globally as “El Ciclón de Guantánamo,” Gamboa brings elite pedigree, Olympic credentials, and decades of high level experience into a sport that continues to attract established names from traditional boxing. His signing represents one of the most significant additions in BKB’s rapid rise as a global combat sports platform.
A Decorated Career Before the Gloves Come Off
Yuriorkis Gamboas résumé places him among the most accomplished Cuban boxers of his generation. After capturing Olympic gold in 2004, he transitioned into the professional ranks in 2007 and quickly made his mark across multiple weight classes.
During a professional career that spanned more than a decade, Gamboa compiled a 30 and 5 record, capturing the WBA featherweight title before unifying it with the IBF crown. He later held secondary titles at super featherweight and lightweight, becoming the first Cuban boxer to ever secure an IBF world championship.
Along the way, he faced a who’s who of elite opposition, including Terence Crawford, Devin Haney, Gervonta Davis, and Isaac Cruz.
Praise From the Best in the Sport
Despite suffering a knockout loss to Crawford, Gamboa earned lasting respect from one of boxing’s most dominant figures.
Crawford has repeatedly described Gamboa as the hardest hitting opponent he has ever faced, a remark that continues to follow Gamboa years after their bout. The combination of speed, explosiveness, and timing that defined his boxing style is now expected to translate into the unforgiving environment of bare knuckle competition.
At 44, Gamboa is realistic about where he stands physically, but his confidence remains firmly intact as he prepares for this next phase.
Why Bare Knuckle and Why Now
Yuriorkis Gamboa explained that his interest in bare knuckle boxing grew after attending a recent BKB event, where the atmosphere and competitive structure left a strong impression.
Bare knuckle boxing is the oldest form of boxing, Gamboa said following the announcement. After winning an Olympic gold medal and world championships in boxing, now I’m focused and excited to become BKB Bare Knuckle World Champion.
Rather than viewing the move as a novelty, Gamboa sees it as a legitimate opportunity to add another championship to his legacy. His stated goal is clear. He wants to compete at the highest level available within the sport and prove that elite boxing fundamentals still matter without gloves.
BKB Views Gamboa as a Game Changer
From the promotion’s perspective, the signing signals continued momentum.
BKB founder Mike Vazquez described Gamboa as a natural fit for the Trigon, praising both his experience and global recognition. He also highlighted the growing Cuban presence on the roster, which already includes reigning champions.
BKB CEO David Tetreault went further, labeling Gamboa’s arrival as the most significant signing in the promotion’s history. According to Tetreault, Gamboa’s Olympic background and history of fighting elite opposition elevate BKB’s profile as it continues to expand internationally.
Following a Path Paved by Former World Champions
Gamboa joins a growing list of established boxers who have chosen BKB as the next stage of their careers.
Former two division champion Paulie Malignaggi has already made a successful transition and is scheduled to challenge Rolando Dy for the BKB super welterweight title later this year in Manchester. Heavyweight contender Lucas Browne has also competed under the BKB banner.
These signings reflect a broader trend of experienced boxers seeking new challenges in a format that rewards precision, toughness, and composure under pressure.
What Comes Next for Yuriorkis Gamboa
While an official debut date has yet to be announced, BKB confirmed that Gamboa will compete later this year, with further details expected in the coming months.
His arrival immediately places him in championship conversations, particularly given his ambition to become a two sport world champion. Whether his speed and technique translate seamlessly to bare knuckle action remains one of the most compelling storylines moving forward.
For BKB, the signing reinforces its position as a destination for elite talent. For Gamboa, it represents one final pursuit of greatness in the purest form of the sport.
Follow FIGHTCORE for more updates.
