Jeff Molina, an undefeated flyweight prospect in the UFC, is making a significant career shift to Bareknuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC). The 27-year-old from Missouri was previously entangled in a major scandal within the UFC.
In November 2022, Molina received a suspension from the UFC due to suspicious betting activity linked to a fight involving his teammate, Darrick Minner, and Shayilan Nuerdanbieke. Irregular betting line movements favoring Nuerdanbieke to win by knockout were observed shortly before Minner suffered a 70-second TKO loss after his knee gave out.
Minner was subsequently suspended for two years by the Nevada State Athletic Commission for not disclosing his pre-fight injury. The ongoing investigation also led to suspensions for Molina and his head coach, James Krause, for placing wagers on UFC bouts, including those involving their teammates, sometimes betting on both wins and losses.
Nearly three years later, Molina remains under suspension. He confirmed requesting his release from the UFC to the promotion`s chief business officer.
Molina shared that after facing personal difficulties around this time last year, he is now in a much better mental state and ready to return to competition – albeit without gloves.
Molina Confirms BKFC Move: “Nothing Compares”
Despite holding a 3-0 record in the UFC, Molina revealed on The Ariel Helwani Show that he has officially signed a contract with Bareknuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC).
“Talked with [David] Feldman this morning and I’m stoked,” Molina commented on his transition to BKFC. He compared his experiences: “I’ve been to dozens of UFC’s, some of the biggest cards… I’ve been to probably four or five BKFC’s. Nothing compares to BKFC.”
Molina expressed his enthusiasm for the bareknuckle promotion, stating, “I’m not just saying that because I’ve recently signed. The entertainment factor is through the roof. There’s nothing more exciting. The experience is super cool. The fights are as raw as I can get.” Since its launch in 2018, BKFC has rapidly gained popularity, attracting former UFC fighters like Mike Perry, Eddie Alvarez, and Jeremy Stephens, and successfully selling out major events like `KnuckleMania V` which drew over 17,000 fans in January.
Aspiring to Be a Two-Division BKFC Champion
With an 11-2 professional MMA record and a decade of experience, Molina discussed how his fighting style translates to the bareknuckle ring. “I’ve always been fancied as a striker,” he explained. While acknowledging his love for grappling and continued jiu-jitsu training, he noted that refraining from grappling during bareknuckle fight camps would be the primary drawback. However, he believes his striking background makes his style “perfect for this.”
Molina has set ambitious goals in bareknuckle boxing, aiming for double the championship success he pursued in MMA. “I can be the face of bare knuckle at 125 and even 135,” the flyweight contender asserted. He feels naturally suited for the sport, even acknowledging its brutal nature: “Certainly, fights can be pretty brutal and gruesome… f*** it. Let’s do it.”
Expressing confidence in his capabilities at this stage of his career, Molina stated, “I really think I can be a two division champ. I’m 27 years old. I’m in the prime of my career. I’ve been training throughout this time and I’m ready to go.”
Jeff Molina mentioned that a specific date for his BKFC debut is not yet set. He acknowledged the possibility of competing outside of Nevada before November and hopes to receive clarification regarding his current suspension status around that time.
Rupert Hartwell