Lee Selby explains bareknuckle switch after declining first two offers

Lee Selby has signed a bareknuckle boxing contract after turning down two separate financial proposals before accepting a third. The former IBF featherweight champion said money dictated his decision to move into the sport.

“They offered a great amount of money, which I declined. Then they offered more money, which I declined again, and finally they offered me enough to make me say yes. I'm a prize-fighter. I've fought my whole life. The prize is money. If the money's right, I'll fight.”

— Lee Selby, via BBC Sport

What Lee Selby said

Selby has not fought under traditional boxing rules since 2021. The Welshman held the IBF featherweight title between 2015 and 2018 before moving up in weight. Bareknuckle promotions have targeted former world champions in recent years as the discipline grows its profile in Britain and the United States.

What it moves

Selby's comments confirm he will compete bareknuckle but do not reveal which promotion signed him or when he will debut. The contract talks suggest organisers view the former champion as a significant signing worth escalating offers to secure. His next opponent and fight date remain unannounced.

Source: bbc.co.uk. Full Lee Selby fight history and recent news at boxingnews.com.