Lee Selby reveals bare-knuckle offer took three bids to accept

Lee Selby has disclosed that he turned down two financial offers before accepting a bare-knuckle boxing contract. The former IBF featherweight champion said the third proposal finally met his threshold.

“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 last fought under traditional boxing rules in 2021. Bare-knuckle promotions have targeted established names from the gloved ranks in recent years, using escalating purses to secure signings. The Welshman has not confirmed which promotion he has signed with or when his debut will take place.

What it moves

Selby's admission that money drove the decision sets the tone for his transition. Bare-knuckle organisers will likely use his name to anchor an upcoming card. Whether other former world champions follow the same negotiating path remains an open question as the sport expands its roster.

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