Elite Paratrooper’s Bare Knuckle Boxing Surprise

From Paratrooper to Bare-Knuckle Brawler: Jack Marshman’s Unexpected Rise

By Archyde News Journalist

May 16, 2025

Jack Marshman, a name once synonymous with the disciplined world of the British Army’s Parachute Regiment and later, the structured arena of mixed martial arts (MMA), has found an unlikely resurgence in the raw and visceral realm of bare-knuckle boxing (BKB).After a UFC career that saw its highs and lows, Marshman, 35, initially dipped his toes into the BKB waters with a degree of skepticism.Now,he’s not just competing; he’s contending for a world title.

Marshman’s journey took a pivotal turn during his “Cardiff Brawl” under the BKB banner in the summer of 2024. He faced Carl Craig in a brutal encounter that served as a stark wake-up call. “The Hammer” secured a TKO victory, but not before experiencing the harsh realities of bare-knuckle fighting firsthand, learning a crucial lesson along the way:

They’re more than just “pub brawlers.”

This realization has fueled Marshman’s renewed passion for combat sports.

Finding Passion anew

For Marshman, BKB represents more than just a paycheck; its a rekindling of his love for fighting. As he explained to talkSPORT.com:

“I fell out of love with MMA at the end of my career. The only reason I was doing it was to pay the bills, but BKB is different.I’m doing this for the love of having a fight. I used to think that bare knuckle was a load of rubbish, but the standard is really high now. There are a lot of really talented fighters, no pub brawlers like there where five years ago. I went in there half-heartedly at the start and got dropped [in my first fight], which pissed me off. That lit a fire under me. I never thought I would be fighting for a world title when I started, but I have fallen back in love with fighting, and here we are.”

This sentiment resonates with many athletes who find themselves seeking a new challenge after years in a particular discipline. In Marshman’s case,the rawness and unpredictability of BKB have provided the spark he needed to reignite his competitive fire.

Marshman’s commitment to BKB was further solidified by his victory over Alex Wilson in early 2025, boosting his BKB record to 2-0. This win paved the way for a title shot against reigning cruiserweight champion, Cub “Savage” Hawkins.

The Champion: Cub “savage” Hawkins

Standing in Marshman’s path to the cruiserweight title is Cub Hawkins, a 27-year-old Chicago native with a reputation for devastating knockout power. Hawkins boasts a 6-1 BKB record, with all six victories coming by way of knockout or TKO, four of which occured in the first round. His most recent victory saw him defeat Zion Tomlinson Sr. at “Brawl in the Pines” at the end of 2024.

Hawkins represents a significant challenge for Marshman. His youth,aggression,and proven ability to finish fights early make him a formidable opponent. For Marshman to claim the title, he’ll need to utilize his experience and technical skills to weather the storm and capitalize on any openings.

BKB 39: Brawl on the Beach

The highly anticipated clash between Hawkins and Marshman headlines BKB 39,broadcast live on VICETV. This event marks a significant moment for both fighters and for the growing sport of bare-knuckle boxing itself.

The Evolution of Bare-Knuckle Boxing

Marshman’s initial skepticism towards BKB reflects a common perception of the sport as unsophisticated and dangerous. However, as Marshman himself acknowledges, the reality is far more nuanced. BKB has evolved substantially in recent years, attracting talented fighters from various combat sports backgrounds and implementing stricter regulations to enhance safety.

The rise of promotions like BKB, along with increased media coverage and professionalization, has contributed to a shift in public perception. While safety concerns remain a valid consideration, the sport is working to establish itself as a legitimate and competitive form of combat sports.

Analysis and Implications for American Readers

For American fight fans, the Hawkins vs.Marshman bout showcases the growing appeal of BKB as an alternative to traditional boxing and MMA. The sport’s raw intensity and unpredictable nature offer a compelling spectacle, attracting viewers who crave unfiltered action.

The involvement of American fighters like Cub Hawkins underscores the domestic growth of BKB within the United States. As more states regulate and sanction bare-knuckle events, the sport is poised to gain further mainstream acceptance and possibly rival established combat sports leagues in terms of popularity and revenue.

Tho, it’s crucial to acknowledge the inherent risks associated with bare-knuckle fighting. Head injuries and lacerations are common occurrences, raising concerns about long-term health consequences for participants. Ongoing research and safety measures are essential to mitigate these risks and ensure the well-being of fighters.

Looking Ahead

The outcome of the Hawkins vs. Marshman fight will undoubtedly have significant implications for both fighters’ careers and for the broader BKB landscape. A victory for Hawkins would solidify his position as the dominant force in the cruiserweight division, while a win for Marshman would represent a remarkable comeback story and a testament to his resilience and adaptability.

Nonetheless of the result, BKB 39 promises to be a thrilling event that showcases the evolution and growing appeal of bare-knuckle boxing.

Additional Insights and Recent Developments

Recent developments in BKB include increased scrutiny regarding fighter safety and regulations. organizations are exploring advancements in hand wrapping techniques and pre-fight medical evaluations to minimize injuries. Furthermore, discussions are ongoing about implementing weight cutting restrictions to protect fighters from the dangers of extreme dehydration.

Potential Counterarguments

despite its growing popularity, BKB faces criticism regarding its potential for serious injuries. Some argue that the lack of gloves increases the risk of cuts, fractures, and long-term brain damage. Proponents of BKB counter that the shorter fight durations and the emphasis on striking technique can actually reduce the risk of prolonged head trauma compared to other combat sports.

What do you think will be the deciding factor in the Marshman vs Hawkins fight?

Archyde Interview: Jack marshman on His Bare-Knuckle Boxing Title Fight

By Archyde News Editor

May 17,2025

Entering New Territory

Archyde News: Jack,welcome. It’s captivating to see a former UFC fighter and Paratrooper like yourself transitioning to Bare-Knuckle boxing. Many were surprised, including yourself, initially. What was the primary impetus for this move?

Jack Marshman: Thanks for having me.Honestly, after my MMA career, I’d fallen out of love with the sport, the only reason to fight was to pay bills, and I was searching for a new challenge. The rawness and the intensity of BKB really appealed to me, it was different, a chance to rediscover my passion.

Understanding the BKB Landscape

archyde News: you’ve mentioned having to adjust your initial perception of BKB– how has the sport evolved since your first impressions?

Jack Marshman: Absolutely.The standard is remarkably high now. When I entered, I didn’t fully understand the skill level involved, and the “pub brawler” image is really outdated. There is a lot of really really talented people there now. My first loss acted as a huge wake-up call, and I had to adapt, bringing in a whole series of different combat instructors to bring me up to speed.

The Road To the Title: Challenges and Opportunities

Archyde News: Your upcoming fight against Cub “Savage” Hawkins at BKB 39 is a huge step. What specifically makes him such a perilous opponent?

Jack Marshman: Hawkins is really tough. He is young, and his knockout power is a big worry. He finishes fights quickly,and I will have to be at the very top of my game to survive and take the title. The main focus is to use my experience and technical skills to control the pace and look for opportunities in his aggressive attack.

The Raw Appeal of BKB

Archyde News: BKB is certainly capturing a growing audience. For those less familiar, what are the key characteristics that set it apart from other combat sports, and why is it attracting so many viewers?

Jack Marshman: It’s the rawness, the unpredictable nature of it. There’s no hiding place when your fighting with your bare fists. This unfiltered aspect, paired with the intensity and the skill of the fighters, creates a compelling spectacle. The fights are often short and dynamic,which keeps the viewers engaged.

Safety and the Future of BKB

archyde News: Safety in BKB is widely discussed. What are your thoughts on balancing the sport’s inherent risks with the need to protect fighters’ well-being?

Jack Marshman: It’s absolutely crucial. I am very aware of the risks, and that’s why I’m a massive advocate for organizations implementing stricter guidelines and regulations in the sport. Things like hand protection and pre-fight medicals are essential for fighters. Constant improvements in safety protocols is vital.

Looking Ahead: Marshman’s Vision

Archyde News: Win or lose, what do you hope the outcome of BKB 39 signifies, not just for your career but for the broader perception of this sport?

Jack marshman: If I win, it will be a statement. If I beat Cub, I’ll have proved that my age and journey here is a fantastic story proving that all things are possible. If he wins, I still hope I am respected. Irrespective the contest itself will further highlight BKB’s potential. I’m really pleased to have the opportunity to add to the spectacle. Both of us are in this sport to please fans, so hopefully it is a great contest.

The Discussion Continues

Archyde News: Jack, thank you for your time. For the readers, what do you think will be the deciding factor in the Marshman vs Hawkins fight? Share your predictions in the comments below.