Veteran UFC Fighter With 80 Fights Makes a Comeback

Aleksei Oleinik, renowned for his exceptional grappling skills and a professional MMA career spanning over two decades, is set to embark on a new journey in his fighting career by joining the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC). He will make his BKFC debut on April 4, 2025, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. 

Oleinik's opponent for his bare-knuckle debut is Gerônimo dos Santos, a 44-year-old Brazilian heavyweight with an impressive record of 71 fights. This matchup not only pits two seasoned fighters against each other but also marks BKFC's first-ever event in the UAE, signaling the promotion's expanding global footprint. Oleinik and BKFC shared the official announcement on Instagram. 

Throughout his illustrious MMA career, Oleinik has competed under various banners, including the UFC, KSW, and Bellator. He has faced and defeated notable heavyweights such as Mark Hunt, Travis Browne, and former champion Fabricio Werdum. 

The 47-year-old veteran, appropriately nicknamed "The Boa Constrictor" for his submission prowess, is known for his mastery of the Ezekiel choke, a rare submission technique he has successfully executed multiple times in competition. 

Transitioning to bare-knuckle boxing presents a distinct challenge for Oleinik. While his grappling credentials are impressive, adapting to a discipline that prioritizes stand-up combat tests his versatility as a fighter. 

Oleinik's decision to join BKFC underscores his enduring passion for competition and his willingness to embrace new challenges, even at this late stage of his career. As the event approaches, fans will watch closely to see how "The Boa Constrictor" navigates this uncharted territory and whether his MMA experience will help him in the bare-knuckle arena.