Former two-time Bellator champion Daniel Straus signs with BKFC

A former Bellator champ will now test his skills in bareknuckle boxing.

BKFC has signed Daniel Straus, a former two-time Bellator featherweight champion, to its ever-growing roster of fighters on a multi-fight deal.

The promotion officially announced the addition in a press release Friday, which did not include Straus’ expected debut or first opponent, although it is expected to be revealed soon.

“We’re thrilled to announce the signing of Daniel Straus to BKFC,” said BKFC President David Feldman in the release. “Daniel’s had a wealth of success in Bellator and we believe his skill set will translate very well in bare knuckle. Our featherweight division is very deep and rapidly growing and we have a number of great matchups for Daniel.”

“I’m all about excitement in my fights and that’s what BKFC has brought to the combat sports world in the last four years,” Straus said. “Dave and his Team have built the fastest-growing combat sports promotion in the world and I’m grateful for this opportunity. I can’t wait for my first bare-knuckle fight.”

With over 36 professional MMA fights under his belt, Straus will test his hands in the bareknuckle ring. He prepares to compete for the first time since October 2021 under the XMMA banner, which followed his release from Bellator in July 2021. Straus was let go by the promotion after an arrest for aggravated battery with a deadly weapon.

Straus first claimed Bellator gold by defeating Pat Curran by unanimous decision at Bellator 106 in 2013. After dropping the title in their rematch, Straus won the belt again two years later by defeating Patricio Freire at Bellator 145.

At 38, Straus continues his combat sports career, one that was nearly cut short after severe injuries from a motorcycle accident in 2017.