Andrei Arlovski Set for Bare-Knuckle Debut Against Geronimo Dos Santos
Staying relevant in the UFC is no easy feat. Even for former champions, time and competition wear on, and eventually, new paths must be forged. While few walk away on top, others choose to go out swinging—and sometimes in entirely different arenas. That may be the case for one of UFC’s most durable veterans, whose bare-knuckle debut could also serve as a final bow.
According to an official post from BKFC on Instagram, former UFC Heavyweight Champion Andrei Arlovski is set to compete at BKFC 76 on June 21 in Texas. The caption read: ‘ANDREI ARLOVSKI IS LEAVING THE GLOVES BEHIND JUNE 21 IN TEXAS!’ At 46 years old, the phrase leaving the gloves behind carries weight, possibly hinting that this bout may mark the end of Arlovski’s decorated career. Arlovski’s last outing was a TKO victory over Terrance Hodges at DX 1, a smaller event that helped the veteran regain momentum before stepping into the BKFC spotlight.
Arlovski’s UFC journey began in 2000. He became interim UFC heavyweight champion in 2005 by defeating Tim Sylvia, later being promoted to undisputed champ. Over his career, he fought in over 40 UFC bouts, with wins over names like Fabricio Werdum, Travis Browne, Frank Mir, and Antonio Silva. Though he experienced ups and downs, Arlovski remained a staple of the heavyweight division well into his 40s, earning a reputation for longevity and heart.
Standing across from Arlovski will be Geronimo Dos Santos, a 44-year-old Brazilian powerhouse and fellow former UFC heavyweight. Dos Santos was scheduled to fight in the UFC in 2012 against Gabriel Gonzaga, but the bout was ultimately canceled due to his pre-fight medical exams. Two years passed, and the Nevada Athletic Commission still would not clear him, so he asked to be released from his UFC contract. He’s competed across various international promotions, known for his knockout power and aggressive style. Dos Santos also has one BKFC fight under his belt—at BKFC 71, he scored a knockout victory over fellow UFC veteran Aleksei Oleinik.
Fans will soon see whether this clash of former UFC heavyweights marks the end—or the rebirth—of a legendary fighting career.
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