5 former UFC fighters who transitioned to bare-knuckle boxing

#4. Rachael Ostovich - Former UFC women's flyweight

In what appears to be a recurring trend on this list, Rachael Ostovich initially introduced herself to UFC fans by competing on The Ultimate Fighter. Ostovich defeated Melinda Fabian via rear-naked choke but lost a decision to Barb Honchak.

UFC Fight Night Cejudo v Dillashaw

However, Ostovich bounced back and won her UFC debut on The Ultimate Fighter 26 Finale card, submitting Karine Gevorgyan in the first round. Unfortunately for Ostovich, that would be her last win inside the UFC octagon. She was consecutively finished by Montana De La Rosa, Paige VanZant and Gina Mazany, leading to her UFC release.

Rather than compete in smaller MMA organizations, Ostovich followed the trend and signed for BKFC. She recently made her debut, defeating Paige VanZant by unanimous decision.

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#3. Chad Mendes - Former UFC featherweight

Chad 'Money' Mendes was once one of the top MMA featherweights on the planet, pushing, at the time, the seemingly indestructible Jose Aldo to his very limits. Following his retirement from mixed martial arts, Mendes has hinted at a return to combat sports in some form, although few predicted it would be bare-knuckle boxing.

UFC 179: Aldo v Mendes 2

While competing in the UFC, Mendes defeated multiple high-level opponents, including Clay Guida, Ricardo Lamas and Darren Elkins. Although his martial arts background was primarily wrestling, Mendes picked up some slick boxing during his time training at Team Alpha Male.

Early rumors seem to indicate that Mendes will be competing in the lightweight division of BKFC, where his five-foot, six-inch stature could see him somewhat undersized.

Putting the 155lb division on notice 👀@ChadMendes pic.twitter.com/pVfAPWzFji

— Bare Knuckle FC (@bareknucklefc) August 4, 2021