Review: Gamebred Bareknuckle MMA event features Russian fighters in mixed results

A detailed review of Jorge Masvidal's Gamebred Bareknuckle MMA event Smith vs Sherman revealed a generally underwhelming show despite the unique bareknuckle MMA format. Two Russian fighters competed: Nikolai Kovalenko (11-2), known from RCC, dominated early but severely fatigued and lost by disqualification, while Denis Petrov (1-1) knocked out his opponent despite nearly being finished himself. Former UFC fighters Anthony Smith, Chase Sherman, Luis Pena, and Thiago Santos also competed, with Smith returning from retirement with a heavily tattooed arm to defeat Sherman, Pena submitting his opponent after an illegal groin strike, and Santos securing a ground-and-pound victory. Ray Cooper III was the only fighter to score a spectacular knockout. The reviewer found the production mediocre, most fights boring, and sees limited future for the format despite its unusual concept.