Tony Lafferty, a former member of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, advocates for bare-knuckle boxing to be broadcasted on mainstream television networks. Lafferty, also known as ‘The Tiger,’ has been compared to the likes of ‘Conor McGregor’ in his field.
Originally a traditional gloved boxer, Lafferty, a 32-year-old hailing from Stirling, transitioned to bare-knuckle boxing, likening it to being in a high-pressure situation like a “firefight.”
According to Lafferty, “It is survival mode. Just like being shot at in Afghanistan.”
Despite the intense nature of the sport, Lafferty believes it deserves more exposure. “I have appeared on Sky TV, filled arenas like the O2, and have a bout scheduled at Wembley next year… I am one of the top competitors in the sport, yet I am relatively unknown in my own country.”
Known for its brutal matches, bare-knuckle boxing is perceived by Lafferty as potentially safer compared to gloved boxing.
Lafferty explained, “You don’t sustain the same level of impact on the brain. With bare-knuckle boxing, the emphasis is more on visible injuries.”
This assertion is supported by Lafferty’s personal experience. He has endured numerous bone fractures, such as in his hand, multiple fingers, jaw, and his nose on three different occasions – comparable to the injuries sustained by a skydiver without a parachute.
Lafferty has disclosed his intention to retire from the sport once he starts a family.
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