Josh “Stay Down” Watson: From MMA to BKFC Dominance

Las Vegas, Nevada – In the brutal world of Bare Knuckle fighting, names come and go, but few leave an imprint as lasting as Josh “Stay Down” Watson. Despite hanging up his MMA gloves almost a decade ago, Watson’s return to the combat world via Bare Knuckle has been nothing short of remarkable.

Born in Portland, Maine, and now fighting out of Las Vegas, the 40-year-old veteran boasts an impressive MMA record of 6-4-0. At a sturdy 6’0″ and weighing in at 282 lbs, Watson transitioned seamlessly into the heavyweight division of Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC).

Watson’s BKFC journey began with a minor setback against Bryant Acheson in October 2021, where he faced a first-round KO. However, true to his moniker “Stay Down,” Watson did anything but. He roared back to victory with emphatic wins against Kyle McElroy in August 2022 and Greg Hardy in February 2023, showcasing his power and experience.

The quick victory over McElroy, accomplished with a barrage of punches just 1:24 into the first round, solidified Watson’s status as a force to be reckoned with in the BKFC ring. His most recent triumph against Hardy, achieved in a mere 19 seconds into the second round, is a testament to his knockout power and ability to capitalize on openings.

While the combat world eagerly awaited his clash with Ben Rothwell in April 2023, the bout was unfortunately canceled, leaving fans hungry for more of Watson’s electrifying performances.

Now affiliated with The Academy, Watson’s fighting spirit seems to be on an upswing. And even at 40, his prowess and hunger for victory remain undiminished. Whether it’s MMA or Bare Knuckle, when Josh “Stay Down” Watson steps into the ring, he brings with him an unmatched intensity and a legacy of raw power.