The former DAZN and IMG vice president has deep ties to the combat sports world

Michael Ridout 169

Bare Knuckle Boxing (BKB) has appointed Michael Ridout as managing director, UK.

Ridout has an extensive background in sports media, commercial strategy and international business development. He most recently served as executive vice president, combat sports & new business at DAZN.

Prior to that, he spent more than 17 years at IMG, where he held a range of senior commercial positions, including vice president, media.

Ridout has worked with some of the biggest names in combat sports, including the UFC and boxing promoter Frank Warren.

His experience across sports media rights, broadcast distribution and commercial development will support BKB’s efforts to expand its international reach and strengthen its position in the global combat sports market.

In his new role, Ridout will lead BKB’s operations in the UK while taking on wider operational and business responsibilities across the company.

He will work closely with BKB’s executive leadership team to strengthen the organisation’s commercial platform, develop strategic partnerships and support its continued growth across established and emerging markets.

“Michael brings an exceptional combination of experience, industry relationships and commercial expertise to BKB. His work with DAZN and IMG, particularly across sports media, broadcast distribution and global boxing, makes him a tremendous addition to our executive leadership team. As we continue to grow our international footprint and strengthen the business, his leadership will be instrumental in helping us capitalize on the opportunities ahead. We are delighted to welcome him to BKB,” said David Tetreault, CEO of BKB

“BKB has built an exciting platform in the global combat sports landscape, with significant opportunities to grow its audience, expand its international reach and develop new commercial partnerships. I’m delighted to be joining the executive leadership team at such an important stage in the company’s development. I look forward to working closely with the team in the UK and across the wider organization, drawing on my experience in sports media and combat sports to help drive BKB’s continued growth and build on the strong foundations already in place,” adds Ridout.