BKFC 79 betting preview, odds & fight predictions | August 2

The Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship returns to South Dakota for BKFC 79: GoGo vs Lane, bringing a hard-hitting welterweight title fight between undefeated Gorjan “GoGo” Slaveski and veteran brawler Julian Lane. The card is packed with title implications, surging contenders, and heavyweights promising highlight-reel knockouts.

From strawweight clashes to heavyweight wars, the Sturgis fight night is set to deliver raw bare-knuckle chaos.

Here’s your full breakdown of the BKFC 79 fight card, complete with matchup analysis, betting picks, and top odds from leading sportsbooks.

Gorjan “GoGo” Slaveski vs Julian Lane

Unbeaten Gorjan Slaveski (6-0) has bulldozed through competition with relentless forward pressure and precision boxing. Known for his iron chin and relentless pace, Slaveski overwhelms opponents with volume and calculated power shots.

Julian Lane (8-8) is a true bare-knuckle veteran. With decades of experience and a fearless style, Lane thrives in firefights and can take a punch as well as he can deliver one. However, his defense has been leaky in recent fights.

Slaveski’s combination of volume and ring control makes him a tough puzzle for Lane to solve.

Taylor Starling vs Shelby Cannon

Taylor Starling (4-4) is a fan favorite who loves a scrap. Her aggressive style, sharp hooks, and relentless pressure make her dangerous in every exchange. She’ll need to start fast and stay in Cannon’s face to win.

Shelby Cannon (1-0) impressed in her debut with quick hands and strong clinch work. She’s defensively sound and has shown she can dictate the pace.

Starling’s grit could make this a slugfest, but Cannon’s cleaner technique gives her the advantage.

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Zach Calmus vs Corey Willis

Heavyweights collide as Zach Calmus (5-3) brings knockout power and a durable chin against the hard-hitting Corey Willis (1-0). Calmus throws bombs but can be flat-footed defensively.

Willis debuted with an impressive KO, showcasing speed and power. If he can avoid Calmus’s looping shots and work behind the jab, Willis likely lands the cleaner punches.

Brandon Conley vs David Simpson

Brandon Conley (2-0-1) is technically sound and undefeated, bringing a calculated striking style and solid counter-punching ability. He’s known for managing distance well and avoiding unnecessary risks.

David Simpson (2-4) may have a rougher record, but he’s a battle-tested veteran who’s faced stronger opposition. Simpson thrives in chaotic exchanges and can turn a fight with one well-placed shot. If he pressures Conley early and makes this a gritty brawl, he has a real chance to pull off the upset.

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Elvin Brito vs Brandon Meyer – Lightweight

Veteran Elvin Brito (6-6) is a skilled boxer with clean head movement and body work. He’s dangerous at close range and can break opponents down with sustained output.

Brandon Meyer (3-2) is a tough, durable fighter with solid cardio but tends to get hit too often in prolonged exchanges.

Brito’s experience and technique make him the pick.

Shyanna Bintliff vs Marisol Ruelas – Women’s Bout

Shyanna Bintliff makes her BKFC debut with strong amateur boxing experience, footwork, and a stiff jab.

Marisol Ruelas also debuts, bringing brawling tendencies but less polish.

Expect Bintliff’s fundamentals to outshine Ruelas.

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Bear Hill vs Billy Swanson – Heavyweight

Bear Hill (1-0) is an athletic powerhouse with explosive striking. His debut showcased knockout potential and good clinch strength.

Billy Swanson steps in looking to spoil the hype. He’s rugged and tough but may struggle with Hill’s speed.

Traevon Kroger vs Daniel Pettit – Featherweight

Traevon Kroger (1-0) impressed with sharp combinations and good lateral movement in his debut.

Daniel Pettit (1-2) is aggressive but hittable and has shown defensive lapses.

Kroger’s speed and cleaner boxing should secure another win.

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