A former British world champion is making a surprise return to combat sports after almost four years away from boxing.

After a lull, Britain was once again home to a host of men’s world champions, with Fabio Wadley, Dalton Smith, Josh Kelly, Jazza Dickens and Lewis Crocker all claiming gold, Although Nick Ball lost his WBA belt on Saturday.

It is still a long way from reaching the heights of about a decade ago, when there were 14 world champions, one of whom was Lee Selby, the former IBF featherweight champion.

Selby lost the belt after losing to Josh Warrington, and the Welshman last fought in March 2022 after further losses to George Kambosos and Gustavo Lemos.

The 38-year-old is now gearing up for a comeback, announcing today that he has signed a multi-fight deal with BKB Bare Knuckle Boxing.

The organization has become Former world champions Paulie Malignaggi and Yuriorkis GamboaSelby revealed he now hopes to reach the top again.

“I’ve accomplished it all in glove boxing – from regional champion to five-time defending world champion. Now, bare knuckles is calling. This is the raw, no-filter version of boxing and I’m excited to bring my speed, skill and experience to BKB. I’m here to win another world title and prove why I’m still one of the best.”

Details of when Selby will make his debut in BKB Bare Knuckle are expected to be announced soon.