By Josh Clare – BkN UK

When you talk about the modern fighters of UK bare-knuckle boxing, one name out to me and it’s Dan “Big Pod” Podmore.

The big man from Birmingham isn’t just a fighter—he’s a walking, talking  hard bastard and the mindset of a champion forged in British fight scene. Whether it’s under the bright lights of BKB or throwing bombs in MMA cages, Big Pod has always brought war every time he steps through them ropes. And after a few bumps in the road, he’s not just back—he’s back on top.

The Reign of the Bridgerweight Champ

Dan Podmore’s most recent outing came at BKB 40: Cardiff Brawl 3, where he defended his Bridgerweight title against the powerful Emil Markic. It was a proper six-round war—nothing flashy, just pure graft, grit, and calculated pressure from start to finish. Markic gave it everything, but Podmore’s relentless pace and ring IQ sealed him the win on all three judges’ scorecards.

Unanimous decision. Still champion. Still dangerous.

This win wasn’t just about keeping his belt—it was a message to the division and beyond: Big Pod is still a force at the top of the food chain.

Underrated. Overlooked. Unbothered.

Let’s talk about it. Dan Podmore’s accolades often fly under the radar. For a man who’s taken out top contenders, bounced back from defeats like a warrior, and holds a world title—he doesn’t always get the flowers he deserves.

Why? Maybe it’s because he’s not a loudmouth online. Maybe it’s because he lets his fists do the talking. But those of us watching closely know—this man is one of the most consistent, dangerous and underrated operators in BKB today.

And rather than coast, he’s chasing the toughest fights available. That brings us to…

Podmore Offers Martinjak a Title Shot First—Then Wants His Own

Dan Podmore isn’t looking for easy wins—he wants war. And now, he’s stepped up and publicly offered Marko Martinjak, the reigning Super Cruiserweight World Champion, a crack at his Bridgerweight title first.

But Podmore’s made it clear: this isn’t a one-way street. If Martinjak accepts the challenge and fights for the Bridgerweight belt—then Pod wants his shot next.

“I’ll give him the first crack—he can challenge me for my belt,” Podmore told us. “But when it’s done, and if I’m still holding this, then I want my shot at his title. That’s how it works. Let’s see who’s really the best between us.”

That’s a champion’s mindset. First offer the fight. Then call your shot.

From Setbacks to Comebacks

Let’s not forget—Podmore’s journey hasn’t been all wins and highlight reels. In March 2024, he suffered a TKO loss to Richie Leak at BKB 37. Many fighters would crumble. Podmore rebuilt.

•June 2024: Comes back strong with a TKO win over Carl Hobley at BKB 39.

•Nov 2024: Destroys Ryan Barrett in one round at BYB 33 in Wolverhampton.

•Apr 2025: Wins a six-round decision over Emil Markic at BKB 40.

That’s how champions respond.

What’s Next?

The ball’s in Martinjak’s court now. Podmore’s laid out a clear path—come fight for the Bridgerweight belt, then win or lose, let’s run it back for the Super Cruiserweight World Title.

It’s rare to see a champion offer the toughest fight possible twice over—but that’s exactly what Big Pod’s doing.

Final Word from Us at BkN UK

Dan “Big Pod” Podmore isn’t just a champ—he’s a throwback to what real fighting should be. No cherry-picked opponents. No shortcuts. Just tough scraps, big risks, and even bigger wins.

He’s walked through fire, rebuilt from losses, and now stands as the undisputed king of the Bridgerweights.

If Martinjak wants to test himself—Pod’s ready. Just know this—first, you get your shot. Then he gets his.

Respect the journey. Respect the challenge. Respect Big Pod.