Austin Trout Wants to Turn 'Fireworks' at BKFC Liberty Brawl into Spot on BKFSea Bruise Cruise [Exclusive]

Austin Trout is aiming to turn the “fireworks” of BKFC Liberty Brawl into a championship moment and secure a spot on the BKFSea Bruise Cruise. The 40-year-old will challenge Ben Bonner for the vacant lightweight title on July 3 in Philadelphia, headlining the inaugural event tied to the city’s celebration of the United States’ 250th anniversary. Trout and Bonner are the final matchup in BKFC’s four-man tournament, with Trout advancing after beating Luis Palomino in the first round and Bonner earning his place via a February rematch win over Tony Soto. A victory would make Trout the promotion’s third two-division champion. BKFC’s pound-for-pound rankings currently place Lorenzo Hunt at No. 1 after his November 2025 return and knockout wins, with Trout at No. 2.