Former paratrooper and MMA fighter Jack Marshman, who competed in BAMMA, Cage Warriors, and eventually the UFC, found himself at a crossroads in his career. In 2024, during a match under the BKB banner known as "Cardiff Brawl," Marshman faced an unexpected challenge that reshaped his perspective on bare-knuckle boxing. Despite being knocked down in his initial BKB bout, he managed to secure a technical knockout victory against Carl Craig. This experience taught him that bare-knuckle fighters are far from mere "pub brawlers." Now, with an improved record of 2-0 in BKB, Marshman is set to face Cub Hawkins for the cruiserweight title in BKB 39.

In the twilight of his mixed martial arts career, Marshman confessed to losing enthusiasm for the sport. His motivation dwindled to merely paying the bills until he embraced bare-knuckle boxing (BKB). Speaking to talkSPORT.com, Marshman revealed his renewed passion for fighting stems from the high standards within BKB today. Initially skeptical, he now acknowledges the talent present in the league. After starting half-heartedly and getting dropped in his first fight, Marshman ignited his competitive spirit. His early 2025 victory over Alex Wilson showcased his growth, leading to a shot at the world title.

Cub Hawkins, the current cruiserweight champion, has made a name for himself through impressive performances. The 27-year-old Chicagoan boasts a remarkable record of 6-1 under the BKB umbrella, with all victories achieved via knockout or technical knockout. His devastating performance against Zion Tomlinson Sr. at the end of 2024 solidified his status as a formidable opponent. Hawkins' aggressive style presents a significant challenge for Marshman as they headline tonight’s BKB 39 event on VICETV.

This evening's showdown between Hawkins and Marshman promises to be a spectacle. With both fighters bringing distinct strengths and experiences to the ring, fans can expect a clash of styles that could redefine the cruiserweight division. For Marshman, this fight symbolizes more than just a title opportunity—it represents his rekindled love for combat sports and the journey that brought him back to the forefront of competition.