Gzim Selmani, recognized by wrestling fans as Rezar from the WWE tag team Authors of Pain, marked a triumphant debut in bare-knuckle fighting by delivering a stunning knockout to Dan Curtin in the second round. The bout, which took place on March 14, 2026, showcased Selmani’s striking power and determination as he successfully transitioned from professional wrestling to a new combat sport.
In the post-fight interview, Selmani expressed his intention to dominate the fighting scene, stating, “I came from WWE with one goal — to knock out anyone placed in front of me.” This statement reflects his competitive spirit and mindset as he embarks on this new chapter in his athletic career.
Before his time in WWE, Selmani had a background in mixed martial arts, where he achieved a record of 6 wins and 2 losses. During his wrestling tenure, he and his partner, Sunny Dhinsa, captured both the NXT Tag Team Championship and the WWE Raw Tag Team Championship, establishing themselves as a formidable duo. Their release from WWE in February 2025 allowed Selmani to explore new opportunities in combat sports.
Selmani’s bare-knuckle fight against Curtin was his first since October 2014, when he faced Daniel Gallemore at Bellator 130, where he was stopped via TKO. This long-awaited return to the ring not only reignited his passion for fighting but also provided him with a platform to showcase his skills in a different arena.
The BKFC event has garnered attention not only for Selmani’s performance but also for the burgeoning popularity of bare-knuckle boxing. As fighters from various martial arts backgrounds enter this space, the competition is expected to intensify, bringing fresh dynamics to the sport.
In a sport where knockouts are a common occurrence, Selmani’s decisive victory over Curtin is a clear statement of his capabilities. Fans and analysts alike will be keen to see how he continues to evolve as a fighter in the coming months. With a successful debut under his belt, Selmani appears poised to make a significant impact in the world of bare-knuckle fighting.
As the combat sports landscape shifts, Selmani’s journey serves as a reminder of the diverse paths athletes can take. His commitment and performance have set the stage for an exciting future, and fans are eager to witness what comes next.
