Gzim Selmani, known to wrestling fans as Rezar from the WWE, made a successful entrance into bare-knuckle fighting by defeating Dan Curtin with a knockout in the second round of their match. This fight marked Selmani’s return to competition after an extended hiatus, showcasing his determination to leave a mark in a new arena.
The bout took place on March 14, 2026, and Selmani’s performance demonstrated his striking prowess. In his post-fight interview, he expressed his singular aim: “I came from WWE with one goal — to knock out anyone placed in front of me.” This statement emphasized his aggressive approach as he transitions from professional wrestling to bare-knuckle fighting.
Before joining WWE, Selmani had a background in mixed martial arts, where he built a record of 6 wins and 2 losses. During his time in WWE, he partnered with Sunny Dhinsa as part of the tag team Authors of Pain. Together, they achieved notable success, capturing both the NXT Tag Team Championship and the WWE Raw Tag Team Championship during their tenure. The duo was released from WWE in February 2025, marking the end of an era for both athletes.
Prior to his fight against Curtin, Selmani had not competed since October 2014, when he faced Daniel Gallemore at Bellator 130. That match ended in a TKO loss, which made his recent victory in the BKFC all the more significant.
Selmani’s knockout victory not only highlights his transition from one combat sport to another but also adds a new chapter to his athletic career. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how he continues to evolve in this unregulated environment, where striking power and tactical skill are paramount.
As Selmani embarks on this new journey in bare-knuckle fighting, his statement and performance suggest that he intends to carve out a formidable reputation, much like he did during his time in WWE. The future looks promising for this determined athlete as he embraces the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the world of combat sports.
