Vice News has done another small documentary on an interesting subculture. The film follows an Irish fighter living in England and his American challenger up to and including the fight. Two other fighters, a promoter, and a retired fighter are also filmed in action and interviewed. This was a fascinating cultural study and a good look into the venerable English tradition as it is re-imagined by an enthusiastic barroom promoter.

The fighting is not actually bare-knuckle, but conducted with wrapped or taped hands. This is necessary for indoors fighting in an 8 by 8 ring, otherwise the fighters hands would be ruined. Actual bare-knuckle fighting is generally too cautious to be of interest to the casual fan. This is a good call on the part of the promoter if he wants to build venues. Also the hay bale barriers are perfect for preventing serious head trauma to felled fighters.

Look out for the three punch combination that ends the championship fight.