Titan Bare Knuckle promotions now has a double champion in Pietie Coxen, who clinched his second belt against Ryan Pretorius on October 4.

Returning to the ring with a clear goal, Coxen was determined to make history, and he did just that.

Already holding the Welterweight Championship (79kg), he stepped into the ring to challenge for the Middleweight title (84kg) following the recent restructuring of the promotion’s weight divisions. The result was nothing short of explosive.

Coxen knocked out Pretorius in the first round, extending his undefeated streak and walking away with a second belt slung over his shoulder.

“Pretorius was a different kind of fighter, but I managed to knock him out in the first round,” Coxen said.

“I won’t lie, he landed some heavy shots, but nothing could shake me.”

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The build-up to the bout was intense. Coxen underwent a rigorous training regime, dedicating long hours to hard drills and muscle conditioning, with both morning and afternoon sessions pushing his physical and mental limits.

This fight held even more meaning for the fighter, as it coincided with Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Wearing pink trunks, Coxen dedicated the match to all those battling the disease, particularly women, and most personally, his late aunt.

“I dedicated this fight to the ladies fighting breast cancer. My aunt battled it until her passing. That’s why I say what we do in the ring is nothing compared to what they go through,” he said.

Coxen is turning his attention to new challenges. With the blessing of Titan, he has set his sights on competing in a new promotion in November, hoping to attract the attention of larger international organisations.

“I’ve already cemented my legacy in the bare-knuckle space within my promotion,” Coxen stated.

“I asked if I could fight in another promotion, and Titan said yes. Next November, I’ll step into a different arena with the hope of being scouted by the big dogs.”

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Reflecting on his journey, Coxen shared a heartfelt dedication to his young daughter.

“She jokingly said, ‘Daddy, I have two shoulders, so you should have two belts—one for each.’ This win is for her.”

He also extended his gratitude to the community of Elsburg, who have stood by him from the start.

“Thank you to everyone who’s prayed for me, wished me well, and even stopped me for a picture. To my students, you push me every day.

To my family, you’re the reason I do this. And to my coaches and the whole village of support behind me, thank you from the bottom of my heart,” said Coxen.

“Elsburg can now proudly say it has a true double champion. It is bringing pride to the community and inspiring the next generation of fighters.”