Anthony Mundine says his latest move in the boxing world will bring crowds and an "explosive" new spectacle to his home state, if given the green light to do so.
On Wednesday, the former world champion announced his venture into the "next biggest craze" and "purest" form of combat , unveiling World Bare Knuckle Fighting via Mundine Promotions.
Mundine, with partners Gosh Daher and Oliver Joseski, are hopeful of hosting a debut card in May.
"It's the purest form of combat fighting," Mundine said at the brand launch at Redfern Oval, "everyone is mesmerised by it."
"We want to bring the best events and best fights that we possibly can".
Overseas, UFC champion and global combat star Conor McGregor has been a driving force behind growing popularity of the deviation from gloved-up bouts following his purchase of a stake in the US-based Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship.
Cleared in Queensland and Victoria, Mundine and his team are pursuing a sit-down with the NSW Government to get events sanctioned at home in the state.
Alongside the excitement factor it promises, Mundine said it's far from a new form, and also gives the opportunities for fighters to transition from other disciplines.
"I'm very excited about it. It's going gangbusters overseas…people are really buying into it and want to see more," the rugby league star turned mutli-time world champion told National Indigenous Times.
"Our team thought we could do it on these shores, and bring the best fights, the most competitive fights and entertainment - be as exciting and explosive as we can."
Fellow NRL champion-turned boxer Paul Gallen and Australian world champion fighter Billy Dib joined at the launch.
Gosh Daher, who combines with Mundine at MGM (Gosh Mundine Management), told National Indigenous Times: "Whatever Anthony does, he does first. Boxing to football (now this), he's been a pioneer".
Close to four years since his last official bout, Mundine himself is set to step into the ring next month - with gloves on, for an exhibition fundraiser against kickboxing world champion Prince Bunjaku.
The fight, set for six-rounds in Tasmania on March 15, will raise funds for the Peter MacCallum Cancer Hospital in Melbourne.
