Gzim Selmani, known to wrestling fans as Rezar from the Authors of Pain, made a striking debut in bare-knuckle fighting, securing a victory over Dan Curtin with a decisive knockout in the second round. The event took place on March 14, 2026, showcasing Selmani’s transition from professional wrestling to combat sports.
In his post-fight comments, Selmani expressed his determination, stating, “I came from WWE with one goal — to knock out anyone placed in front of me.” This victory marks a significant milestone in Selmani’s career, as it is his first fight since his release from WWE in February 2025, where he achieved notable success alongside his partner, Sunny Dhinsa.
Before joining WWE, Selmani had a background in mixed martial arts, where he compiled a record of 6-2. During his tenure in WWE, the Authors of Pain captured both the NXT Tag Team Championship and the WWE Raw Tag Team Championship. Their performances in the ring garnered them a dedicated fan base, but Selmani’s recent shift to bare-knuckle fighting highlights his versatility as an athlete.
Selmani’s last fight prior to this bout was in October 2014 at Bellator 130, where he faced Daniel Gallemore and suffered a TKO. The significant gap between fights has only intensified the excitement surrounding his return to competitive combat, and his successful debut has set the stage for future matches in the bare-knuckle arena.
The victory not only showcases Selmani’s striking ability but also raises questions about his future in this new discipline. Fans and analysts alike will be keen to see how he builds on this success and whether he can replicate his wrestling achievements in a different sport.
With this impressive performance, Selmani has made it clear that he is not just a former WWE star but a serious contender in bare-knuckle fighting. As he looks ahead to future bouts, his determination and experience from his wrestling days could play a crucial role in his ongoing journey in the fighting world.
