David Rickels has pulled off many a cosplay in his lengthy combat sports career, but perhaps none that can relate to the average MMA fan more than the one at Thursday’s BKFC 23 weigh-ins.

Dressed as WWE star “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, Rickels went full “Texas Rattlesnake” with Coors Lights in hand. Shaved head, black vest, and all, Rickels flipped a beer to opponent and fellow Bellator alum Mike Richman – like he’s done it a million times before. That’s probably because he has done it a million times before. Rickels seems like the kind of guy who is well-versed in having a good cold one and a good conversation to go along with it.

Fighters always talk about the bond shared by fighting someone for three to five rounds of face-punching. That’s something I cannot say I’ve experienced. However, I do know the bond that comes from chugging beers with someone in front of a cheering audience – and that’s certainly special.

Conversely – as the two fighters chugged away, with Rickels finding the bottom of the can before Richman – you’ve got to wonder what kind of psychological effect that’ll have on Friday’s five-round main event. It’s safe to say both fighters are entering the bout with a mix of emotions – thanks to Coors Light.

BKFC 23 takes place Friday at Intrust Bank Arena in Wichita, Kan. and streams on FITE.

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