In the co-main event of this weekend’s UFC on FOX 18, former UFC heavyweight champion Josh Barnett (34-7 MMA, 6-2 UFC) faces off against the former IFL star Ben Rothwell (35-9 MMA, 5-3 UFC). This three-rounder acts as the co-main event to a long-anticipated light heavyweight showdown between Anthony “Rumble” Johnson and Ryan Bader.
With the recent injury bug in the heavyweight division, the winner of this bout could find themselves on the verge of a title shot. The main card for UFC on FOX 18 airs on Fox on Saturday, January 30th at 8 PM ET/5 PM PT.
How do these two stack up?
Barnett: 38 years old | 6’3″ | 78″ reach
Rothwell: 34 years old | 6’4″ | 79″ reach
What have these two done recently?
Barnett: W – Roy Nelson (UD) | L – Travis Browne (KO) | W – Frank Mir (KO)
Rothwell: W – Matt Mitrione (SUB) | W – Alistair Overeem (TKO) | W – Brandon Vera (TKO)
How did these two get here?
There are few men left in the heavyweight division with as much experience as Josh Barnett. Barnett has been a figure in the sport from its growth from mediocrity to its current successful incarnation. Over the years, Barnett has won the UFC title, failed numerous drug tests and taken part in some of the most legendary fights in the history of MMA. In his last outing against Roy Nelson, Josh Barnett looked absolutely amazing and a good performance against Rothwell would likely propel him into contendership.
Ben Rothwell has become the heavyweight division’s lovable underdog. Over the last few years, Rothwell has pulled off some high profile upsets, most notably a knockout victory over former Strikeforce champion Alistair Overeem. He had been scheduled to face Stipe Miocic in October, but that fight was unfortunately scrapped due to injury. In his last appearance, Rothwell looked very impressive en route to submitting Matt Mitrione.
Why should you care?
There is an injury bug eating away at the heavyweight division and with a win, either of these guys could enter the title picture.