Former UFC star Ben Rothwell is eyeing up a blockbuster boxing clash against two-time world champion Anthony Joshua.
Following a notable 12-year tenure with the UFC where he compiled an impressive professional MMA record of 39 wins and 14 losses, including 28 knockouts, Rothwell has made a name for himself with his knockout power and ability to abruptly terminate bouts.
Since departing from the UFC in 2021, ‘Big Ben’ ventured into the realm of bare knuckle fighting and swiftly notched up three knockouts in BKFC, culminating in his viral victory that clinched him the heavyweight title at Knuckle Mania 5. He defeated Mick Terrill in just 36 seconds, pocketing $150,000 for his efforts.
Now a free agent after four fights in BKFC, Rothwell is setting his sights on stepping into the squared circle, naming Anthony Joshua as part of his ultimate fight wish list. During an interview on The Ariel Helwani Show, Rothwell shared his aspirations: “Right now I’m a free agent, I very much love the BKFC, I love David Feldman and I would like to continue, even finish my career here.
“How much time have I got? Maybe a year or so, it really depends. But Francis Ngannou, Anthony Joshua, guys who beat them guys. To put the gloves on and prove how good at boxing I am would very much be a bucket list. I just don’t feel like I’ve ever gotten to show the boxing world how good of a boxer I am.”
He further clarified his point by adding, “Right now the BKFC and UFC fans just say I’m a brawler. They don’t understand my precision, they don’t understand how capable I truly am but if I got to fight one of them that would be a huge opportunity for me to show the world how good I really am.”
Regarding his current title and future prospects, he stated: “Before I am done fighting, I want to bring as much respect to this belt as possible. If I have to step away for a fight I think the BKFC would back me. I believe we’re going to get something figured out and I will defend this belt.”
Joshua, meanwhile, is keen to return to form after a recent defeat. ‘AJ’ experienced a profound setback with a knockout loss to Daniel Dubois in September. The narrative around Joshua also includes his past encounter with an MMA crossover opponent; the former heavyweight champion faced off against Francis Ngannou last year, delivering a commanding performance that culminated in a knockout victory in the second round.
