Heavyweight contender Ben Rothwell joins BK Nation!
Bare Knuckle Nation had the privilege of speaking with one of the biggest names in bare- knuckle fighting, both in popularity and stature, “Big” Ben Rothwell (3-0, 3 KOs). It’s been over six months since we last saw the heavyweight standout, who earned a win over Todd Duffee at KnuckleMania IV. Notably, later that evening, BKFC heavyweight champion Mick Terrill defended his title against Lorenzo Hunt. In the aftermath of that April event, rumors swirled that Rothwell would be the next challenger for Terrill’s throne. I asked Rothwell if he had an update for the rest of the bare-knuckle world.
“(Mick Terrill) and I have both been sitting in the wings, waiting to fight each other. We were told it would be October, then December. Now we’re hearing there’s a big date coming in January, so we’re just keeping our fingers crossed and hoping we get on one of these cards. Hopefully, me and him can go at it and find out who’s the best. It’s going to be a great fight for the fans. I think it’s a huge heavyweight matchup.”
For Terrill, a fight against Lorenzo Hunt and a fight against Rothwell are two very different challenges—Rothwell stands at 6'4" and weighs 275 lbs, while Hunt is a former 185-lb. champion. I asked Big Ben where he sees his advantage in a potential fight with Terrill.
“Not only am I big, I know how to strike. There are plenty of big guys who have no idea how to punch. I really pride myself on my accuracy, especially with the bare knuckles. You put my size with my accuracy, and it’s a bad day for the guy on the receiving end. As far as bare knuckle goes, I’m one of the most dangerous men on the planet.”
Photo Courtesy of BKFC.
Despite the back-and-forth on social media between Terrill and Rothwell for over a year, this is a fight that both the fans and the fighters want. Rothwell has a healthy respect for Terrill but still expects to reign victorious over the current champ.
“I can’t say anything bad about him. It’s not that type of buildup. Personally, he’s a good guy. As far as bare knuckle goes, he’s the more experienced fighter—he has ten fights, and I have three. But on the flip side, I have over 50 professional fights, and I’ve fought some of the baddest men on the planet. When you look at the guys I’ve fought and the guys he’s fought, it’s not the same. I know I can bring something to him that he’s never seen before.”
Rothwell and I finished off with one final message for his fans, who have supported him through over 50 professional fights. Now in his 40s, the former UFC standout is seeking one final accomplishment to bring back to his supporters.
“To my fans: I’m going to win this title for you. You all really want me to win, and I’m going to do it for you. Every one of you who wants a photo of me with the belt, don’t hesitate. I’m here for you. To my new fans who don’t know me yet—if you see my name on one of those cards, you’re going to watch. I’m going to give you what you want to see. Real fans know it. I can only fight one way—I go forward and throw punches until that guy is knocked out.”
Top Photo Courtesy of BKFC.
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