Tonight, Kenosha pride is front and center as Ben “Big” Rothwell, a local legend and the reigning BKFC Heavyweight World Champion, steps into the ring for his most anticipated fight yet. Under the bright lights of Philadelphia’s Xfinity Mobile Arena, Rothwell will defend his title at KnuckleMania VI, facing longtime rival and combat sports veteran Andrei “The Pitbull” Arlovski in a decisive trilogy showdown.
Rothwell: From Kenosha Roots to Global Stage
Rothwell’s journey is one written with grit and determination – the hallmarks of his Kenosha upbringing. He began his fighting days in small local gyms, building the foundation that would carry him to the summit of combat sports. Now at 44, Rothwell’s career spans over twenty years, marked by championship gold, highlight-reel knockouts, and a reputation for toughness that has made him a fan favorite.
What sets Rothwell apart isn’t just his staggering knockout power or his notorious gogo choke; it’s his strong bond with Kenosha and his commitment to representing his hometown. His win at KnuckleMania V, where he claimed the heavyweight crown with a jaw-dropping first-round finish against Mick Terrill, stands as a defining moment for both athlete and city.
The Rivalry Comes Full Circle
Tonight’s matchup is more than a typical defense–it’s a battle for legacy and closure. Rothwell and Arlovski share history: the two heavyweights have met twice before in MMA, with Arlovski taking the previous victories. Now, they meet on a new battlefield and under different rules, with Rothwell hungry to even the score.
Throughout fight week, Rothwell has spoken passionately about the stakes. For him, this fight is a chance to rewrite history, silence the doubters, and solidify his place among bare-knuckle boxing’s all-time greats. He carries into the ring not only the gold, but the lessons and pride of his Kenosha roots.
How to Watch and Support Ben Rothwell
Kenosha fans have several ways to catch the action and support Ben Rothwell in his championship bout tonight. Here are the streaming options:
- DAZN: Access the event with a standard DAZN subscription, which includes a variety of major fights.
- Fubo Sports: The fight will be available to stream live on Fubo Sports.
- BKFC.com: Watch the event live directly through the official BKFC website.
- BKFC YouTube Channel: For those looking for a free viewing option, the BKFC YouTube channel will stream the fight live at no cost.
Be sure to check each streaming service for regional availability to ensure you don’t miss a moment of the action as Rothwell fights for his legacy.
Photo credit: Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC)
More Than a Championship: Tonight’s True Meaning
Ben Rothwell’s first title defense goes far beyond wins and losses. This fight is about redemption, inspiring those who watched him grow up in Kenosha, and proving that perseverance and heart can take you from the Midwest to a world stage. Regardless of the outcome, Rothwell’s relentless spirit, humility, and loyalty to his hometown have already secured him a permanent spot in Kenosha’s hall of fame.
As he makes his way to the ring tonight, Rothwell carries with him the love and energy of Kenosha – a city that celebrates its champions and rallies behind its own. Let’s stand together and cheer on “Big Ben” as he looks to make history once again.
