Andrei Arlovski still has Ben Rothwell’s number and has added another championship to his impressive record.In the main event of BKFC: KnuckleMania 6, former UFC champion Arlovski faced the new BKFC heavyweight champion for the third time in combat sports and the first in bare-knuckle boxing.Arlovski won the first two MMA battles before winning the third in a different sport. The official outcome was a TKO stoppage due to cuts at 1:14 in Round 3.
Rothwell was more timid than usual in the BKFC ring, and Arlovski took full advantage.Arlovski pushed Rothwell into the tight ropes and clipped him with a few clean punches in Round 1.Arlovski was also quicker to the punch in Round 2, resulting in a serious cut. In the final seconds, Arlovski unleashed a vicious combination that sent Rothwell flying into the ropes.Arlovski’s accurate right hands did not cause him to fall, but they certainly caused him pain.
The referee asked the doctor to check on Rothwell before the third round began, but the fight went on. Rothwell struggled to keep up with Arlovski’s pace and precision.With less than a minute left in the round, the action was delayed so the doctor could examine the gashes on Rothwell’s face once again and that was the end of it.
The two first met in MMA at Affliction 1 in July 2008. Arlovski won that fight via TKO in the third round. More than a decade later, the rematch was held at UFC on ESPN 4. Once again, Arlovski’s hand was raised, this time unanimously.Arlovski, 47, hasn’t lost a fight since leaving the UFC in 2024.
Since then, he’s won four fights via stoppage: two in BKFC, one in the Dirty Boxing Championship, and an exhibition boxing match under the Misfits Boxing banner.Rothwell, 44, dominated the competition at BKFC following his UFC leave. He won the heavyweight title in his fourth bout, stopping Mick Terrill in just 36 seconds last January.However, his incredible journey came to an end at the hands of a familiar rival.
BKFC: KnuckleMania 6 Official Results
Andrei Arlovski defeated Ben Rothwell via TKO (doctor’s stoppage) in Round 3, 1:14, for the heavyweight title.while Lorenzo Hunt was defeated. David Mundell by knockout Round 4, 0:29 John Garbarino defeated Kaine Tomlinson Jr. via TKO (referee stoppage) in Round 5, at 0:49. Ben Bonner prevails.
Arlovski’s Precision Makes the Difference
As the contest progressed, Arlovski’s technical advantage became increasingly noticeable. The former UFC heavyweight champion displayed excellent footwork and composure under pressure.
Several sharp punches opened cuts and caused significant damage to Rothwell’s face. Despite absorbing punishment, Rothwell continued moving forward and searching for opportunities to turn the fight in his favor.
However, Arlovski remained disciplined throughout the bout. His ability to mix defense with effective counterattacks frustrated Rothwell and helped him control many of the key exchanges.
The Belarusian veteran demonstrated why experience remains one of the most valuable assets in combat sports. Every movement appeared calculated, and his ability to stay calm in high-pressure situations proved crucial.
Rothwell Shows Incredible Toughness
Although the result did not go his way, Ben Rothwell earned respect for his determination and durability. The heavyweight veteran refused to back down despite facing a difficult challenge against an experienced opponent.
Rothwell absorbed several damaging strikes but continued pressing forward in search of a fight-changing moment. His toughness and willingness to engage kept the contest competitive and entertained fans throughout the event.
There were moments when Rothwell appeared capable of shifting momentum. A few powerful combinations drew loud reactions from the crowd and reminded everyone of his knockout power.
Unfortunately for Rothwell, Arlovski consistently answered with effective counters and maintained control when it mattered most.
Gold Secured at KnuckleMania 6
As the final rounds unfolded, it became increasingly clear that Arlovski’s performance had separated him from his opponent. His superior accuracy, defensive awareness, and ring generalship allowed him to build a convincing advantage.
When the fight concluded, the judges recognized Arlovski’s efforts and awarded him the victory. The win secured gold and marked another milestone in a remarkable fighting career that has spanned multiple decades and organizations.
Celebrations erupted as Arlovski embraced his team and acknowledged the fans who supported him throughout the event.
A New Chapter for a Legendary Career
For Andrei Arlovski, the victory represents more than just another win. It serves as proof that even after years of competing at the highest levels of combat sports, he remains capable of performing against elite competition.
His success at KnuckleMania 6 highlights the value of experience, preparation, and adaptability. While many fighters struggle to remain competitive later in their careers, Arlovski continues to evolve and find success in new environments.
As for Ben Rothwell, the defeat is undoubtedly disappointing, but his performance demonstrated the heart and toughness that have defined his career. Fans will be eager to see what comes next for both heavyweights.
KnuckleMania 6 delivered exactly what combat sports fans hoped for a dramatic, hard-fought battle between two respected veterans. In the end, Andrei Arlovski emerged victorious, claiming gold and adding another memorable achievement to his legacy.
Sarah Williams is a sports news reporter covering all major American sports including NBA, NFL, MLB, and NHL. With 4 years of experience in sports journalism, Sarah specializes in breaking news, trending stories, and exclusive sports updates. Her fast-paced reporting style keeps sports fans informed and engaged. Sarah is a core member of the USA News Point editorial team.
