Ben Rothwell brutally dethrones BKFC heavyweight champion with 'perfect KO' in 36 seconds

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Ben Rothwell is finally heavyweight champion after winning the BKFC title with a stunning 36-second KO.

Mick Terrill had been on a massive winning run that saw him pick up the heavyweight belt in the end of 2023, but faced a big step up at KnuckleMania in Philadelphia on Saturday night. And it took the American just 36 seconds to defeat him for the title.

Rothwell has always been a fan-favorite for his unique post-fight antics and his explosive fight style, and appears to have found a home for himself in the BKFC ring. On an historic night with a number of viral moments, his was a memorable one in the co-main event.

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Ben Rothwell lands vicious 36-second KO to win BKFC heavyweight title

In the co-main event of Saturday’s Philadelphia showcase, BKFC put a lot on the shoulders of the explosive Ben Rothwell. Since leaving the UFC in 2022, he has established himself alongside Mike Perry as one of the breakout stars of bare-knuckle boxing.

After three brutal knockouts on the bounce, he was given his opportunity at gold on the promotion’s biggest ever stage. It only took him 36 seconds to deliver in style as he dethroned Terrill and finally achieved his heavyweight title dreams.

He slipped the Brit’s attempts to get on the inside and countered with a thunderous right hand which he seemed to know immediately would spell the end of the night. He celebrated before the fight was officially stopped, and was awarded with the belt by promoter David Feldman shortly after.

Ben Rothwell gives another memorable post-fight speech after BKFC title win

After a career filled with bizarre post-fight speeches, fans were keen to see what Rothwell would see after finally winning the belt. And he didn’t disappoint as he was joined in the ring by Feldman and co-owner Conor McGregor for an emotional moment.

“I am filled with so much feeling right now,” he declared. “It’s so hard to even speak, but what I do know is this crowd is one of the most craziest awesome crowds I have ever fought in front of ever. I’ve been doing this in combat sports for 25 years.

“I’m telling you, your energy was in my right hand and you helped me win this title. Philadelphia, f*** yeah! You are awesome.

“I ain’t done yet, Philadelphia, your own David Feldman and the BKFC staff, Conor McGregor, you are absolutely amazing. I wear with pride the BKFC title, you gave me this, thank you. This is incredible to be your champion.”