A heavyweight fight between Josh Barnett and Ben Rothwell has been announced for UFC On FOX 18 on January 30th in New Jersey.
The 38 year-old Barnett returned to action in September after almost two years out including a stint as a Road To UFC: Japan coach, defeating Roy Nelson by unanimous decision. Prior to that he’d suffered a 60 second KO loss to Travis Browne is currently ranked No.6 in the division.
Meanwhile, Rothwell has been on a three-fight winning streak, beating the likes of Alistair Overeem, Matt Mitrione and Brandon Vera, and had been booked to fight Stipe Miocic last month in Ireland, but was left frustrated when his opponent pulled out injured and he was also subsequently pulled from the card.
The 34 year-old Rothwell had been calling for a big fight and he’s got it, with a win over Barnett sure to boost him higher up the rankings than his current No.8 spot.
Barnett Vs Rothwell currently looks like being the co-main event of the evening at UFC On FOX 18 with a light-heavyweight clash between Anthony Johnson and Ryan Bader pegged as the show’s headline attraction and Tarec Saffiedine Vs Jake Ellenberger also on course for a main card spot.
