News broke this week that former top heavyweight UFC contender “Big” Ben Rothwell (39-14) signed an exclusive deal with BKFC. The deal comes on the heels of his UFC release which recently took place.
Prior to being released, Rothwell was tentatively scheduled to face off against Alexander Gustafsson in May. However, the 40 year old decided to request his release and the UFC granted his wish. That wish led to a big contract with BKFC.
Rothwell opened up to everything yesterday on Ariel Helwani’s MMA Hour. He talked about the fact that there was no bad blood between him in the UFC but the move was more of a business decision and I think he made the right one.
Rothwell talked about his place in the heavyweight division along with what he was currently getting paid. After he was released, BKFC came forward with a big offer that is going to see Rothwell making more than he ever has.
Rothwell is what BKFC wanted
BKFC President David Feldman told MMA Junkie that Rothwell is exactly what they wanted in terms of a free agent. Feldman said that the promotion knew that Rothwell’s contract was coming up after his next UFC fight and they were prepared to make him an offer.
However, after he was released and became available earlier than expected, they didn’t want to miss out. Feldman said, “It was the perfect time to grab him. He’s a guy that displays everything we need with Bare Knuckle… He’s exactly what we want, a guy who is either going to knock someone out or stand and get knocked out.”
Rothwell’s style fits right in with BKFC and the promotion is thrilled to have him. You know they are thrilled given the money they threw at him. Rothwell told Ariel Helwani that he would make over seven figures combined for his first three fights with BKFC.