Heavyweight veteran Ben Rothwell spoiled the Octagon debut of Chris Barnett earlier tonight (Sat., May 22, 2021) at UFC Vegas 27 live on ESPN+ from inside UFC APEX in Las Vegas, Nevada, when “Big Ben” scored a second-round submission finish (guillotine choke).
Despite filling in on short notice Barnett came out swinging and tried to take Rothwell’s head off. Unfortunately for Barnett, Rothwell has a head of stone and ate every shot. Rothwell was able to tire Barnett in the first with some good top pressure before brining it back to the ground in the second. That’s where “Big Ben” quickly locked up the choke and eventual finish.
Check out the video highlights above courtesy of UFC/ESPN.
This finish lands Rothwell back in the win column after losing a decision to Marcin Tybura in Oct. 2020. It was a good showing for Rothwell who still has the size, experience, and finishing ability to make another run at the heavyweight top 15.
For complete UFC Vegas 27 results and coverage click here.