Ben Rothwell to headline BKFC 79, promotion's first event in Australia
BKFC is bringing bareknuckle boxing to Australia for an event headlined by a current heavyweight champion and UFC veteran, Ben Rothwell.
On Saturday, July 19, BKFC 79 will take place at RAC Arena in Perth, Australia. It will be the promotion's first event on the continent. The promotion offically announced the event Tuesday.
"Australia has long been on our radar," BKFC president David Feldman said in a press release. "The energy, the fans, and the venue are all perfect for showcasing BKFC. This isn't just a fight night – it's the beginning of a new era of combat sports in Australia."
Rothwell (4-0 BKFC) currently holds the BKFC heavyweight crown, but the title will not be on the line in a main event super heavyweight bout against Australian powerlifting champion Alex Simon (0-0 BKFC). Following his exit from the UFC, Rothwell has ripped through four opponents under the BKFC banner, winning each by stoppage. In his last outing at BKFC: KnuckleMania 5, Rothwell knocked out Mick Terrill to become champion.
Simon will make his BKFC debut on home soil. "Godly Strong" has dabbled in traditional boxing and MMA, building a record of 1-2 and 1-1, respectively.
Also on the card will be UFC veteran Bec Rawlings (4-3 BKFC), who takes on Jade Masson-Wong (3-2). Another heavyweight from Australia, Haze Hepi (1-0 BKFC) will also compete at the event against an opponet to be named.
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