UFC Fight Night: Font vs Garbrandt- Ben Rothwell vs Chris Barnett- Prediction and Analysis

Published 05/20/2021, 7:47 AM EDT

UFC heavyweights Ben Rothwell and Chris Barnett will collide on the preliminary card for UFC Fight Night: Font vs Garbrandt. The card will see the UFC return to their Apex Facility after a successful stint at Houston’s Toyota Center. The leading MMA organization will continue having Fight Night events at the Apex. At least for the rest of the year, they will only venture out to full-capacity stadiums for pay-per-view events.

As is with most heavyweight fights, the mantra ‘Blink and you’ll miss it’ will probably be applicable, as a well-placed blow from either side can close the show. There are plenty of exciting fights on the card and the heavyweights will want to turn in a memorable performance to stand out.

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UFC Vegas 27: Ben Rothwell vs Chris Barnett

‘Big’ Ben Rothwell is coming off a unanimous decision loss in his last fight against Marcin Tybura. Prior to the defeat, he was riding a two-fight win streak, aiming to make a decisive comeback. Rothwell is 2-3 in his last five fights since making a return to the UFC following a three-year hiatus.

Ben Rothwell, who is as well-rounded as they come, has been elite despite not having heavy hands. Moreover, his movement and ability to get in close have traditionally been a long-standing problem for his opponents. Rothwell will be confident that his defensive awareness will be enough to ward off Barnett’s aggressive disposition.

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Chris Barnett, who will make his debut with the organization, has an opportunity to swipe some shine off a veteran fighter. The fighter, who is coming into the organization off a 6-fight win streak, hasn’t lost since October 2017. He’s faced some solid competition before entering the UFC, boasting a 21-6 overall pro record with a win over Walt Harris.

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‘Beast Boy’ Barnett, who has competed at super heavyweight, has dynamite in his fists. However, he’ll have to be wary of Rothwell’s unorthodox movements. Chris Barnett has never submitted in MMA but Rothwell certainly brings an element of grappling prowess to the table.

Prediction: ‘Big’ Ben Rothwell to claim a third-round submission victory

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Darryl Pinto is a senior MMA writer at EssentiallySports. He is currently pursuing his graduate degree in Mass Media (with a specialization in Journalism) out of Xavier’s College and has a year's experience in his current role. Darryl specializes in predictions, reporting, and covering UFC events live.

UFC Fight Night: Font vs Garbrandt- Ben Rothwell vs Chris Barnett- Prediction and Analysis

UFC Vegas 27: Ben Rothwell vs Chris Barnett

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