47-Year-Old Arlovski Brutally KOs Rothwell at BKFC KnuckleMania 6

Veteran MMA fighter Andrei Arlovski secures BKFC heavyweight title with third-round TKO victory over Ben Rothwell.

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

In a stunning display of resilience, 47-year-old Andrei Arlovski defeated Ben Rothwell via third-round TKO at BKFC KnuckleMania 6 in Philadelphia. The former UFC heavyweight champion dominated the fight, consistently outmaneuvering and outstrikingRothwell, a former BKFC heavyweight titleholder. The bout was stopped by the ringside physician due to the severity of Rothwell's injuries, marking a triumphant comeback for the veteran Arlovski.

Why it matters

Arlovski's victory at his advanced age highlights the continued appeal of experienced MMA fighters in the bare-knuckle boxing arena. This trend suggests that BKFC may continue to attract established combat sports athletes seeking new challenges and opportunities to showcase their skills.

The details

Arlovski landed powerful right hands and one-two combinations throughout the fight, visibly damaging Rothwell as early as the second round. Rothwell appeared sluggish and unable to effectively counter Arlovski's attacks. The ringside physician ultimately stopped the contest in the third round due to the severity of Rothwell's injuries, including a severe cut and compromised vision.

  • The fight took place on Saturday, February 8, 2026 at the Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia.
  • The main event bout between Arlovski and Rothwell was the third fight in their trilogy, with Arlovski now leading the series 3-0.

The players

Andrei Arlovski

A 47-year-old former UFC heavyweight champion who secured the BKFC heavyweight title with his victory over Rothwell.

Ben Rothwell

A former BKFC heavyweight champion who was unable to overcome Arlovski's dominance, leading to the stoppage of the fight due to his injuries.

Lorenzo Hunt

The winner of the co-main event, who defeated David Mundell by fourth-round knockout, potentially disrupting a planned matchup between Mundell and Mike Perry.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

Arlovski's victory sets the stage for potential future matchups, including a possible bout against Leonardo Perdomo, a fighter known for his aggressive style and first-round finishes.

The takeaway

Arlovski's dominant performance at 47 years old demonstrates the continued appeal of experienced MMA veterans in the bare-knuckle boxing arena, suggesting that BKFC may continue to attract established combat sports athletes seeking new challenges and opportunities to showcase their skills.