In a UFC 268 event loaded with big names, title fights, and thrilling matchups, it can be hard for a fighter to stand out amongst the chaos and history that took place at Madison Square Garden on Saturday. But on the preliminary portion of the card, Chris Barnett did just that.
The heavyweight “Beastboy” entered the night 0-1 in his UFC tenure. Having competed in over 30 professional fights just to get his foot in the proverbial Octagon door. A longtime regional veteran who has fought around the globe, Barnett was determined not to let another high-profile opportunity slip away.
On Saturday night he faced Gian Villante, a New York native who had his hopes set on winning what was to be his retirement fight and riding off into the sunset at home. Halfway through the second round, that dream ended.
Chris Barnett was a BIG highlight of the UFC 268 undercard
The 264-pound Barnett threw a mind-bogglingly beautiful spinning wheel kick, catching Villante flush on the side of the head. The former football and wrestling standout fell to the canvas, covering up as Barnett rained down ground-and-pound strikes until the referee intervened.
Barnett’s first UFC victory was a highlight reel moment that will go down in heavyweight lore forever. Equally as entertaining were Barnett’s pre and post-fight behavior.
Barnett danced his way out to the cage before the fight, and to celebrate his viral knockout he showcased more of that uncanny package of agile girth by doing a flip and landing on his derriere like he was a stunt man for Chris Farley in Beverly Hills Ninja.
The impressive win moved Barnett’s record to 22-7, while Villante fell to 17-14 for his career mark.
Post-fight, Barnett urged Villante to stay in the cage during his interview with UFC commentator Joe Rogan, giving props to his opponent and encouraging the crowd to heap cheers upon the retiring veteran.
With a flashy and fan-friendly style, incredible charisma and lightheartedness, and a clear heart of gold, it seems like Chris Barnett will be a fan-favorite sooner rather than later in the UFC’s heavyweight division.
–Field Level Media
