Stipe Miocic vs. Ben Rothwell Confirmed as UFC Fight Night 76 Co-Main Event

The Ultimate Fighting Championship on Friday confirmed the rumored bout between Stipe Miocic and Ben Rothwell. The bout will serve as the UFC Fight Night 76 co-main event on Oct. 24 in Dublin.

The winner of this bout makes a strong case for a shot at the heavyweight title currently wrapped around Fabrico Werdum’s waist.

The No. 3 ranked heavyweight in the UFC, Miocic (12-2) was already in the running for a championship challenge before the UFC shifted gears and put Werdum in an immediate rematch with former champion Cain Velasquez.

RELATED > UFC Heavyweight Champ Fabricio Werdum’s First Defense? Cain Velasquez 

Miocic had been streaking towards a title shot in 2014, but had a three-fight winning streak halted by Junior dos Santos in their “Fight of the Night” effort in December. He has since rebounded with a win over Mark Hunt, and wants a shot at the belt.

Rothwell (35-9) is currently ranked at No. 7 and is in the midst of a three-fight winning streak that includes victories over Brandon Vera, Alistair Overeem, and Matt Mitrione.

Like Miocic, he has been campaigning for a title shot and a victory in Dublin would certainly strengthen his case.

Irishman Joseph Duffy headlines the UFC Fight Night 76 card, as he faces Dustin Poirier in a five-round lightweight contest.