Chris Barnett’s Classic Knockout vs Mario Rinaldi | UFC 321 Hype
At XFC 13: Unstoppable in Tampa, Florida, fans witnessed a heavyweight clash between Chris Barnett and Mario Rinaldi. This matchup, which ended with a dramatic TKO victory for Barnett in Round 2, quickly became a highlight in early American MMA history. Barnett’s athletic style and spinning attacks would go on to define his career and set him apart as one of the sport’s most entertaining heavyweights.
Chris Barnett’s Journey from XFC to the UFC
Known as “Beastboy,” Barnett’s charisma and unique striking brought him cult status well before his UFC debut. After building his record across regional promotions, his knockout artistry earned him a place on the global stage. Fans remember not just the power of his finish against Rinaldi, but also the athleticism and creativity he brought into the cage—a style rarely seen in the heavyweight division.
Barnett’s Upcoming Fight at UFC 321
Now, the focus shifts to Barnett’s upcoming test against Hamdy Abdelwahab. The two will square off in a high-stakes bout that could reshape the landscape of the heavyweight division. With Barnett’s highlight-reel history, including spinning wheel kicks and crowd-pleasing finishes, the anticipation is high for another viral moment. His fight against Abdelwahab at UFC 321 has fans buzzing with excitement.
The Heavyweight Main Event: Tom Aspinall vs Ciryl Gane
UFC 321 is stacked, with a heavyweight main event featuring Aspinall vs Gane. As Barnett prepares to return to the Octagon on the same card, he has the chance to steal the spotlight with another spectacular performance. The combination of an elite heavyweight title fight and Barnett’s unpredictable style makes UFC 321 one of the most anticipated cards of 2025.
Why This Barnett Fight Still Matters
Revisiting Chris Barnett’s fight against Rinaldi isn’t just a trip down memory lane—it highlights the foundation of what made him a fan favorite. His XFC 13 performance showcased grit, explosiveness, and showmanship that continue to define his UFC career today. With UFC 321 approaching, the timing couldn’t be better to look back at his roots and understand why so many fans rally behind “Beastboy.”
Barnett’s story is a reminder that MMA is about more than just wins and losses—it’s about moments that resonate. His TKO of Rinaldi belongs in that category, and with UFC 321 ahead, fans are eager to see if he can create another chapter just as unforgettable.
