Both Che Mills and Leeroy Barnes (12-14) were in need of an impressive win stepping into the Echo Arena this weekend at Cage Warriors 68. Barnes had gone 0-3 since departing BAMMA, and things didn’t get any easier as he was matched against arguably the most dangerous opponent of his career in the form of UFC veteran Che Mills (16-7).
Similarly, Mills was in search of his first win since leaving the UFC. The dangerous effects of his trademark striking have been greatly missed in recent times, however the Trojan Free Fighter looked prime and rejuvenated against an experienced middleweight veteran.
From the outset, Mills peppered his opponent with clean shot after clean shot. He gave no quarter with a powerful clinch assault, and the ringside crew was soon sprayed with Leeroy’s blood. During a spell on the ground, the doctor was called in to check the cut, but the action continued. Credit where it’s due; Barnes gave it his all, and even gestured to his opponent before rallying himself for an assault, however little could be done as Mills continued his dominance of the contest. With his back agaisnt the fence, Barnes was beaten to the canvas where Mills secured the rear naked choke submission with 14 seconds left to go in the first round.
MMAPLUS caught up with Che Mills just moments after his 1st round demolition of Leeroy Barnes at Cage Warriors 68.
MAIN CARD
Danny Roberts def. Jim Wallhead via TKO (punches) – Round 1, 4:49
Marcelo Costa def. Ronnie Mann via sub (rear-naked choke) – Round 2, 3:35
Mauro Chimento def. Matt Inman via TKO (punches) – Round 1, 1:22
Matt Hallam def. Steve Dinsdale via knockout (punches) – Round 2, 4:03
Che Mills def. Leeroy Barnes via sub (rear-naked choke) – Round 1, 4:46
Dean Garnett def. John Cullen via sub (heel hook) – Round 1, 4:35
PRELIMINARY CARD
Paddy Pimblett def. Conrad Hayes sub (triangle choke/armbar) – Round 1, 3:17
Dez Parker def. Charlie Watts via TKO (punches) – Round 1, 4:42
Adam Ventre def. Anthony Phillips via sub (armbar) – Round 1, 0:47
PRELIMINARY CARD
Azi Thomas def. Ellis Hampson via sub (guillotine choke) – Round 1, 3:20
Photo Credit: Mark Blundell
