“Wonderboy” Solidifies Next-in-line Status – UFC News

By JM “Shade” Daguio

Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson put on masterful, tactical fight against UFC welterweight contender Rory MacDonald.

Thompson came in using a lot of his versatility with his karate and kickboxing background. McDonald was tough customer, which is not surprising since he is the hometown hero and the number 1 contender for many years, it panned out to be a tactical chess match.
Thompson, who is used to getting his way in terms of finishing fights didn’t get his desired KO win but it was a revelation of the upstart welterweight’s resolve.

Thompson did not rush, he was very patient in coming in with his kicks and punches. He also countered well and stuffed all of MacDonald’s takedown.

MacDonald – who lost 2 in a row for the first time – came in very tentative and cautious. He was clearly worried about Thompson’s looping strikes, MacDonald looked to try and submit Thompson to no-avail. McDonald also failed desperately to take “Wonderboy” down, however in the latter rounds MacDonald was able to cut Thompson’s movement and landed big shots but it was a little too late for the Canadian. Thompson was elusive enough to stay out of MacDonald’s trap.

Thompson went on to win via unanimous decision 50-45 (twice) and 48-47.

This is Thompson’s 7th straight win, in the post fight interview he expressed his desire to get his long overdue title shot against the winner of Robbie Lawler versus Tyrone Woodley in July 30th for UFC 202.

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