Stephen Thompson is all set to make his much-awaited return at UFC 296 on December 16. Thompson, one of the most highly coveted veterans of the game, is a joy to witness. However, with his warmth and genuine personality, he has also become an amazing person to interact with for fans.
Following his win against Kevin Holland in 2022, it has been a long layoff for Stephen Thompson. Having been scheduled to take on Michel Pereira at UFC 291, Thompson opted out of the matchup after his opponent missed weight. Since then, he has been pining for an opportunity to fight any exciting contender.
Ahead of his return, ‘Wonderboy‘ was asked to share his thoughts on a potential GSP vs. Nick Diaz 2 fight at the all-important UFC 300. Speaking to Submission Radio, he said, “Against somebody like Nick Diaz, I don’t think that would be very interesting. I think it would be very smart for GSP to take it, in the fact that I know he would just dominate Nick Diaz”. Further, Stephen also expressed his concern for Nick Diaz after his last fight.
Previously, Nick made his return at UFC 266 against Robbie Lawler. On the night, Diaz did not make a good case for himself, leading many, including Lawler, to genuinely express concern for him. Further, the 40-year-old was unable to speak in a comprehensible manner either. Thus, it is clear that nobody wants to see him inside an Octagon ever again.
Stephen Thompson reveals that he is still scared to fight Georges St-Pierre
As for Georges St-Pierre, he is still going strong and is still in incredible shape. One of the most decorated fighters of all time, the Canadian has firmly established himself on Mt. Rushmore of MMA. Thus, it is not difficult to imagine Georges completely dominating Nick Diaz in their rematch.
Speaking about a fight with GSP himself, even Thompson believes that it would be a very bad matchup for him, even today. Speaking in the interview, Thompson said, “I wouldn’t want to face someone like GSP to this day. Like if they asked me tomorrow to fight him, I would say no. It would not be good for me”. One of the most well-rounded fighters of all time, GSP would still be a problem for many fighters even today.
Stephen Thompson and Shavkat Rakhmonov agree to UFC 296 showdown
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Currently, the 40-year-old is set to take on Shavkat Rakhmonov at UFC 296. Despite rumors of a potential fight against former champ Kamaru Usman, ‘Wonderboy’ will be given a rising prospect to contend with. This is potentially a career-ending fight for Thompson; he is coming into the fight ready for an absolute war. Despite losses to Gilbert Burns and Belal Muhammad, Stephen hardly took any damage. Thus, he wishes to have an absolute war and go out on his shield if it comes to it.
As for his opponent, Shavkat Rakhmonov is one of the most highly touted prospects in the UFC right now. Following the rumors KOing Ian Garry in training, there is no doubt that ‘Nomad’ is a dangerous man. Moreover, Shavkat is seen as a future champion, so if Stephen is to win, it would immediately set him up for a potential title shot as well.