Credit: Zuffa LLC
Stephen Thompson, one of the most decorated strikers in Mixed Martial Arts history, will fight one last time at UFC 334.
Former UFC welterweight title challenger Stephen Thompson is still competing well into his 40s, as he prepares to fight Charles Radtke at UFC 334 at Madison Square Garden. The card is headlined by a heavyweight title fight between Ciryl Gane and Josh Hokit, and features a Kayla Harrison vs. Amanda Nunes co-main event.
Thompson has repeatedly dismissed retirement speculation in recent years. Despite losses in five of his last six fights, Thompson still believes he can compete against some of the top welterweights in the world.
At 43 years old, Thompson is on the home stretch of his legendary Mixed Martial Arts career. According to the man himself, Thompson will make one final walk to the Octagon on one of the biggest cards of 2026.
Stephen Thompson announces retirement at UFC 334 after Hall of Fame-worthy run
In a recent interview with Ozoon, Thompson announced that his fight at UFC 334 will be his last hurrah in Mixed Martial Arts.
“It’s my last one,” Thompson said. “What better place to have it than Madison Square Garden, New York City?
“My body feels good. I feel great. I can keep going. But I have a baby girl. … ‘Wonderdad’ now. That definitely changes your mindset a little bit. We’ll see as she’s older where I’m at. You might see me again.” (h/t MMA Junkie)
Thompson made his UFC debut against Dan Stittgen at UFC 143, winning by first-round head kick knockout. The kickboxing legend went on to earn wins over the likes of Kevin Holland, Johny Hendricks, and Jorge Masvidal during his career.
Thompson fought for the belt twice in his UFC tenure, fighting to a majority draw against Tyron Woodley at UFC 205 before a loss in their immediate rematch at UFC 209. Despite impressive performances in the latter stages of his career, Thompson never made it back to the title conversation.
Thompson will look to add one more highlight-reel knockout at UFC 334. Afterwards, Thompson’s next MMA stop might be the UFC Hall of Fame.
What is your favorite memory from Stephen Thompson’s UFC career? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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