Wonderboy

After loss at UFC Vegas 45, what’s next for Wonderboy Thompson?

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This past weekend at UFC Vegas 45, Stephen ‘Wonderboy’ Thompson (16-6-1) took on Belal Muhammad (20-3, 1 NC) in the co-main event of the evening. This was a big matchup for the welterweight division.

Wonderboy was trying to bounce back after his loss to Gilbert Burns over the summer. Had Wonderboy won that fight, he would’ve likely been the next in line for a shot at the UFC welterweight title.

However, Burns got the best of him. Burns was able to use a grappling heavy attack to neutralize the great striker Wonderboy. Given his wrestling background, many thought that Belal Muhammad would institute that same gameplan.

Turns out, that’s exactly what happened. From the opening bell at UFC Vegas 45, Muhammad gave Wonderboy no space to operate. Wonderboy was stifled by the attack and really couldn’t get anything going.

When they were in space, Wonderboy was definitely landing the better shots. However, those moments of space were few and very far between. In the end, Muhammad won a very lopsided decision at UFC Vegas 45.

What’s next after UFC Vegas 45?

This was a really tough one for Wonderboy Thompson. Had he won this fight, he would’ve likely only been one more impressive win from a title shot. However, he fell short again and now he’s looking at a complete reset after back-to-back losses.

With that, who should the UFC pair him with next? Well, the most logical matchup for Wonderboy would be another fighter who is a terrible matchup for him stylistically.

If you’re looking at the division, a great next fight would be Michael Chiesa (17-6). Both men have suffered back-to-back losses and are at a similar spot in the division. Again, this is a tough spot for Wonderboy given the matchup.

Another potential fight could be a fight with Neil Magny (25-8). Magny is 4-1 in his last five and his last win is the same as Wonderboy’s and that’s a decision win over Geoff Neal. This would be another solid route for the UFC to go.

Belal Muhammad dominates Wonderboy Thompson at UFC Vegas 45

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Belal Muhammad, Demian Maia

In the co-main event of UFC Vegas 45 we saw a showdown between top welterweight contenders. Former title challenger Stephen ‘Wonderboy’ Thompson (16-5-1) returned to take on Belal Muhammad (19-3, 1 NC).

The last time we saw Wonderboy was back at UFC 264. That night, he lost a decision to Gilbert Burns. That loss snapped a two-fight winning streak. Had he won that night, he would’ve likely earned a UFC title shot.

However, Burns was able to best him which has caused him to reset. Wonderboy is still near the very top of the welterweight division but he needs to string together another set of wins before setting his eyes on the title.

Wonderboy was looking for the first of those wins at UFC Vegas 45. However, he has a tough test in Belal Muhammad. Muhammad hasn’t suffered a true loss in the UFC since his decision loss to Geoff Neal back in 2019.

He’s gone 5-0, 1 NC in his last six fights. The last time we saw Muhammad was against Demian Maia back at UFC 263. It was a lackluster fight but Muhammad got the decision win. He was looking for his biggest UFC win tonight.

UFC Vegas 45 Recap

Round 1

The UFC Vegas 45 co-main event kicked off with a touch of the gloves. Immediate pressure from Muhammad and Wonderboy lands a side kick to the body. High kick from Wonderboy lands and Muhammad shoots for a takedown.

Nice takedown defense from Thompson and he lands a couple of shots on Muhammad. Nice combination from Wonderboy on the break. Muhammad goes right back on the pressure as he’s looking to get a takedown. Muhammad gets deep on a takedown attempt and drags Wonderboy down against the fence.

The two men are trading shots along the fence and Wonderboy is using the fence trying to get up. Thompson works his way back to his feet and Muhammad presses him against the fence. Wonderboy reverses things and lands a nice knee to the body before separating.

However, the separation lasts for only seconds as Muhammad goes right back in for a takedown. He’s relentless with this attempt and gets Wonderboy down. Wonderboy gets back to his feet but Muhammad is able to get to his back.

A big slam from Muhammad and he gets the back mount. Thompson gets flattened out and Muhammad starts going to work on the ground and pound. Wonderboy is in trouble but not much time left. The round ends and it’s 1-0 Belal Muhammad at UFC Vegas 45.

Round 2

Entering the second round at UFC Vegas 45 and Wonderboy has to keep this fight standing. They touch gloves and Muhammad goes right back on the pressure. Nice left straight lands for Wonderboy. Head kick from Wonderboy is blocked by Muhammad.

Nice combination lands for Wonderboy. More pressure from Muhammad but he eats another combination from Wonderboy. However, Muhammad is able to get deep on a takedown attempt and he drags Thompson to the ground.

Wonderboy uses the fence and is able to get back to his feet. However, Muhammad keeps pressing and uses an ankle pick to get Wonderboy down to the ground. Muhammad is attacking a kimura but can’t quite lock it in.

Not much action here as Muhammad continues to control Wonderboy here. Muhammad transitions to side control as he continues to look for the kimura. Not much Wonderboy can do here with under a minute left in the round. The round ends and it was a dominant one for Belal Muhammad at UFC Vegas 45.

Round 3

Entering the final round at UFC Vegas 45 and Wonderboy is going to need a finish. Muhammad immediately goes on the pressure and Wonderboy tries to land a big combination. However, Muhammad gets a body lock and pushes him up against the fence.

Muhammad gets the takedown and gets right into a dominant position. Wonderboy is using the fence to try and get up. However, Muhammad is landing some decent shots in the clinch here. Wonderboy uses the fence and gets up to his feet.

That said, Muhammad is not giving him any space. Wonderboy gets a break and lands a shot but immediately takes him right back down. This is the most I’ve ever seen Wonderboy taken down in a UFC fight. Wonderboy has two minutes to get up.

Muhammad gets into half guard and starts landing some nice elbows. Now Muhammad finds himself in side control and he’s trying to get to the mount. Wonderboy looks completely dejected on the bottom here.

Thirty seconds left and more elbows are landing for Muhammad. This is going to be a huge win for Belal Muhammad. The fight ends and it was a dominant performance for Belal Muhammad.

Belal Muhammad def. Stephen Thompson by Unanimous Decision (30-25, 30-26, 30-26)

UFC Vegas 45 Preview: Stephen Thompson – Belal Muhammad

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Tomorrow night in the co-main event of UFC Vegas 45 is a showdown between top welterweight contenders. Former title challenger Stephen ‘Wonderboy’ Thompson (16-5-1) returns to take on Belal Muhammad (19-3, 1 NC).

The last time we saw Wonderboy was back at UFC 264. That night, he lost a decision to Gilbert Burns. That loss snapped a two-fight winning streak. Had he won that night, he would’ve likely earned a UFC title shot.

However, Burns was able to best him which has caused him to reset. Wonderboy is still near the very top of the welterweight division but he needs to string together another set of wins before setting his eyes on the title.

The first of those wins could come at UFC Vegas 45. However, he has a tough test in Belal Muhammad. Muhammad hasn’t suffered a true loss in the UFC since his decision loss to Geoff Neal back in 2019.

He’s gone 5-0, 1 NC in his last six fights. The last time we saw Muhammad was against Demian Maia back at UFC 263. It was a lackluster fight but Muhammad got the decision win. He’s looking for his biggest UFC win tomorrow night.

UFC Vegas 45 Prediction

A lot of this fight is going to come down to the takedowns. I don’t think anyone believes that Belal Muhammad can win a striking fight with Wonderboy at UFC Vegas 45. If he’s distance striking with Wonderboy, he will lose all three rounds.

Muhammad needs to fight with a lot of pressure and he needs to try and force clinches. Gilbert Burns was able to get Wonderboy down and neutralize him. That game plan will be one that Muhammad needs to follow.

I expect Muhammad to try and make this fight dirty tomorrow night. Expect him to try and force a lot of clinches and shoot for takedowns. However, I don’t think he’s going to be successful enough to get the W.

In the end, I see UFC Vegas 45 being Wonderboy’s night. I just think he’ll be too slick on the feet and I think he’ll score enough points to offset whatever offense Muhammad has.

Prediction: Stephen ‘Wonderboy’ Thompson by Unanimous Decision

UFC books Stephen Thompson – Belal Muhammad

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The UFC has finalized an important matchup in their welterweight division for the final event of 2021. MMA Junkie was the first to report this afternoon that the promotion had finalized a matchup between Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson (16-5-1) and Belal Muhammad (19-3, 1 NC).

The matchup will take place at a UFC Fight Night on December 18th. For Belal Muhammad, he will be making his fourth appearance in 2021. He started the year off by defeated Dhiego Lima in a lopsided fight back at UFC 258.

That win was Muhammad’s fourth straight. He then got a short-notice opportunity against the top ranked Leon Edwards. That fight ended in a No Contest after Muhammad was poked in the eye by Edwards.

After that, we saw Muhammad return at UFC 263 where he defeated legend Demian Maia by decision. Muhammad is ranked ninth in the division and if he’s able to defeat Wonderboy, he will get closer to the top five and closer to UFC title contention.

UFC Fight Night for Wonderboy

Wonderboy Thompson will be making his third appearance inside the octagon when he takes on Belal Muhammad in January. The last time we saw Wonderboy was back at UFC 264 when he took on Gilbert Burns.

Thompson lost that fight, but if he would’ve won, he would’ve likely earned himself a UFC title shot. Now, Wonderboy is looking to reset and get back on track. Prior to the loss to Gilbert Burns, Thompson had won two straight over Vicente Luque and Geoff Neal.

A win over Muhammad would keep Wonderboy established near the top of the UFC’s welterweight division. Wonderboy is one of the few top contenders that champion Kamaru Usman hasn’t fought. With that in mind, Thompson is only a couple of wins away from potentially becoming an attractive option to face Usman.

UFC: Is Wonderboy – Gamebred 2 the fight to make?

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The UFC‘s welterweight division has some of the best and most recognizable fighters in the sport. Two of those fighters who are massive fan favorites are Jorge Masvidal (35-15) and Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson (16-4-1).

Both of these men have been two of the top welterweights in the UFC for a long time. Also, both men have significant fan followings despite having very different personalities. Ariel Helwani awarded Wonderboy with the NMF title that stands for the “Nicest Mofo”.

Meanwhile, the UFC actually created a BMF title that Masvidal won in his fight with Nate Diaz. These two hold two artificial belts that perfectly exemplifies the type of people and fighters they are.

Another thing that brings these two top welterweights together is their history. Masvidal and Thompson fought each other back in 2017 at UFC 217. That night, Wonderboy was able to pick up the unanimous decision victory.

Since then, both men have had success and stumbled inside the octagon. At this point, both men are coming off losses and they are needing opponents. Wonderboy took the time to call out Masvidal yesterday in the most Wonderboy fashion ever.

Is the UFC going to book the rematch?

Stephen Thompson took to Twitter yesterday and mentioned that Masvidal is a different animal now opposed to when he first fought him. With that in mind, he wants the UFC to run things back between the two men.

This is also a fight that Masvidal has stated that he’s wanted to run back. Both men need an opponent and Masvidal has been trying to get booked for the end of the year. This past weekend, Masvidal said he was targeting either December or January for his UFC return.

Personally, I think it’s a fantastic matchup. I know that originally Masvidal wanted the UFC to book him against Leon Edwards. However, it doesn’t appear that Edwards is interested in taking a fight that’s not for the welterweight title.

With that fight off the table, Masvidal needs an opponent and Wonderboy fits the bill. At this time, there’s no word on if the promotion is leaning in this direction, but I certainly wouldn’t be surprised to see this one booked.

What’s next for Michael Chiesa after UFC 265?

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One of the more highly anticipated fights at UFC 265 was the welterweight contest between Michael Chiesa (18-5) and Vicente Luque (20-8-1). Both men were looking to make the jump into title contention with a win.

Michael Chiesa had struggled for years to make the UFC‘s lightweight limit of 155 pounds. Eventually, Chiesa decided to scrap fighting at 155 and moved up to the welterweight division.

That decision has really paid off for Chiesa. Chiesa started out a perfect 4-0 in the welterweight division which included a five-round win over Neil Magny. Those four straight wins put him in there with Vicente Luque.

At UFC 265, the fight started out extremely well for Chiesa. Chiesa actually was able to land a couple of really good combinations on the feet. However, after Luque buckled his leg with a vicious kick, Chiesa decided to take the fight to the ground.

Chiesa had no troubles taking down Luque. Once they were on the ground, Chiesa was able to get the back of Luque and he started working on a submission. He almost had a rear-naked choke in and after the fight, Luque said the choke was about 80% in.

However, Luque battled through and they ended up in a scramble. Once there, Chiesa left his neck exposed and Luque locked in a d’arce choke. Chiesa fought it, but ultimately tapped and suffered defeat at UFC 265.

What’s next after UFC 265?

This is a really hard loss for Chiesa to swallow. It’s a difficult loss because he had the win right there for the taking and just couldn’t finish the submission. Then leaving his neck exposed ended the fight.

After suffering his first loss in the UFC’s welterweight division, what should be next for Chiesa? Well, Chiesa isn’t going to drop far especially considering him and Luque are both top six welterweights.

I believe the perfect next opponent for Michael Chiesa is Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson (16-5-1). Wonderboy was just in a similar position as Chiesa fighting Luque’s best friend and training partner Gilbert Burns.

Like Chiesa, Thompson fell short, but he’s still in the top six of the UFC’s welterweight division. With both being in such a similar position, it just makes sense to put them together in a fight.

After suffering a setback at UFC 264, what’s next for Wonderboy Thompson?

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This past Saturday in the co-main event of UFC 264, we saw a pivotal matchup in the welterweight division. Two former title challengers battled it out as Gilbert Burns (20-4) took on Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson (16-5-1).

For Wonderboy, this was the first time the UFC was giving him an opponent ranked above him since his title fights with Tyron Woodley. Over the last couple of years, Thompson has had to play the gatekeeper role at 170 pounds.

Wonderboy was being looked at as one of the guys who could potentially give Kamaru Usman problems. Thompson’s unique style and movement make him a tough puzzle for anyone in the UFC‘s welterweight division.

The big question going into this fight would be whether or not Burns could take Wonderboy down. In the first round, Burns was able to. However, in the second round, Wonderboy kept it standing and controlled the range.

Heading into the final round, all three judges at UFC 264 had it even. Wonderboy rocked Burns early and was dominating the standup. However, Burns got the fight to the mat and controlled Wonderboy for the entire second half which gave him the decision win.

What’s next after UFC 264?

This was a really tough loss for Wonderboy Thompson. The fight was right there for him if he could have just stayed on his feet in the third round at UFC 264. The fight looked like it was trending in the right direction before the final takedown.

Now, Wonderboy goes back to the drawing board. It is worth noting that I don’t believe Wonderboy really loses a lot of ground after Saturday night. In fact, in the updated UFC rankings, Wonderboy is still ranked fourth in the division.

To me, the 38 year old still has plenty in the tank and I could still see him getting one more crack at the title in the future under the right circumstances. So, where does he go from here. Well, one potential option would be a rematch with Jorge Masvidal (35-15).

Wonderboy defeated Masvidal and Gamebred has long talked about them fighting again. However, I think the UFC has other plans for Masvidal. If I’m going to pick out a guy who I think is the most realistic and a perfect opponent, I’m going to say Neil Magny (25-8).

Magny has won four out of five and he’s currently ranked eight in the division. He needs a top opponent and Wonderboy is going to need a dance partner. Pair the two up and the winner is right in the mix.

After bouncing back at UFC 264, what’s next for Gilbert Burns?

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This past Saturday in the co-main event of UFC 264 we saw a crucial matchup in the welterweight division. Former title challengers went head-to-head as Gilbert Burns (20-4) took on Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson (16-5-1).

A big question going into UFC 264 is would Gilbert Burns be able to take down Wonderboy. Wonderboy’s striking and unique style was set to give Burns problems on the feet and I figured if the fight stayed at range, Wonderboy would pick up the win.

When the fight was at range, that’s exactly what happened. Wonderboy got the better of the striking, however, he didn’t win the fight. Gilbert Burns did a fantastic job of using his wrestling in the first and third rounds.

While Wonderboy had his moments, Burns was able to take Wonderboy down and hold him there at UFC 264. Burns became the first man to really control Wonderboy in the manner that he did which was incredibly impressive.

There were a lot of boos at UFC 264 and the fight certainly wasn’t sexy for the fans, but it was a big moment for Burns. Burns bounced back from his failed attempt to capture the title and solved one of the most difficult puzzles in the welterweight division.

What’s next after UFC 264?

After the fight was over, Burns took to the microphone to make a callout. There were three names on the mind of Gilbert Burns after his victory on Saturday night. Those three names were Jorge Masvidal (35-15), Nate Diaz (20-13), and Leon Edwards (19-3, 1 NC).

I think it’s a safe assumption that we can throw out Nate Diaz as an option here. With that, I think we’re looking at the UFC potentially booking Burns against either Masvidal or Leon Edwards.

With Burns coming off of a win, it would make the most sense to have him fight Leon Edwards and perhaps pair Wonderboy with Masvidal. However, what could throw a wrench into everything is if the UFC books Masvidal against Leon Edwards which has been discussed internally.

If the promotion goes in that direction, we would then look at the Michael Chiesa (18-4) – Vicente Luque (20-7-1) fight which takes place next month. Luque and Burns are best friends and training partners. If Chiesa wins next month, perhaps Burns takes on Chiesa in a title eliminator. Many options currently out there for Durinho.

Gilbert Burns uses takedowns to defeat Wonderboy at UFC 264

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In the co-main event of UFC 264, we saw a pivotal matchup between top welterweight contenders. Former title challengers Gilbert Burns (19-4) and Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson (16-4-1) went head-to-head as both looked to get another crack at the welterweight strap.

UFC 264 was the first time we’ve seen Gilbert Burns since his failed attempt to capture the title back in February. After a good start, Burns faded and he was ultimately stopped by Kamaru Usman in the third round of their title fight.

That was the first time that Burns had lost at 170 pounds. Prior to that, Burns looked like a buzzsaw in the UFC‘s welterweight division. Burns possesses great speed and power on the feet to go along with his world class jiu jitsu.

Since late 2019, Stephen Thompson has played the role of gatekeeper in the UFC‘s welterweight division. First it was Vicente Luque and then he fought Geoff Neal in December.

Both of those guys looked to be the rising contenders, but Thompson dominated them both. The UFC‘s “NMF” was looking to beat Burns tonight to secure his third shot at the welterweight title.

UFC 264 Recap

Round 1

The UFC 264 co-main event started with a touch of the gloves. Burns takes the center as Wonderboy starts with his wide stance from the outside. Low kick from Wonderboy starts the striking in the opening minute.

Burns tries a blitz, but nothing lands. Wonderboy presses back forward and Burns shoots in for a takedown. Burns gets deep on the attempt, but Wonderboy is defending well. Wonderboy using the fence and a wide base to keep the fight standing.

Good knee to the thigh for Gilbert Burns. Nothing much happening here as the crowd is becoming restless. Burns tries for another double, but Wonderboy keeps it up. However, Burns switches to a single and gets Wonderboy down to the ground.

Burns settles into halfguard as Wonderboy tries to work his way back to the fence. Wonderboy posts against the fence as he’s trying to get up, but Burns is holding strong. Great ground defense from Wonderboy who gets to a knee. Big shots from Gilbert Burns and Wonderboy is up against the fence.

Burns holds Wonderboy against the fence as the crowd starts booing again. They separate and Wonderboy seems to rock Burns at the buzzer. Overall not a ton here in the first round, but it’s 1-0 Burns at UFC 264.

Round 2

Entering the second round at UFC 264 and both fighters look fresh. They touch to start the second and Wonderboy opens with a jab and leg kick. Burns tries for a headkick, but he’s way out of range.

Spinning kick from Wonderboy just misses. A blitz from Wonderboy and he follows it with a stiff jab. Nasty body kick lands for Wonderboy. Side kick from Wonderboy and Burns circles on the outside.

Another side kick from Wonderboy who’s opening up here in the second round. Burns tries to press forward, but he’s so out of range that nothing comes close to landing. Good body kick from Wonderboy lands.

Wonderboy presses forward with a headkick. Spinning headkick lands for Wonderboy and Burns immediately tries to get it back. Tons of pressure from Burns who lands a right hand. Wonderboy re-establishes the range and he lands a good leg kick. 1-2 lands for Wonderboy.

Burns tries for a takedown, but Wonderboy shrugs him off. Wonderboy lands off the break and Burns looks a little frustrated. Burns gets a takedown just at the end of the round and lands some good shots. Close round, but I lean Wonderboy which would make it 1-1 at UFC 264.

Round 3

Heading into the final round at UFC 264 and I think the fight is even, but Burns could be up 2-0. They touch gloves to start the final round and Wonderboy takes the center. Burns is changing levels as he evades a headkick from Wonderboy.

Wonderboy steps forward with a 1-2 that just misses. Massive right hand lands for Wonderboy and Wonderboy lands a headkick. Wonderboy stalking Burns here in the third and it appears that he’s feeling the urgency.

Spinning back kick from Wonderboy drops Burns. Burns fires back and tries desperately to take Wonderboy down. Wonderboy gets backed up to the fence as the crowd erupts in boos. Wonderboy defending well here.

Burns is very heavy on the pressure and he slams Wonderboy to the ground. The crowd begins to boo as Burns just controls Wonderboy from side-control. Burns lands a few shots from the side, but nothing massive.

Wonderboy trying desperately to get to his feet, but nothing is happening. Burns is going to ride out this win and get back on track.

Gilbert Burns def. Stephen Thompson by Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)

UFC 264 Preview: Gilbert Burns – Stephen Thompson

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Tomorrow night in the co-main event of UFC 264, we will see a pivotal matchup between top welterweight contenders. Former title challengers Gilbert Burns (19-4) and Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson (16-4-1) will go head-to-head as both look to get another crack at the welterweight strap.

UFC 264 will be the first time we’ve seen Gilbert Burns since his failed attempt to capture the title back in February. After a good start, Burns faded and he was ultimately stopped by Kamaru Usman in the third round of their title fight.

That was the first time that Burns had lost at 170 pounds. Prior to that, Burns looked like a buzzsaw in the UFC‘s welterweight division. Burns possesses great speed and power on the feet to go along with his world class jiu jitsu.

He’s going to need every tool he has tomorrow night when he takes on Wonderboy. Since late 2019, Stephen Thompson has played the role of gatekeeper in the UFC‘s welterweight division. First it was Vicente Luque and then he fought Geoff Neal in December.

Both of those guys looked to be the rising contenders, but Thompson dominated them both. The UFC‘s “NMF” will look to defeat Gilbert Burns tomorrow as he will try to secure his third shot at the welterweight title.

UFC 264 Prediction

Heading into UFC 264, Gilbert Burns is very familiar with Wonderboy Thompson. Burns was in the corner of his best friend, Vicente Luque, the night that Luque lost to Thompson. This is a fight that Burns definitely wants to get back for his friend and his team.

That said, it’s not going to be easy. Burns is going to have the speed and power advantage tomorrow night. He’s also going to have a massive advantage on the ground if the fight ever ends up there.

However, I’m not sure it will. I don’t know if Burns has the wrestling ability to get Wonderboy down at UFC 264. I’m betting that he likely won’t and for that reason, I think we are going to primarily see a standup fight.

With both men standing, I really like Wonderboy. When it comes to technique and controlling distance, it doesn’t get much better than Wonderboy. In reality, I’m expecting a very similar fight as the Vicente Luque fight.

You’re going to see Wonderboy extremely lose out there and I think he’s going to have a field day with counter straights. Burns will land his shots, but I see Thompson picking up his third consecutive win at UFC 264.

Prediction: Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson by Unanimous Decision