Stephen Thompson has officially ended years of speculation, confirming that his November 14 matchup against Charles Radtke at UFC 334 will be his final professional fight. Speaking to Ozoon, the 43-year-old “Wonderboy” emphasized the significance of the venue, stating, “It’s my last one. What better place to have it than Madison Square Garden, New York City?” This announcement solidifies a long-standing hint that Thompson had one remaining obligation on his UFC contract, which he intends to fulfill with a high-profile exit in the sport’s most iconic arena.
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The decision to retire is deeply personal, driven by Thompson’s new role as a father to a baby girl born in September. While Thompson insists his body feels “great” and that he physically could continue competing, he acknowledges that the rigorous demands of being a top-tier fighter conflict with his desire to be present for his daughter. Adopting the moniker “Wonderdad,” Thompson noted that this new chapter has fundamentally shifted his mindset, though he left the door slightly ajar, adding, “You might see me again” as his daughter grows older.
Thompson’s career trajectory has seen a sharp decline in recent years, with the veteran dropping six of his last seven bouts. However, his legacy remains intact as one of the premier fighters in UFC history. His seven-fight winning streak between May 2013 and June 2016 propelled him to a title challenge at UFC 205 in November 2016, establishing him as a dominant force at 170 pounds. As he steps into the octagon one last time, Thompson aims to close his career on a high note, cementing his status as a fan favorite who defined an era of welterweight excellence before transitioning to family life.
Source: Yahoo Sports
