Mixed martial arts (MMA) fans may have to put their dreams of seeing Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson go head-to-head with Israel Adesanya on hold. The welterweight superstar recently gave a brutally honest opinion in an interview. It was on a potential bout with the middleweight champion, and it wasn’t exactly what fans wanted to hear.
Thompson is recognized for his great control with distance, deadly kicking force, and odd timing. He conceded that the size disparity would be difficult to overcome. Even though a showdown with Adesanya would be fun to watch.
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Stephen Thompson Rejects the Challenge of Israel Adesanya Due to Size Disadvantage
Thompson’s concern is understandable as someone who typically finds success in the cage when going up against fellow strikers. “I’m not a big welterweight.” I probably walk around 195 at my heaviest. These guys are walking around [at] like 220… I’ve stood beside ‘Stylebender.” I mean, he’s a good head taller than me and [has] crazy reach. I think it would be fun to train with him, maybe get a sparring match, but to fight that guy? I don’t know, man… Y’all crazy; I don’t wanna fight that guy. Are you kidding me? That would be fun, though.
While Thompson’s dream is to one day become a UFC champion, he’s focused on his upcoming fight against Michel Pereira at UFC 289 on June 10. After a string of disappointing performances, Thompson is climbing the standings and aiming to make it two straight victories.
Adesanya’s Next Opponent: Who Will Face ‘The Last Stylebender’?
Israel Adesanya is not wasting any time getting back into the ring after his historic knockout of Alex Pereira in his previous performance. Everyone wonders who will be his next opponent as he continues to rule the middleweight category. One possible matchup is the bout with surging Dricus du Plessis, whom Adesanya openly expressed interest in fighting after a series of comments were shared back and forth.
Another option for the choice of fans is a move up to light heavyweight to try and win the UFC championship a second time. As Adesanya continues to make waves in the MMA world, fans eagerly await news of his next fight. Whether it’s against du Plessis or a move up in weight class, one thing is for sure – Adesanya will continue to be a force to be reckoned with in the octagon.
