In the high-stakes, high-impact world of mixed martial arts, careers are often fleeting commodities. Yet, some athletes defy the conventional timeline, pushing their physical and mental boundaries long past the point where many hang up their gloves. Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson is one such anomaly. At 42 years young (or old, depending on your perspective), the popular welterweight stands at a pivotal juncture, with the final two fights of his current UFC contract looming large.
Thompson is set to make his 2024 return this Saturday, stepping into the octagon in the co-main event of UFC Nashville against the dangerous Gabriel Bonfim. For those accustomed to seeing “Wonderboy” matched against division stalwarts and former champions, the pairing with a rising contender might seem unusual. However, Thompson, having been on both sides of that dynamic throughout his career, understands the landscape. He`s fresh off a stoppage loss to Joaquin Buckley last October, a fight against another younger, powerful contender who has since gone on to face former champion Vicente Luque.
With his contract drawing to a close, the question of “what`s next?” is naturally at the forefront of Thompson`s mind. Retirement is an obvious possibility, but it`s not the only one. “I’ve got two fights left,” Thompson stated, outlining the dependency of his future decision on the outcomes. Win decisively, and the journey might continue. Should things not go according to plan, there`s a pragmatic alternative already in motion.
Thompson has been increasingly involved in analyst work for the UFC. He acknowledges the stark contrast: “It beats getting punched and kicked in the face,” he noted with characteristic understatement, “but you’re still part of the game.” This path offers a way to remain deeply connected to the sport without absorbing the physical toll. Yet, the competitive fire clearly still burns.
“I’m in this game to keep pushing myself,” he asserted. “I’m 42 years old, the oldest guy in the UFC. I want to continue to keep pushing forward to try to see how good I can get, keep evolving, keep getting better.” His recent opponents – Buckley, Shavkat Rakhmonov, Gilbert Burns, Belal Muhammad – are a testament to his continued willingness to test himself against the absolute best, often the very fighters climbing the ranks he once ascended. His remarkable consistency, remaining in the top 5 or 10 since 2013 or 2014 and fighting for the title twice against Tyron Woodley, is a rare feat in such a demanding division.
Entering his 22nd UFC bout, Thompson reflects on the evolution of his mindset. His journey, beginning in 2012, has spanned over a decade. The raw, unadulterated hunger of his early years has been tempered by experience and wisdom. “When you’re in your early career, it’s like, I’m just hungry,” he explained. “Hungry for everything… for the title.” Now, having “been there, done that,” the approach shifts. He feels physically capable, perhaps even better than before, but with a more strategic, measured perspective on stepping into the octagon. This blend of veteran savvy and physical upkeep makes him comfortable with his current position, embracing the “crossroads” rather than fearing it.
His opponent, Gabriel Bonfim, represents the youthful aggression Thompson often faced on his own ascent. Bonfim boasts a 4-1 UFC record, riding a two-fight win streak, including a technical submission victory over Khaos Williams. Thompson recognizes Bonfim`s forward-pressing, high-pressure style.
“He comes out guns blazing,” Thompson observed, identifying a key strategic element Bonfim uses to overwhelm opponents. Many fighters, feeling pressured, resort to wrestling, which plays directly into Bonfim`s strengths – excellent takedown defense combined with dangerous submission skills, particularly D`arces and guillotine chokes with his long limbs. Thompson also anticipates Bonfim`s likely attempt to back him against the fence, a position Thompson is familiar with and comfortable fighting from, having spent significant career time there. He acknowledges Bonfim`s intelligence and good coaching, respecting the challenge ahead.
While the decision on his future remains fluid, Thompson has entertained thoughts about how he might want to conclude his fighting career, should these next two fights mark his final appearances. The ultimate opponent would naturally be the champion, but he also envisions a particular type of swansong.
“If I want to go out,” he mused, “I want it to be a striking extravaganza.” He cited Carlos Prates as an example of a potential opponent for such a finale – two fighters willing to stand and trade, prioritizing entertainment for the fans. “Both guys standing up, banging it out, not looking for the takedown… You go out on your shield.” It`s a fitting picture for a fighter known for his unique karate-based striking style and numerous exciting performances.
Stephen Thompson enters UFC Nashville not just for another fight, but for a bout that carries the weight of potential finality. He`s a veteran assessing his options, still driven to compete and evolve, but with a clear view of life beyond active competition. Whether these next two fights pave the way for a continued run or mark the graceful transition to a new role, “Wonderboy” remains a compelling figure in the sport, navigating his final chapters with the same thoughtful approach he applies inside the cage.
