Retrospective: Stephen "Wonderboy" Thompson - Full Episode

fightnetwork.com/ - Stephen "Wonderboy" Thompson looks back on beginning his martial arts career at an early age, being in a martial arts family and speaks on his bouts in the UFC against Dan Stittgen, Robert Whittaker, Patrick Cote, Jake Ellenberger and Johny Hendricks in this episode of Retrospective.
Watch new episodes of Retrospective Wednesdays at 7 p.m. ET on Fight Network.
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[@jerl7320]

This is what GSP was talking about, a true martial artist: humble, respectful, deadly.

[@milanbabic92]

One of the rare fighters that got their face and ears well preserved.

[@scotoftheanarchic.7903]

AFractionOfInfinity exactly my friend......you can't hit what you can't see !!

[@kukuricapica]

Silva didn't have cauliflower ear either I think this man is closest thing to Anderson Silva we got right now.

[@iphone202020220]

That only happens during heavy Jiu Jitsu or wrestling. The skin tears off the thin bone we have in our ear and it fills with blood. If you don't have it drained in time the blood hardens and you get clot ears.

[@barnabywylde2224]

yeah, him and Sage Northcutt look more like Mighty Morphin Power Ranger cast members than fighters. ( Kind of the anti-Randy Coutures )

[@robin212212]

Barnaby Wylde yeah I think karate and kB guys emphasize speed more than brute strength that's why they r mostly lean

[@jimmydurmody2490]

He is like an hero from 90s karate flick, like a prefectly good boy that punishes some bad guys, gaining power from his good character. The fact that he is real is awsome.

[@solitarywolf9030]

your accuracy is on point sir

[@brieannabernier399]

He's like goku

[@gsmacc76]

That perfectly explains this guy. I’m very impressed.

[@weakbrainthrombosis]

Your comment is one of the coolest things I’ve read on the internet. I like the way you view the world.

[@Saleigh]

He is a Goodman you see it and it’s Genuine

[@koenigsegg1237456789]

such a class act...

[@AcidDvl]

Hey buddy, I've been in a coma for 6 years and just woke up 2 weeks ago, can you give me directions to the nearest Mexican restaurant, please? It's urgent.

[@emceesupremejustice]

+AcidDvl ...what the fuck lmao

[@Brazackp1]

Indeed! A great role model

[@followufollowme]

New GSP!! Soon to simply be Wonderboy.

[@koenigsegg1237456789]

wow!!! what a match and what heart

[@BumpsINFofficial]

This is someone my kids can look up to! Rare breed

[@THEARCHITECT801]

ONE HUNDRED PERCENT BRO ✊🏾

[@joselimon5126]

Amen

[@MartinRodriguez-qo6is]

Wonderboy is my favorite fighter

[@Joe-ss9cr]

NO he's not.

[@brandonfeng3742]

stop it.

[@josiahd2791]

What about TJ Dillashaw

[@TheClax123]

Lol I feel bad for you now.

[@ELV547]

What a great interview. Stephen is a true champion, humble, respectful and hardworking.

[@ericmathews5438]

This one was really good and so is the Rory MacDonald episode

[@clamchowder622]

And can still beat the s#!t out of you

[@myralittle387]

When he fought Tyron Woodley, he actually helped him up between rounds after getting beat pretty bad, is the time he solidified his true class and respect for his opponents no matter who it is. For that, hes a champion for life that doesnt need a shiny belt to be so..

[@jerroldkeyser5187]

But he does have the NMF belt!

[@yanyanzhang5813]

@@jerroldkeyser5187 he’s also 50-0 in kickboxing.

[@cockboy12]

One of the most deserving guys in the entire game. Good luck.

[@hollyholm4481]

Future Champ. Period.

[@FrankNStein-wk4oj]

Nah dude, he is a man. Men don't get periods.

[@hrvojebabic7525]

Yeah I like Tyron but his skills are non conparable to WB-s

[@lowlowseesee]

i love wonderboy and Tyron but as long as Tyron holds that belt the division is fucked. his style and size are too much. darren till might be able to stop him since they both weight 205 in the cage. plus Till is even longer than thompson i think

[@Kevin-fr2zx]

Holly Holm Nah, don’t see him being a future champ unless RDA beats Woodley and he beats RDA but even then he’d lose the belt quickly to Darren Till.

[@markmirabella4066]

He's going to be one of the most well respected champions in MMA history. Right up there with GSP. Such a classy and likable guy.

[@awaister]

GSP, Wonderboy and Carlos Condit three guys who are world class fighters and are a class act outside of the ring

[@pjakk84]

Dont forget Cerrone, he have so much respect for his opponents

[@johncortez9889]

@@pjakk84 chrome got his ass beat by Conor mrgregor, he sucks

[@edwardcurrall7973]

He’s never been a champ 😢

[@markmirabella4066]

@@edwardcurrall7973 so unfortunate. I missed the mark on this.

[@DarkAK2]

nicest fighter ever

[@AlexGarwood]

DarkAnti sage northcutt takes that title

[@adb8003]

GSP! GSP!

[@juanmaxd4617]

NMF

[@HowlinWilf13]

Yeah, he's a super nice guy. Him and Bas Rutten, both of them all-round beautiful human beings.

[@MrRJC1991]

Doesn't remember anything, but remembers everything.

[@AXharoth]

aaaaaahahahahha

[@barnabywylde2224]

well, he said he did watch it on video later

[@MrRJC1991]

He was talking as he was thinking at the time, Especially during the Hendricks' fight.

[@MrRJC1991]

***** Here we go with the dumb shit.

[@Guy-cs8yj]

How can you NOT love this guy? He is a great fighter, and a great person.

[@breakdancerQ]

It's so nice to also have a guy as classy and humble as him between all the trashtalkers

[@mickyc4003]

In this age of trash talking, superficial, materialistic brats its so refreshing to see a true modern day samurai: respectful, humble and skilled! Win or lose he has class and my respect.

[@kyokushinbul]

i got man crush on wonderboy

[@brandonm1716]

don't we all?

[@domagoj4843]

No Salty we dont

[@wocmedianaz6821]

lol...

[@urameshisama6579]

I love that alien ass face of his, its truly a beautiful thing

[@In-decay]

Same. Sucks I might be gay for him. No homo

[@therooffairy5979]

How good is this bloke to listen to...what a fuckin' dude.

[@haashambaz3430]

Matt Brown said after their fight he was out twice on the feet, great fight

[@PheseantNetsuke]

He doesn't even need to say it, those shots looked deadly, brown just us made of something else and is always ready to go to the depths of hell and back

[@cliffj1740]

Stephen said exactly what I thought about his fight with Hendricks... when I watched the fight, I was like why did Hendricks go down? I guess everyone has an expiry date and Hendricks' time was up...he just didn't want to be there.

[@fjb802]

this guy is my favorite mma fighter.. Hes an all around good dude too. I'd be honored to hav my kids taught by Wonder Boy Thompson.. You can be certain his father his stand up guy too and a great fighter himself. Great fighter, also very respectful and respected human being.. #AND NEW!!!

[@guillesuek2878]

I coul

[@guillesuek2878]

I've couldn't lose to a better person,hope you become a ufc champion!!good luck.

[@myralittle387]

Haha i love how you added and #NEW cuz hes such a great guy and fighter, he doesn't need a shiny belt to be champ hes a champion of life FOR LIFE

[@seaglider844]

A very truthful interview...admitting to being nervous and questioning himself and why he does this crazy sport. You have to be confident to say these things.....and it shows in his fights.....he's a talented confident fighter. Got to like him!

[@flump9578]

Im kinda glad Rory is at bellator, its so hard to be a fan of Rory, Lawler, Wonderboy and Cerrone when they are all fighting each other for number 1

[@redeemedforgivenfree349]

Flump so true...

[@MartinRodriguez-qo6is]

Flump yea hope rory announces a fight soon love to see other mma promotions growing and fighters getting good pay

[@zachthompson6021]

Such an accurate statement. The UFC has really has some of the most loved MMA talent in the world. It is hard to find the guys they have.

[@wmarcoux9]

I want Rory to win a couple straps , get more mature as a fighter then come hungry again for the UFC strap.

[@redeemedforgivenfree349]

William Marcoux​ that would be awesome

[@billyblanco89]

There's a lot of things I like about Thompson. His skillset and his attitude show his professionalism in and out of the cage. I think even though he's still improving his ground game and wrestling, he is a vary diverse fighter. Not just a one trick pony. On top of that, this guy is fully dedicated to this life, 100%. He doesn't have kids to worry about, wife, partying, etc. That to me gives him an edge over many other top fighters that have other things to hinder them in training and come fight night. The next WW champion.

[@DrEvil-os9dc]

Belt or no belt, Wonderboy is legit one of the best welterweight fighters of all time. Hope he can find a path to the belt. He deserves the recognition and money. True prize fighter. The real WW champ

[@TheGerbsteve]

I knew I liked this guy for not only his fighting style.. Stephen has to be one of the most humble, inspiring guys that I’ve heard in the UFC!

[@vfjfdalaj]

I'm a fan of so many welterweights that it's hard for me to root for anyone -_-

[@deadsi]

True but usually when it gets going you end up wanting one guy to win more

[@vfjfdalaj]

Tom H yeah that's true when the fight starts I'll have a favorite lol

[@sergealainyameogo6275]

A very beautiful list. It deserve a very quick like!!!

[@phillipfenn2799]

Fly Pelican ahh shut up, and stay in your lane.

[@enri447]

Great division

[@patrickconnors4602]

he's a great fighter. I am a black belt in karate, and had a very successful amateur boxing career so I love to appreciate other fighters' skills. im only going at jujitsu the last 2 years but I love that too. wonderboys technical ability and skills are almost flawless. I would love to have a training session with him, or his father / team.

[@dl7694]

paddy connors I don't know if Ray still teaches at Upstate in Simpsonville but his gym is on point. Great people.

[@marcusmccurley7686]

Just an amazing human being. Period.

[@karmacloud99]

One word he says "RESPECT" ... a role model and an awesome fighter

[@flashhd8785]

true humble martial artist like silva and machida.

[@commentconnoisseur1001]

Who both have been busted for steroids?

[@mohammedabusufiyan8934]

Silva and humility shouldn't be in the same sentence man

[@frogman0028]

This guy is incredibly likeable and his fight IQ is amazing too, hope he wins on the night of 205.

[@adamwaterman1229]

He's the nicest bad ass ever.

[@Brad_Pittstop]

Humble in victory, gracious in defeat = wonderboy.

[@willywatcher2479]

Fantastic series! 'Next thing you know your 57-0' 😂

[@ryandacus]

What a class act Stephen Thompson is for everyone that looks up to him. Growing up in Simpsonville myself knowing Stephen as a kid even then he had something special! I don’t think there could be a more humble, down-to-earth, and deserving person of the success he has worked hard to achieve! I know there are many proud people here in Simpsonville, SC knowing that such class act like Stephen is out there to represent us to the world! Stephen it is truly amazing to see what you have been able to achieve and how bright the future is for you! What a great role model you are for all the kids out there that look up to you! Keep kicking butt man!!

[@John2corner]

He represents the true definition of being a great martial artist.

[@pauliehatch3958]

What a humble guy and a fantastic fighter!

[@jackthomas1868]

Class act! THOMPSON the name of a champion regardless of the belt this young man is a massive credit to MMA and combat sports in general! Best of luck Steve,calm,cool,and composed as any real champion should be!

[@mihailomikel3341]

Such a humble individual and a true example to the younger ones. Get your belt Champ!

[@bassfishingwiththeantichri2921]

"Class" means "of the highest quality" or "best of its kind". Stephan Thompson is just that.

[@josephhui1986]

He's like the Tom Brady of MMA, in terms of personality, such a clean and class act.

[@getsmart3701]

One of the coolest martial artists in the world. I always got time to hear what Wonderboy has to say. Great video guys.

[@Dhan911]

Imagine how proud his Dad is. Wish I could do the same with mine T_T

[@sociologie4507]

Im back watching UFC because of this guy! What a Martial Artist.

[@GabrielOrtizUAP]

True martial artist, humble his entire life, now so close to becoming the next champ :)

[@Em-im1yz]

Hes my favourite. So much respect for this mans skill and talent .

[@brandonburdette1298]

Coming live from Simpsonville S.C. Wonderboy really is who you think he is. Real Class Act , True Future Champ. Went to Hillcrest High with him and had classes with him. I remember one time him telling me why his shins were so bruised, he said his dad Ray would make him beat them with a wooden stick or bat. Man at that time I was like this Kid is crazy! Wow... is what I think now.

[@larissacastellanos4831]

Very respectful, technical, & wants to do good things with his platform.

[@laleamfakzualchhangte6177]

Stephen" the honest" thompson, exactly what i wanna hear as a fan, honesty, i really admire this dude!!!

[@silentassassin1399]

Hendricks went 5 hard rounds twice with GSP and Robbie. The guy is a beast and WOnderboy KO'd him in the 1st round. Any other fighter will beat his chest up if they did that as Conor did with Aldo.. But this guy downplayed it. He is probably one of the most humble guys in UFC right now.

[@ELDERGODDD]

MAD RESPECT!

[@domonicdecoco2410]

Ah man. Gsp vs Wonderboy would be so technically beautiful.

[@eross508572]

Incredibly likable guy, and so talented!

[@cachephish9695]

I remember watching some of his first kick boxing fights back in the day. Dude has always been a beast. I believe he'll be fighting well past his prime.

[@blessedsaint5914]

Man Wonderboy is so nice, he can make an awesome preacher as well, he has the look, the talent, and he does believe in God, but I hope he is being protected at whatever task he does.. Great guy..

[@new2POOL208]

Michael Mascarenhas god helps people beat up other people. does God have a favorite mma fighter?

[@CookedOnions]

@@new2POOL208 God is a Jon Jones fan

[@ankityadav6447]

@@CookedOnions god does coke with jon jones

[@behdabra]

He will be the ufc welterweight champion sooner or later

[@JakeBM4]

Awesome video guys

[@JakeBM4]

Joseph Conners no I haven't seen it bro, will check it out

[@supernaturalswampaids8083]

You guys are Canadian, huh? ;) lol

[@stevemymind3947]

Great bloke with a great attitude

[@jaimeparra8865]

Even the best guys have losses. Love of the sport win or lose. Gotta appreciate that.

[@darfoggy1644]

Great show! Thanks

[@PacsLuv96]

This channel is underrated how come it barely has 100k

[@Grimy_Aaronarr]

I love humble guys like this

[@adami8114]

My oh my how I love these, once again thank you FN!!!

[@d0wnpour]

Awesome video, thanks for uploading this.

[@kickinghorse2405]

Honor Humility Respect Wonderboy is an old-school warrior. Kudos to his elders and his fighting lineage.

[@brittneybronx824]

Stephen Thompson is so amazing this is one of my favourite shows on Fight Network

[@keyboardwarrior5863]

Loved this episode

[@SuperPtd]

Mad respect for this guy. So humble

[@constructivecritique4049]

Wow. The quickness & accuracy of his counters is crazy. Amazing hands.

[@TheMegaPunters]

Very solid video amazing job Fight Network

[@uwcb1]

Fantastic work FN! I'll make sure to seek out more Retrospectives. Thank you.

[@sheikzilla1029]

a true martial artist. pure heart and respect for all things

[@vicentemagana8636]

Keep these Retrospective videos coming. 👍👍👍 Great work Fight Network!

[@YellowPaint100]

Great channel man, you highlight the person that IS a fighter & not just the fighter himself, love it 👍👏

[@matsonx]

he is a such soft spoken guy, with huge balls and heart:) rare today

[@whateveryousay14]

Incredible episode of Retrospective please do more!!!!!

[@Rogersensei93]

this is a great series Fight Network. Keep it going.

[@JeffAllenVlogs]

Wonderboy is so awesome. I would have started martial arts a long time ago if I knew about him sooner. I've never been way into fighting until I saw Wonderboy fight with his karate. His kicks are insane! He is like the modern day Karate kid. I love it!

[@healthyrootsstrongwings538]

Thanks for these awesome portraits of the fighters. Brings a whole new level when you get to see a personal side of them and the fight game. looking forward to more of these!

[@arinkromas]

The most honest, gentleman ufc fighter I've known so far, hats off Mr. Thompson.

[@lhowlett88]

Major respect. Nicest son of a gun I know. God Bless

[@DingDong-nh3mj]

Well done. You got yourself a fan! I’ll be looking you up next time I’m Vegas. Best fighter video in KZbin!

[@elkabomb1]

Thanks!

[@garygwinn4256]

Great fighter. Just enjoy watching him fight a lot.

[@constructivecritique4049]

+ Fight Network Man, this Fight Network Retrospective Series, is cool as hell. This series REALLY NEEDS to be a regular thing. And, very, very well done, too. My favorite combat sports channel, by far. Keep it up!!!

[@Curbsidehustle87]

True owner of the NMF title such a fan I had a long drive to make this video made it bearable! Thanks you’re the man Wonderboy

[@pwnzor81]

You are looking at the UFC welterweight champion come November 12th. He will hold that belt for a while too.

[@DownloadDeX]

Maybe. Never underestimate maia.

[@bananablast2959]

Yeah that's true, if it goes to the ground I don't know if Thompson would be able to get away from a guy like Maia

[@TommyTipex]

Probably wont be able to defend against Maia, but who knows Silva did alright, maybe he can stay away from him and pepper from range.

[@AcidDvl]

This is the forth time I've tried to call my wife. She's working long hours, and we haven't had sex for like 2.5 months, could please point me to a car dealership please?

[@haleyarida7119]

@T White Did you watch the Silva vs Maia fight? It was not good.

[@nudistpriest2988]

Rory and Stephen are my favourite fighters

[@DaMadpenciler]

What a good son his father should be proud to raise a kid to turn out so respectful.

[@romanoonamor7690]

Such a nice guy too. Never seen a UFC fighter answer on Twitter before. Even when I was just mentionning him, he just acknowledges the tweet and respond. Really cool down to earth guy

[@cyrus1469]

Please keep doing these , there great !!!!!

[@theserpent9883]

The utmost respect for this fighter.

[@matthewnichols9198]

You’re great!! I really appreciate your gratitude and humility!! And you’re a kick ass fighter!!👊👊

[@StefanSagdinov]

Please make more episodes of retrospective, they are the best REPLY

[@chrisoconnor3119]

A class act. These are the athletes I love watching. You are awesome Sir

[@danajane6674]

Fantastic show!! Great story. 👏👏👏⭐️⭐️⭐️

[@richardwhalen7447]

I feel like wonderboy is the realist most genuine and humble fighter i have ever seen fight since i have been a fight fan. Thanks brother. you are one of a kind good luck in new york Rhode Island is rooting for you

[@gayanga]

I love this guy, be humble, be strong!

[@brianboucher4248]

Thanks, Stephen... a class-act gentleman.