Stephen Thompson Explains Why He Pulled Out of UFC 291: 'It Was Slap In Face’ | The MMA Hour

[@SPACYtunes]

This interview is the definition of the phrase "never mistake a man's kindness for weakness." He's never giving Pereira that shot ever again and I respect that a ton.

[@sloppyvm7110]

That quote doesn't sit well unless Wonderboy himself demonstrate with action and fight Pereira and win. But that's not the case. Huge L wonderboy huge L

[@elyas4637]

​@@sloppyvm7110poor you

[@doperat9630]

​@@sloppyvm7110that doesn't make sense

[@yoyehh]

​@@sloppyvm7110it is figuratively my dude not physically lol

[@nealthompson8794]

He’s still cooler than you

[@TimeBucks]

Such a great conversation.

[@sabzali6277]

👍

[@fabriciorocchia4516]

Nice

[@sumonKhan-bj2fp]

Nice

[@alikhan-ul6nb]

Nice

[@musafirbillal]

Nice

[@alexstreet2457]

Met wonder boy in Vegas 2 years ago, was eating out with some friends and it was not even an hour after his fight that he lost, we got up to meet him and he talked to us for a half hour took pictures with us and was so damn down to earth, people say he’s nice he’s way beyond that. Dude is such a pure soul, good call looking out for yourself!

[@reekhavoc2932]

He just lost got beat up and you bothered him anyway? 😂😂😂😂😂

[@HiItsMars]

@@reekhavoc2932”he was so nice it almost seemed like he was thirty minutes out from being concussed or something” 😂

[@johnjelinek-g7b]

That's what they say about him, they just don't get more real than this guy . :)

[@justinlast2lastharder749]

How was he out and about not even an hour after a fight? Dude wouldn't even be done with a shower, let alone out of the building and in a completely different location. I could believe everything else, but timeline is fishy...

[@a9029k]

@@justinlast2lastharder749depends if he did the post-fight presser or not and how long it lasted. If he lost then he prob didn’t do interviews. UFC security kicks them out really quickly after their fights. They don’t get to just hang out and watch the other fights etc

[@ziggystardust6969]

Mad respect for him. I think he made the right choice. If you let people know they can break the rules, they probably will.

[@whydopeoplealwayssayuhm]

only time they don't wanna do that is if they're champ, but yes. i agree 100%

[@jericho-tube]

Lol, He is just a scared chicken He won't fight any wrester and then he won't fight any striker also when they missed only 3lb. Such a scared guy

[@ziggystardust6969]

@@jericho-tube you’re free to think that. Kind of a bad take though IMO.

[@Dizzle72]

@@jericho-tubeyou don’t even do mma lol

[@jericho-tube]

​@@Dizzle72Lol, neither Wonderboy. He does only kickboxing 😂

[@HeidiG123]

He is not responsible for Michel’s problem. The terms weren’t met. Good for you, Stephen, for your professionalism throughout your career. We are big fans🤗

[@fishinvaders2289]

Exactly! Well said...if he's suffering from weight cuts and other dudes eating steaks, it's a joke! Entirely not fair. I back his decision 💯

[@booprice5473]

He is responsible for our problem, and that’s not giving us a fight.

[@levoderso7469]

@@booprice5473 Yeah Michel's responsible

[@silenceisgoldn]

I was looking forward to this fight, we all were but to hell with me/us. You need to do what's right for you. I'm always so impressed with Wonder Boy!!

[@madm1k3yy]

Speak for yourself. He should man up and fight

[@nisithshubhankar751]

This man is a true student of Martial Arts, inside and outside the cage. Really embodies that way of life. Standing up for himself in a frustrating situation and still staying civil and calm. Hoping that smile never fades.

[@kanwar23]

Age does teach you that

[@stephboyarthree4394]

@@kanwar23not to everyone, it doesn’t.

[@montadar1]

Well then that means Dana White is still an infant @@kanwar23

[@Brett.1984]

Absolute role model, doesn't get any better. Pay the man

[@jamesyoung5610]

Any mma pro should not have to beg for show money PERIOD

[@planejane7093]

Yes he is the perfect model for what a fighter should be very respectful it's awful to see him get walked on and disrespected this late in his career ........and I'm talking about Dana and the UFC disrespecting this man with no pay after he has helped line Dana's walket

[@brianguerrero9280]

Pay him & give him the NMF at this point

[@planejane7093]

@@jamesyoung5610 that's why they should make more money you know Bobby Greene after beating Ferguson was bragging about how he just won 50,000 I was shocked and even though he was happy ,it was sad for me to hear how happy he was for this tiny little amount of money he was given for this big fight........The winner won 50,000 what did they give Ferguson 10,000 dollars ,no wonder he does not want retire he is desperate for money.

[@adventuregames424]

​@@planejane7093Bobby was talking about bonuses. I guarantee you both of those guys made over 150K for that fight.

[@tydupont8084]

He made such a good point. He’s giving the 15th ranked guy a huge opportunity and he can’t even make weight? He made the right decision for sure

[@jonnielad6402]

Happy to see all the support for this legend deserved 100%

[@tamtri6218]

ok

[@pconwuka]

If it were someone else, would he have gotten this level of support ? For instance if Kevin Holland, Nate Diaz, Tony Ferguson, The Leech, D Rod all refused to fight random opponents because Khamzat Chimaez missed weight ? would they have received the same level of support ? I am genuinely asking

[@DeadGlassEyes]

He did not say a single wrong thing. What a great athlete, what a great human. Love you Wonderboy.

[@05erscharlatan31]

He is scared to take the fight

[@sethdeaver8890]

@@05erscharlatan31dude has fought close to 100 times in his life (as mentioned in this video). Doubt he’s scared

[@ProStormRepair7]

@@05erscharlatan31not a chance.

[@ProStormRepair7]

It’s further complicated in that both fighters have same management team. One of the sides is clearly arguing in bad faith.

[@seegee9]

​@@05erscharlatan31he literally makes his living fighting trained killers you doofus

[@alexp3997]

The fact that this is wonderboy when he’s angry just shows how nice he is and good of a dude he is, you can tell he was heartbroken about this situation.

[@Kpictures_NYC]

Agreed.

[@Darrel219]

Watching wonderboy for so long… he wanted to fight. But rules are rules & terms are terms

[@MrNuts70]

I know! He is ACTUALLY angry right now! Wow what a nice dude!

[@trayyoutube]

They need to give him his money 😡😡😡😡😡

[@significantstrike-nd8cs]

100% with Thomson on this. Diego Sanchez threatened Pereira with the same thing, said he would not fight if Pereira missed even by an ounce and that he would have to learn the hard way if he wants to be a welterweight. I would be all for more fighters declining to fight if their opponent misses weight. Unfortunately most fighters are not in a place where they can afford to not take a fight. Miss weight NO fight! Cut the weight or Move up, simple as that. Furthermore, we all know they fudge the actual weight when they use those balance beam scales so i bet Pereira was really more like 6-7lbs over but they just said 4 hoping they would keep the fight together. I really do hope more fighters opt to turn down fights then maybe people will start to fight in a proper weight class.

[@Cups-wk3hj]

UFC should pay the ones that make the weight. They've done there part. They would soon get serious about it if not making weight costs the company they work for money.

[@yumuddah8735]

​@@Cups-wk3hjgsp had that stuff written in his contracts. Its not new.

[@jamesrosales89]

Pay this man ! Full respect to him. Not cutting that last 3 pounds has a HUGE impact on the body and brain.

[@human1821]

Don't go chasing waterfalls... Wonderboy is actually a Russian plant it's all chemtrails

[@tac328]

Especially the last 3

[@pilids3514]

Have you ever cut weight?

[@jamesrosales89]

@@pilids3514 ive fasted on water only for 23 days, youtube ‘tyler tolman 22 day waterfast’ you’ll see me there on day 22 water only.

[@Hashb4ron]

Try fasting without water lmao

[@SM_K1]

Even when he’s pissed he’s still a class act👏 This guy is a true pioneer of the sport at 170

[@Griffdogg169]

Once you hear him lay out his point of view his decision makes all the sense in the world. Glad he got to share this it was extremely insightful. The precedent he's setting paves the way forward for all the true martial artists. Hope Dana listens & makes resolving this a priority.

[@bryanmayes9234]

Exactly

[@zzconmanzz1]

Lol dana having the best interest of his fighters?

[@vantruongthi9105]

ok

[@Griffdogg169]

​@@vantruongthi9105 Is that all you're bringing to the table, bud?

[@drunkenidaho3568]

Stopping cutting the day before is 100% cheating. He just wanted to come in heavy. Fighters who don't make weight win more often than they lose.

[@JD-bx7ob]

Thats just not true lol, fighters that miss weight lose approximately 56-57% of the time in the UFC

[@ef4768]

Wrong, Geoff neal weighed in 175 pounds and shavkat still took that fight and finished him!

[@luiscastaneda5250]

@@ef4768😂😂😂 shazkavat has that dawg in him tho

[@jackvv757]

There's no excuse for missing weight, Diaz, masvidal, chad mendes(just to name a few) made weight on short notice Paul felder and Al laquinta made 155 with 1 days notice the fact that let people like khamzat, khabib, romero, costa, figgy, Olivera and everyones favorite meat ball muncher DC get away with it with it whilst punishing wounderboy and not paying him is a joke, if you miss weight twice you should be banned from the division

[@jesusblanco7657]

I’m glad Dana white doesn’t agree with you . They are professionals they need to make weight

[@thestandardbarber1708]

This is the most upset we've ever seen Steven Thompson. It's great to see him relatable. In my eyes he's only gained more respect. 🥋

[@isaachudson7285]

The crazy thing is that he is still super calm and respectful. That’s the NMF champ right there.

[@trickers24]

You can tell he felt disrespected by michel. I would too if I were in his position. You get a chance to fight #7 when you’re #15 and can’t even make weight? That’s such a slap in the face as wonderboy said

[@dranreb1118]

@@trickers24 At first I thought, just take the 20% off his purse and make the fight. Fighters do it all the time. But then Wonderboy explained and he's right. You can't let guys get away with breaking the rules and you have to respect your opponents.

[@trickers24]

@@dranreb1118 yep. There should be no tolerance for unprofessionalism in a sport of professionals. It is actually embarrassing

[@K33f11]

​@@trickers24well said

[@leliel12th43]

We Brazilians are really disappointed with what Pereira did to himself. Until now what we are thinking is that he didn't take serious the fight. He goes a lot to party and isn't so disciplined. It's sad what he did to himself. Thompson is totally right, although it would be a good fight.

[@LobsterCucumber]

You speak for all of us? Lol. I think for myself and I think Pereira is a savage who will win no matter what. Everyone misses weight. You are not real Brazil mans like me

[@deanlaunder4133]

​@@LobsterCucumber Everyone misses weight? The only people that miss weight I can think of are Brazilian fighters, it's unprofessional

[@chaddrusso8850]

@@LobsterCucumberyou clearly don’t think very well if you think “everyone misses weight” Thompson just said he’s had over 80-90 pro fights and has never missed weight. All the champs right now Izzy, Volk, Jones,etc have never missed weight so I have no idea what you’re talking about and I don’t think you do either.

[@leliel12th43]

@@LobsterCucumber so, you are a "real man" and you think that it's ok to sign a contract and don't fullfil your duty? This is a strange concept of what a man should be. To "win no matter what" it's not the question under analysis. But if it were he didn't even won the fight with himself to have discipline and make the weight.

[@LobsterCucumber]

@@chaddrusso8850 man you just a gay for thomas

[@mortiis469]

Thompson has ALWAYS been such a class act. Always refreshing to hear his interviews, his thought process, and of course his fights.

[@iorilamia]

Too bad he’s going to get punished for speaking out

[@tarkpoker]

Wonderboy is a such a boss. The way he articulated his reasons for not taking the fight make perfect sense. I was really looking forward to this one and it is a shame only one person showed up.

[@calvinmiguel4405]

It’s a shame the UFC is making an example of him and not paying up.

[@SuperThesavage]

wonderboy the one that didnt show up, did you not see the news he was the one that pulled out lol....be semi informed before commenting on matters u dont fully understand please

[@tarkpoker]

I think you misunderstood my comment. I'm aware he was the one who decided not to fight. I'm saying his reasons make sense. By showed up I meant showed up on weight. @@SuperThesavage

[@varencilator]

Respect, sportsmanship, and fairness. That's what Stephen Thompson embodies while putting on an amazing show for the world. Pereira and the promotion need to get on his level.

[@Woodcutting96]

The idea of Wonderboy being done dirty and not recieve his pay actually gets me quite emotional. I don't know the man personally but you can clearly see what a pure soul he is. People like Stephen should be cherish and treasured. They don't make em' like him very often.

[@CMTURNS20]

Emotional? Dude didn't take the fight get a grip pal

[@michaelallen5766]

Exactly, he could have gotten his pay plus 20% and even negotiated a special “tax” for fighting a heavier opponent. The UFC awards show money to those who show up , he chose NOT to fight so that makes him a no show

[@ChiaBroGuy]

@@michaelallen5766you sign a contract and cheat coming in overweight, you don’t deserve to represent the company anymore.. that’s my opinion but the UFC have recently rewarded people that come in overweight like Khamzat. It’s easy for people to say just fight but one loss makes a world of difference in MMA legacy

[@CMTURNS20]

@@michaelallen5766 this is spot on, and the most accurate comment I've seen yet, the dude if he wanted his money should have took the bout, now he's on helwani taking about not getting money, a guy Dana and the brass hate. If I'm Dana I'm looking at this and thinking what a absolute fuss over him not choosing to fight and ngl I wouldn't pay him maybe 25% for making weight but that's about it

[@50_shadesof_green88]

@@michaelallen5766dude you’re literally clueless

[@Dev-qs7ss]

6:21 That's a great point. They think that since Wonderboy is a nice guy, he'll still go through with the fight even if they don't make weight (like he did with Darren Till). Props to putting your foot down Wonderboy and standing up for what is right. Stephen is such a great inspiration outside of the cage!

[@davidbell4626]

I hope and pray that wonderboy get msg against a grappler /wrestler!

[@jericho-tube]

I do not see it. 1st of all Wonderboy refused to fight wrestlers. He wanted only strikers. Now when a striker is given and missed only 3lb then also Wonderboy refused. He must vacate his ranking because it is creating problem for other guys . None scared away against a fighter who is only 3lb overweight. Lol

[@GiantFlamingClasher]

@@davidbell4626 hey did u know that wonderboy during tyron woodleys run/wb prime had the best take down defense at ww?

[@jericho-tube]

​@@GiantFlamingClasherIf his takedown defence is not holding up now then he should quit mma

[@davidbell4626]

@@jakecollins4545 who? Old man Jonny Hendrix........

[@phillipadams4691]

Stephen Thompson is holding up the principles that martial artists should stand for. We are very proud that he represents the Carolinas. Keep your word, show up, make weight, don't cheat and fight your heart out. If you do that, you have nothing to be ashamed of.

[@RLyEZ]

Imagine being 10 years younger and being unable to cut weight like your 40-year-old opponent? WB really is an MMA role model.

[@johnny1123]

I love how everybody has supported Wonderboy throughout this. He did is job, cut weight responsibly, and fulfilled his contractual obligations prior to the fight. The dude should not be punished for taking a fight which has zero upside at a catchweight. The man only has X-amount of fights that he can have in this stage of his career, so each fight has ramifications towards his ultimate goal at a title PAY THE MAN! Not only his show money, but Pereira's as well. After all, Pereira is the one who screwed things up. Wonderboy is a National Treasure!

[@MikeySkywalker]

Same. I'm so happy the fans have backed him. Fans are wising up to weight bullies.

[@martin13379]

what title? ufc made him a solid with Kevin Holland it was easy fight for a one dimensional striker! Lol! Give him Rakhmonov or Chimaev or Usman!

[@jasonthompson1604]

I want him to fight connor. Let the man get a big payday

[@hugus800]

Bro Connor will never fight a big 170er. Hell aside from Twitter beef and fighting old men and young ladies in bars. McGregor won't be fighting anyone.

[@MikeySkywalker]

@@hugus800 what about the dollar bill he rolls up to snort his coke? I guarantee you there are some knock down drag out fights in his future with a rolled up dollar bill.

[@okiejw3008]

Never seen WonderBoy this upset/angry. Great interview thank you for sharing and throwing all your emotions out there for the fans you deserve better! Respect. 👊

[@s.n.9485]

Lol. Wonderboy angry is just most people being miffed. Dude is a class act.

[@Garspawnish]

So much respect for Thompson; he uses the words “honor” and “integrity”-which shouldn’t be rare, but sadly, it is these days. Integrity is the most important characteristic a human can possess. I love this guy.

[@milesstover3724]

hes the best of men getting the worst of treatment because honor has taken a back seat today

[@Droy3774]

funny you say that i thought the same thing

[@notsomeanmark]

People don't realize that living with honor and integrity are a way of honoring one's parents. Whenever I see someone doing something unjust, stupid etc. I see a person insulting their parents. I think "what type of person created this monster?". Thinking that way helps keep me in check. I don't want to dishonor my parents.

[@jasonthompson1604]

Also there's a difference between talking about it and following it. Wonderboy lives that life. Classy guy

[@NicoGee1]

100% Agree!! ♥🙏👊

[@darrinhope6540]

Stephen Thompson is a honorable man ! He is a mentor for all who practice martial arts ! Much respect !

[@CamillaSharpe]

Happy to see all the support for this legend deserved 100%. Such a great conversation..

[@katelyn9182]

Man this hurts to see such a wonderful ambassador for the sport and a true martial artist go through this 😔 He definitely made the right call, and he should absolutely get paid his show money at least. Jeez it would be sweet if he could come down under 🇦🇺 and maybe even fight someone at middleweight?? So many big fans of his here. Hope he gets paid and gets a big fight next!

[@thatindiandude4602]

IMO, he should be paid what he is owed.

[@rman229]

@@thatindiandude4602and fine/deduct pay from michel

[@Connor-tz5bi]

Imagine wonderboy v Jack Dm In Sydney

[@kenlabz7046]

"Giving them a chance to climb up the leaderboard, as he did too when he was at that stage of his career." That alone sums it all up among all the things he said! Props to Wonderboy for being classy and a real professional as ever! Always rootin for you bro!👍

[@ricardojornada]

Him and GSP are the greatest examples of true martial artists in the business

[@kylermaxey9396]

He is truly an embodiment of a true martial artist

[@TheRealLesGutches]

The problem is the fact that Pereira quit cutting. He was going to be fresher.. I'm glad wonderboy didn't take that fight. The man needs to be paid.

[@calvinmiguel4405]

UFC wants to make an example out of him. They don’t want other fighters doing the same thing by standing up for themselves. They want the fighter to take the fight even if they’re at a clear disadvantage when the other fighter doesn’t honor the contracted weight.

[@gamingustaad6237]

But say the opponent was injured like when Tony injured due to tripping. It happens all the time where fighters don’t get another replacement when their opponent is out of the fight at the very last. Corey Sandman was preparing for Umar all this time and only since the last week he finds out his opponent is out. Guess what happens if UFC offered him a replacement and he says “pay me already. I don’t need to fight that fight.” I think the best thing for both is to get him another fight as soon as possible but can’t pay him just now because he didn’t even appear in 1 second of round no 1.

[@surelywoo]

I always just assumed that if a fighter doesn't make weight, then it is automatically a loss. Was looking forward to see Wonderboy in the octagon, but he already won in my mind. 100% support his decision.

[@richardashmore6386]

Fully agree with Wonderboy on this, it's obviously a huge advantage to not cut those last 3 lbs. Was really looking forward to that fight too. Pereira missed weight twice now right? Maybe time to go up to 185 for him?

[@Louilemarchand]

He is a known weight bully you can tell just by looking at him that he’s too big for ww

[@lake0417]

Hes either missed weight or fought at a catchweight 6 times

[@m.j.e.5245]

Weight cutting is dangerous and stupid, it's not honorable to cut weight, its unnatural.

[@PeteH0121]

@@lake0417 Disgusting and totally amateurish,

[@Ar1AnX1x]

@@Louilemarchand he's not entertaining neither, he just jumps around, dude once backflipped on top of the guy on the ground, he could have stumped his head illegally, its obvious he has no respect

[@samoh4u]

Big pros to Stephen Thompson for standing his ground on this subject. More fighters should be doing the same to send a message to UFC and punish these fighters not making weight!

[@garyhowlett9828]

Wow This guy is a REAL class act!!! All the things missing from today's World.....Integrity, Intelligence, Honesty and Honour and a man of true Ethics and Principles. A fan forever more Wonder Boy!!!

[@Kpictures_NYC]

Stephen is a pure martial artist, known for his level of respect and skill. One of my favorite fighters.

[@leofigueroa7689]

I went to the event in Salt Lake City. I was super excited to see Wonder boy and obviously disappointed when he didn't fight. But I completely understand his decision. Watching this just made me respect him even more. He spoke nothing but facts.

[@dlang1009]

I agree 100% with Wonderboy, he is a true sportsman. Love to watch him fight.

[@FA-pw1yg]

Much respect to you Stephen Thompson Sir! You did the right thing! Honor and integrity is important, especially in such a dangerous sport! 🇯🇲🇺🇸🖤🙏🏾

[@younngsimba124]

Knowing he’s 100% in the right but the matchmakers will probably punish him for this is heartbreaking

[@youdosuck]

sad but true

[@johnjelinek-g7b]

Absolutely man .

[@AveBerkley]

Especially because, like he said, he was giving his opponent a pretty big chance here and he made weight like he was supposed to. I hope he gets a big money fight before he retires.

[@johnjelinek-g7b]

@@AveBerkley He's not 40 in his health and mind , but yeah, he needs some money fights before he feels the need to quit . :)

[@AveBerkley]

@@johnjelinek-g7b oh yeah, the way he looked against Kevin Holland was still prime WB

[@HoldenChandler]

Respect for Stephen Thomson You did right, Im sick of these jokers not making weight.

[@joelpagan9670]

It always breaks my heart listening to the injustices the UFC does to these fighters. I love these guys!

[@BODHI__]

Unfortunately nothing will change until the fighters are able to unionize and collectively bargain for better treatment/pay/healthcare/retirement/etc.

[@EvtheEZway]

Truly one of the best interviews ever! Not just because AH is the best, not because Wonderboy is the best human in MMA, but because it is completely authentic. WB gives us a real behind the scenes explanation of the emotions felt and the actual things they miss out on when this happens to a fighter. It’s not the first time this has happened to a fighter but I feel like this is the first true in depth explanation from a fighter of the emotions and the aspects of fighting that they miss out on both during and after the fight. The whole experience was ruined for him and he did absolutely everything he needed and was required to to make the walk and fight the fight

[@Last_Chance.]

Wonderboy is the greatest, you are 100% correct, but ah is far from the greatest.

[@kirillsergeyev7116]

Wonder boy is 100%! Ariel isn’t at all bro lol

[@Garspawnish]

Thompson is one of the most intelligent, articulate, and thoughtful persons in ANY sport.

[@tdsetffr7350]

Ariel is inconsistent

[@EvtheEZway]

Ok fine how about among the greats of mma reporting. I mean come on. Everyone has their short comings but he’s up there. His longevity says it all

[@AznVi3tx]

My favorite fighter forever. He comes across as really considerate and nice

[@Spookdookin]

I am very grateful for fighters like Stephen Thompson, good on you man 👍

[@nickdean8205]

This is what happens when you treat everyone with kindness and respect. When you do take issue with something most people are going to understand and support your decision because your character has already been known to be great so if you are having an issue with someone there has to be a good reason. All freaking class from Wonderboy.

[@MrWeareone777]

Exactly 👍Great comment.

[@mostlypeacefulmisterputin]

*Wonderboy is 100% right! It's only the people who have never even had to fathom cutting weight, who say "it's only 3 pounds it's no big deal".* *I started wrestling at 7 and participated in my first tournament at 9, and I had to weigh 65 pounds or I wouldn't have been allowed to compete!* *There's absolutely no excuse for grown men and "professionals" who are being paid to uphold a deal, to be missing weight, short of a doctor's order saying it will be detrimental to their health to continue to cut! PERIOD!* #PayWonderboy

[@sammydanger7287]

I completely respect his decision to pull out of the fight. He most likely has this last title run in him. No reason to risk it and give someone even a slight advantage and also reward a guy who didn’t make weight. If you can’t make weight, especially by a few lbs, move up. But damn I wanted to see that fight

[@paulgal]

He won’t get that opportunity now because Uncle Dana will be fuming.

[@BertMMA2136]

@dvelasquez4556he doesn’t really care to fight for the belt anymore he’s doing it cuz he loves fighting that’s why he won’t fight wrestlers he wants to have fun and give the fans a show.

[@bitbrace]

By Stephen not taking this fight he also moved Derrick Lewis from undercard to 3rd from the top and with Derrick awesome KO and post fight he will get another contract rather than be quietly shown the door, so thanks Stephen for that too

[@jsequine927]

This is what really sucks about the situation and the impact weight cuts have on the whole dynamic of a fight. You couldn't find a more professional, honorable and reasonable guy than Wonderboy who did everything he was supposed to do. Then on the morning of the fight, physically and mentally depleted he has to stress about what it means for his future as a fighter, his team, and the fans if he pulls out. It's happened to him before and it's not safe for him to jump in there and fight a bigger guy who hasn't held up his end of the bargain and hasn't done the weight cut, especially at Wonderboy's age. Now he has to wait after all the sacrifices he's made and negotiate whether he gets paid or not. Many things very wrong with that system.

[@Goyimdemduc]

Hes spitting facts staying calm not calling names to anyone this is what a martial artist should be

[@darkclaw1462]

This man just got his own fight cancelled because of his own opponents mistakes of not making weight, so much so that his fight got removed from the main card, and he comes Into this Interview smiling and In such good spirits. How you can you not love Wonderboy?!

[@jericho-tube]

Lol, he should vacate his ranking then. Scared fighter should not hold top 10 ranking in UFC. He also refused to fight any wrestler.

[@fezii9043]

​@@jericho-tubewonderboy isn't scared of anybody. Man is a true professional

[@jericho-tube]

​@@fezii9043He refused to fight wrestlers . Is it true professionalism ?

[@alypha737]

It is no doubt 100% michel fault. But we also found out that wonderboy is just not about that life, and that is totally fine.

[@liberty2four2]

@@jericho-tube there's a reason why the weight-rule is there, if no one will abide by it then much as well scrap it

[@jakekelley5502]

What a solid dude. Much respect. Pay him! I was disappointed that I couldn't see him fight (I paid to attend 291 in person), but I believe he did the right thing. I support his decision.

[@Lpj4]

Gotta love this guy!! Not a boring fighter either. I’m behind him 100%. He needs to be compensated very well. Upstanding guy and fighter! Hopefully we will get to see him fight this year! Thanks Ariel

[@2AMr1911]

What a great dude. This guy deserves to get paid. Behind you 100% Stephen, you made the right call. More of a fan than ever.

[@GQuick-nr7et]

Wonderboy is a beast, his fighting, his mentality, his integrity. 😊

[@huraira2126]

What an honorable man and great role model for the kids he's training.

[@AveBerkley]

I love showing WB to anyone that thinks fighters are just angry meatheads. He truly represents the sport so well. Hope he gets a big pay day before this is all over.

[@huraira2126]

@@AveBerkley his first fight against Woodley was what made me an MMA fan. I hope he gets a huge payday too. I think Wonderboy is one of the most interesting matchups (skillwise) for Conor.

[@AveBerkley]

@@huraira2126 id love to see him get that Conor pay day. I think the fans would love that one too. I’d also like to see him fight fun fights like maybe Dustin at 170. Just big, fun fights. I’ll always watch him. His KZbin channel helped get me into training and losing weight! Inspirational person.

[@billcow3455]

To be motivated and excited to rev up again and go through another camp after this disappointment shows true strength. Great guy for sure!

[@nikhayes3396]

To think this guy still trains kids. He is the only real martial artist in the UFC that I can think of.

[@wesleypipes5673]

Wonderboy is one of my favorite fighters to ever do it, not only because he's a great fighter but also because he always conducts himself like a true martial artist. Nothing but respect.

[@slapcartel]

The thought of Wonderboy too bummed to go to the fight and instead just watching movies in his hotel room is sad as hell

[@libertypastor1307]

Actually, hell is so much sadder it should not be used as an example. Hell is forever; Wonderboy can fight again.

[@walterkaiyuenpang3556]

​@@libertypastor1307have you been to Hell before ? How is it ? 🤔🧐

[@clutch7548]

@@libertypastor1307its just an expression. People also say ‘sad as f***’. Doesnt mean ‘f***’ is sad

[@CavemanLaws]

​@@libertypastor1307No you're wrong. Hell is fun, my friend went there and said it's really warm and comfy and there's steaks and stuff.

[@clutch7548]

@@KaiS-yj8oh Fragile, do you know the conditioning bones need to be able to kick & punch? You are literally way more fragile than him. Making you a massive hypocrite & embarrassment! Facts!

[@sempcast]

this is why wonderboy is my favorite fighter of all time, a true class act!!!!!

[@NorfarPS3]

This is why Stephen is my favorite fighter. I feel so bad that he had to go through that mental anguish of knowing, that him taking this stand meant his coaches not getting paid.

[@danieltancevski2997]

Massive respect for your decision sir. You made the right call. Sometimes the right decision is not the one you want to make, but you did that. You've got the integrity of a real champ. Kudos to you. Looking forward to your next fight!

[@foxybrown2]

that is why cutting weight should be eliminated. You through all that hell. Then just before the fight you get to hydrate up to 10pounds more the day of the fight.

[@AnJrue32]

0:00 Intro 0:27 Pereira missing weight 4:03 Why Wonderboy decided not to fight 9:10 Wonderboy processing weigh in results 12:16 How UFC handled the news 13:35 Did UFC pay Wonderboy 15:12 Ariel's solution to fighters not making weight 18:34 Wonderboy's post UFC 291 feelings 20:29 Has Wonderboy heard from Pereira/Would he fight him again 21:38 When/who Wonderboy wants to fight 24:29 Pressure to take the fight

[@petemo94]

This right here! You’re the best 👍

[@ghxst_sosa9901]

SALUTE FOR THE TIME STAMPYS 🤝

[@anxee]

My guy.

[@lillyanp4]

Man damn! This honestly couldn’t have happened to a better person. I live in Simpsonville South Carolina and have personally met him, and the guy is the same guy you see in this interview. Just a genuine honest man. Cmon UFC.

[@erickbolden2584]

Fighters fighter and class act.

[@jthomasclark]

Such a great conversation. Literally talked about everything I wanted to know about. Total class from both guys.

[@RomanByTheRiverside]

Missing weight should count as a loss by DQ on the fighter's record, unless both miss weight.

[@KharlHungus]

yeah putting the ball in the responsible guys court isn't right.

[@ronaldtaylor7778]

I like this!

[@AlexDeJardin-q3t]

Easy Solution!! Let’s make this viral

[@jericho-tube]

Lol, and refusing to fight wrestlers should also be a DC then 😂

[@masbodycheck3219]

@@jericho-tubea contract was never signed and no one’s time was wasted. what are you talking about. you can refuse any fight you want, every fighter has done that, can’t believe someone genuinely dislikes wonder boy.

[@williamcolon5393]

I know this is said alot, but hes a true athlete and extremely personable man. IMHO, he's the best ambassador for the sport

[@rains4707]

You may never see this Wonderboy, but you did the right thing and I hope more fighters follow your lead on this…I’ve always enjoyed your performances….thank you, and hold their hands to the fire on this one brother!

[@ronaldsummey469]

It's those last few that hurt the most sometimes and to not go through it makes a big difference. I applaud him for standing his ground the next person would do the same thing to him.

[@amodernalchemist432]

If you're in the UFC, you're in the best MMA organization, act like a f_cking *professional!*

[@BeastLegend91]

I've heard people say it's just 3 or 4 pounds. However, what they don't understand is how depleting and taxing a weight cut is. Those few pounds can be the difference of how hydrated your brain is, how less depleted your muscles are. Why should you have to put yourself in that state and your opponent is like nah I am good at 174lbs we can fight now.

[@fearlessonez]

Agreed. That argument is so ridiculous because if it's just 3 or 4 pounds, then the other guy should make the weight.

[@Monscent]

Also plenty of people just fight at the next higher weight class because they know they cant make the lower weight. They might, however be able to make 3-4 lbs over the lower weightclass..

[@PeteH0121]

The real problem is that on fight night it is NOT going to be just 3 pounds. That dude will have been working hard to cut down and STILL missed weight. Come the fight he would have been way heavier and that is simply NOT fair. Stephen should get at least 50% of the fee to cover his expenses. The other guy should be dropped 10-15 places in the rankings. Maybe that's the answer. Make a ranking cut for EVERYONE who misses weight.

[@93tilinfinity4life]

💯

[@cameronleake9022]

@@PeteH0121 totally agree, guaranteed if they went down in the rankings for missing weight we’d see it happen less

[@GR369]

The fact the UFC didnt break him off a piece for doing everything he was required to do is a disgrace. PAY THE MAN!!!!

[@MostafaElSakari]

Don’t fight, don’t get paid simple as that

[@GR369]

@@MostafaElSakari so you just do the 8 week camp, weight cut for free? and pay your travel, accomodation and coaches with what? Pretty unfair if you don't have a VALID opponent

[@MostafaElSakari]

@@GR369 he did have an opponent, it’s not like he pulled a Paulo Costa and came in 20 pounds heavier. He made the CHOICE not to fight

[@GR369]

@@MostafaElSakari i guess we have to disagree on what is fair then. Your entitled to your opinion. My view is the weight limit is strict for a reason and even 1 pound over is a rule break. I understand your view is to take that limit more generally. Thats okay.

[@dkjkaden]

​@MostafaElSakari He signed a contract to FIGHT his opponent at 170pnds and his opponent DIDNT MAKE WEIGHT so he fulfilled his side of the contract so he should've been paid.

[@joeblow26]

One of the best ever!!!

[@Jeremy-th5pt]

Don't mistake Wonderboy's kindness for weakness

[@jesszaeus7371]

Mad respect.. Standing up and making it very clear good on you, man

[@CannaBallistic]

I'm shocked this is a conversation. If you don't make weight you forfeit 20% of your purse, and your opponent has a RIGHT to refuse the fight.. It's nit Wonderboys problem that his opponent was unprofessional and was 4 POUNDS overweight!

[@mostlypeacefulmisterputin]

*Pereira missed weight in September 2019 against Tristan Connelly, and Diego Sanchez came out before their fight in 2020 and warned Pereira that if he didn't make weight, he wasn't fighting him either, so obviously this isn't an isolated issue* *It’s not a big deal only to anyone who has never had to cut weight* *I started wrestling at age 7 and participated in my first state tournament at 9 and even at 9 years old I had to weigh 65 lbs or I wasn’t allowed to compete, and that was 30 years ago* *MMA and the UFC have grown into the biggest and most watched sport the last few years, and these are adults who are being paid to be professionals and hold up their end of the deal* *Theres nobody from the UFC saying that it was a medical thing and the Drs didn’t feel it was safe for him to continue to cut, this strikes me as an apathy towards the rules that he feels aren’t a big deal and that’s the problem!*

[@Rippleshanks]

This is absolutely true. I also grew up wrestling and know the challenges of a weight cut all too well. It's always someone who has never experienced something like that saying 3 or 4 pounds is no big deal

[@craiglyle2966]

One FC came up with a solution that works. Weight cutting’s dangerous. It may be legal but in other organisations but still cheating at the end of the day.

[@Last_Chance.]

​@@Rippleshanksfacts

[@miken2968]

I grew up wrestling and had to make weight every week, every tournament! And these guys have to make it how many times a year? No excuses 10:38

[@JK-vc7ie]

UFC is not even close to being the most watched sport.

[@ahmadabdeljabbar8375]

Everything he said is 100% on point. He's earned the right and respect not to fight someone who didn't make weight. Michel messed up bad, this was the biggest fight of his life.

[@dahui58]

No one needs to earn the right to turn a fight down if the other fighter fails to make weight

[@ahmadabdeljabbar8375]

@@dahui58 true, but if you're an up and comer and you need to prove yourself and you need the money you're gonna have to take that fight. Wonderboy is past that.

[@dahui58]

@@ahmadabdeljabbar8375 wonderboy is fighting for legacy now not really money. So the money is not worth the risk of losing his ranking. It's more down to the fact that he doesn't have a lot of time left given his age. I think they just need to fix this so that the people who miss weight are the only ones who are punished

[@kaeylib]

Legend! Utmost respect for his decision, praying he gets payed for setting the right example 😁

[@GL.Killercod]

Good god Mr. Thompson, what a fantastic interview. I’ve got so much respect for you my friend, definition of a class act.

[@raphaelm6149]

Big Big Kudos to Stephen Thompson ... belt or no belt he carries himself with the heart of a champion and deserves his due! I sense big things in his future!!!

[@fammendez]

Wonderboy es un profesional. Un hombre que ha dado todo por la ufc. De deseo lo mejor desde México.

[@josephmiller3513]

The last 4 pounds depletes the body the most,especially if they struggled to get to 4 pounds over

[@Feanor3444]

Wonderboy, mad respect to you for taking the tough, but honorable, path. Can’t wait to see your next fight, with a more honorable opponent!!!

[@josephmiller3513]

It's great to hear you mention that martial arts is about honor and integrity.Make weight or don't be a fighter

[@edwardjames6070]

look at the fighters that the ufc 'plays games with' and the fighters that the ufc favors. ufc is NOT LEGIT!

[@chriswest2290]

Wonder boys no punk. He’s a principled man. 👍

[@itchyrichy]

We support you wonderboy!! Hope you get paid and get back in the octagon soon

[@justinbelt8032]

The sport needs more men like this. Society needs more men like this.

[@Upthereds777]

I’ll be honest I’ve always been one of those who has said ‘it’s only 4lbs, it’s only a bag of sugar’ etc. but the point he made about the last few lbs being the hardest part of the whole camp and rye other guy not having to go through it means they have a massive advantage in the fight. Never seen it that way.

[@jeremyweems4916]

It's not just about the weight itself. It's the suffering, pain, sleeplessness, and mental misery that comes along with cutting the weight. If you're suffering to a point of self torture, and your opponent is eating and lying in bed resting.... bad situation for you.

[@outlander234]

Not massive advantage as he said but in a close fight like with Till it could be that deciding difference.

[@pierer91]

@@outlander234did he say it wasn't a massive advantage? Don't think he said that.

[@outlander234]

@@pierer91 He did say it indirectly. He said in a close fight it can make all the difference.

[@Maxrepfitgm]

​@mrfatuchi If it's not a big difference then his opponent should've made the weight right?

[@redsand848evo]

He fulfilled his commitment, he deserves the show. I guess if they screw him it leads legitimately to Francis and his claims.

[@stevengeorge-]

🙌 Big Respect. Absolute legend in the sport and a perfect roll model on how to treat the sport or any business in that case. Speaks really well and is true to himself. #Legend 🙌

[@RossTheNinja]

A man with integrity