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

Stephen Thompson explains why he pulled out of his UFC 291 fight after his opponent missed weight, when he knew Michel Pereira was going to be overweight, has a message to his future opponents, the process of whether to take the fight or not, if he has gotten paid yet, when he wants to return, and more.
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[@TimeBucks]

Such a great conversation.

[@sabzali6277]

👍

[@fabriciorocchia4516]

Nice

[@sumonKhan-bj2fp]

Nice

[@alikhan-ul6nb]

Nice

[@musafirbillal]

Nice

[@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

[@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? 😂😂😂😂😂

[@AMediumSizedKodiak]

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

[@user-kh2yl6nn3l]

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

[@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

[@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

[@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

[@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.

[@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

[@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.

[@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?

[@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.

[@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 😡😡😡😡😡

[@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

[@ricardojornada]

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

[@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

[@SM_K1]

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

[@user-ru2kq2sg7w]

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

[@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.

[@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.

[@nilsbeuschlein]

Try fasting without water lmao

[@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

[@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.

[@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!!!

[@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

[@ezekielzuniga8127]

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

[@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.

[@bamaphoenix9873]

Great interview. Well done.

[@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

[@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........

[@mathmatics8034]

Def did right thing my man. And setting an example for fighters may help change this issue. Hope we’ll and all the best

[@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.

[@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

[@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.

[@CombatScienceLab]

Love ya wonderboy you're an inspiration man the way you carry yourself in every moment ive seen you is how i want to be. Reminds me of all the humble 🐐's thats true warrior spirit.

[@Mark-Zhark]

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!! ♥🙏👊

[@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

[@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!!!

[@FammOverEverything]

8:50 NO MORE MR. NICE GUY!!!! Still one of ky favorite fighters of all time!! Lets go wonderboy!!! Cant wait to see u out there again! We do appreciate all your hard work!!

[@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.

[@darrinhope6540]

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

[@kevinscottthompson]

i think you sent an important message with your decision - thanks so much for your videos

[@bigred7918]

You absolutely did the right thing wonderboy. We love you, your attitude, your professionalism, your kindness. Keep up the great work. We will always stand behind you

[@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

[@kylermaxey9396]

He is truly an embodiment of a true martial artist

[@jaymundy243]

Stephen.....Thank God you have the honor and integrity to stand for what is right, even when the cost is high. Many people's lives will be touched in a positive way by your choices and actions; this was a message that needed to be heard!

[@itchyrichy]

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

[@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!

[@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!👍

[@joshualeodorfman]

Man of class and a beautiful fighter. Support here from 🇬🇧

[@davidmckeown8215]

Nicest guy in MMA! Look forward to your next fight Wonderboy.

[@Kpictures_NYC]

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

[@drugbustin]

Facts...Thomson also knows that pulling out this fight will hurt his opponents wallet more than it will hurt his...Taught Michel a valuable lesson

[@HoldenChandler]

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

[@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.

[@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

[@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.

[@SaltyySavage]

Love how he went about this and 💯 done the right thing in not taking the fight, taking a stand, showing that if you sign that contract you better stick to the agreement be professional

[@nautiboy7814]

Very honorable, i wish someone would have done this sooner! Great job Wonderboy!

[@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

[@Mark-Zhark]

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

[@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.

[@thomassheridan4252]

A true gentleman was in the gym with my son a few weeks ago,time for everyone no ego helping people even tho he was getting ready for a fight.

[@massimotkalec7031]

spot on, good man

[@Spookdookin]

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

[@younngsimba124]

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

[@youdosuck]

sad but true

[@user-kh2yl6nn3l]

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.

[@user-kh2yl6nn3l]

@@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]

@@user-kh2yl6nn3l oh yeah, the way he looked against Kevin Holland was still prime WB

[@danmccann7010]

Good on Wonderboy, totally agree fighters have the choice to turn a fight down if weight is not made as creates an unfair advantage. Mush have been a difficult decision. I am concerned that consequences to missing weight drive fighters to unsafely cut the last few pounds if there is too much 19:20 pressure. The real solution is stopping the amount of weight fighters can cut and competing at a more natural weight.

[@ingmard3178]

Huge fan like everybody here..and always Will be. You go wonderboy!

[@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!

[@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! 🇯🇲🇺🇸🖤🙏🏾

[@mrydobon]

Way to set an example, Wonderboy! We're with you.

[@AznVi3tx]

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

[@Goyimdemduc]

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

[@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.

[@kaeylib]

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

[@Cnerf55]

Wonderboy is awesome man. I really look up to him as a practitioner of martial arts and a person in general. Always smiling even when he’s been screwed. love ya WB!

[@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.

[@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!

[@user-td7pp2pc9f]

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.

[@NoDoSwLa]

One of a kind. Real wonderboy 🙌

[@shaunduval6572]

Old school people that think highly of loyalty and just a person's word is good to see we still have some of those people out there. When you shake a man's hand that is more important than signing a contract it is your word you are only as good as your word

[@ikemanficial483]

Well spoken. Speaking like a wrestler about cutting the weight. Ppl be acting weak before the fight w/ that or not truly trying….?

[@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.

[@robweatherford5957]

Absolute respect for you!!!

[@Jeremy-th5pt]

Don't mistake Wonderboy's kindness for weakness

[@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.

[@zachj210tx]

Great interview Ariel! Much respect to Wonderboy, a true legend of mma!

[@vanhattfield8292]

The only thing I can think of from the promotions side to deal with this in a way that can still provide the fans fights and not provide an advantage to either of the two fighters who are contracted is to have two stand by fighters available as a backup, one at their contracted weight and one at the weight class above. If one the fighters does not make weight, he would be moved to the next weight class up and fight the standby fighter in that weight class and the other fighter would compete against the standby fighter in the contracted weight class. It's not perfect, but it allows everyone to still fight and get paid and the fans to still see the guys fight. The guy that missed weight would not have to take the fight in the higher division, but he would not get paid otherwise and would also be responsible for all discipline and fines given by the UFC.

[@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.

[@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.

[@bobby6204]

Such a good dude, shame we didn't get to see him but i agree with him, happening alot recently.

[@R33Bandit]

What im hearing (not a fighter) is that its NOT the difference of 2kg. or 5kg. Its the punishment the body takes when actually cutting those additional few kg. I think thats something that needs to be explained to the casual fanbase (like me) better than it is currently. Many just cry "its only 2kg! it doesnt make a difference!" but they (nor myself) havnt gone through the hell of cutting those last 2kg, and how hard it is to bounce back.

[@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.

[@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!

[@abosworth]

Awesome interview. I hope he sets a precedent for other fighters. Can't fault him for not agreeing to the catch weight.

[@Lpowell42]

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

[@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!

[@dlang1009]

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

[@PaultheBronson]

I kindly support you and your decisions 🎉 I respect your honor and integrity beyond all else ❤ I will always make weight no if ands or buts

[@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.

[@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

[@Meta.Empress]

It's cool, Wonderboy - we get it - we still love and support you - you raise the bar and set an example for future fighters 💚