Thompson outclasses Neal in last UFC fight of 2020
Stephen "Wonderboy" Thompson dominated in the final UFC main event of the year, beating Geoff Neal via unanimous decision (50-45, 50-45, 50-45) Saturday at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas.
The former title challenger - who turns 38 years old in February - proved he's still a top welterweight contender with his second straight victory.
"Wonderboy's still here, baby," Thompson said in his postfight interview. "That title - 2021, I'm telling you, it's going to be mine, brother. You watch and see. But I'm just glad to be back."
This was Thompson's first bout since November 2019 when he bested up-and-comer Vicente Luque at UFC 244. He broke both hands in that fight and suffered a collarbone injury in training this past summer, which delayed his return.
Thompson, who's ranked No. 5 at 170 pounds, outclassed Neal for five rounds in Saturday's headliner. He used his unorthodox striking and karate stance to pick apart the rising contender.
Neal came forward and looked to land powerful punches, but he seemed puzzled by Thompson's movement and footwork. Thompson maintained distance with straight punches and a variety of kicks. He also boasted a speed advantage, which helped him avoid Neal's biggest shots.
Afterward, Thompson called for a rematch with Jorge Masvidal, whom he beat via unanimous decision in 2017.
"I want to see the NMF (nicest motherf-----) versus the BMF (baddest motherf-----, baby," Thompson said. "Let's make that happen. Stephen 'Wonderboy' Thompson versus Jorge Masvidal 2."
Thompson was on crutches during a backstage interview and said he believes he may have torn a tendon or a muscle in his right thigh. His leg appeared to be swollen before the start of the fifth round.
Following his victory over Neal, Thompson is riding his first winning streak since 2016.
Meanwhile, Neal suffered his first loss in the Octagon. The 30-year-old debuted in 2018 after a win on Dana White's Contender Series and enjoyed a 5-0 start, which includes viciously knocking out Mike Perry last December.