Stephen Thompson wants Ian Machado Garry fight but doesn’t expect it

Former UFC welterweight title challenger Stephen Thompson likes the concept of preventing Ian Machado Garry, however he doubts it’ll occur.

Stylistically, Garry (15-0 MMA, 8-0 UFC) is an interesting matchup for Thompson (17-7-1 MMA, 12-7-1 UFC), however he acknowledges that he’s not on “The Future’s” radar. Thompson, 41, is not chasing UFC gold however is assured he can nonetheless compete with high contenders. When requested his ideas on potential matchups with Garry and Michael Web page, “Wonderboy” defined why Garry is extra interesting.

“I believe it could be nice, particularly Ian Garry,” Thompson stated on the “Imagine You Me” podcast. “However at this cut-off date, I type of see the place he’s at. Like, he’s simply searching for the gold. I don’t suppose he would even wish to give me an opportunity. I’m ranked No. 9. He’s near the title. I believe he’s searching for that subsequent. And MVP, I believe it could be – I believe the followers would love that combat. That’s the factor. I believe it could simply be that.

“Simply shifting round and gazing one another the entire time. We’re each counter strikers, . We acquired that karate background, we would like guys to return ahead in order that they run into our strategies, so we are able to work our angles, so we are able to blitz. However when you could have one other counter striker on the opposite aspect of the octagon with you, it may presumably be one of the vital boring fights ever, and I believe individuals would boo it. I believe individuals would boo that combat. I actually do, man.”

Garry remained unbeaten when he scored a detailed determination win over Web page at UFC 303. In the meantime, Thompson will look to rebound when he meets rising contender Joaquin Buckley (19-6 MMA, 9-4 UFC) Oct. 5 at UFC 307 (pay-per-view, ESPN, ESPN+) from Delta Middle in Salt Lake Metropolis.

“What made the Ian Garry combat so particular and thrilling was Ian Garry simply got here ahead,” Thompson stated. “He wished to return ahead. He wished to get shut, which may play into ‘MVP’s’ fingers, however clearly Ian Garry acquired the perfect of him that night time.

“I might like to have that combat with Ian Garry for certain, however I believe he’s simply going to go for the title. However I don’t thoughts preventing these younger bucks like Joaquin Buckley and Kevin Holland and all these guys. It’s enjoyable to nonetheless take a look at myself in opposition to these guys arising.”