Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson’s night in Nashville was a rough one both physically and professionally. After dropping a split decision to rising contender Gabriel Bonfim (18-1) in the UFC on ESPN 70 co-main event, Thompson revealed he suffered a gruesome injury: a deep gash to his left shin that went “split to the bone,” requiring immediate medical attention. The injury occurred when Bonfim checked a kick, and Thompson could be seen post fight on crutches, with his leg heavily bandaged.
The loss drops Thompson to 17-9-1, and it’s another setback for the 41-year-old former title challenger. While the damage was severe, Thompson remained in good spirits in his video message to fans, saying he was grateful for the support. As for Bonfim, the win is the biggest of his UFC career so far and pushes him one step closer to title contention in the crowded welterweight division.
Will this be the last fight for Wonderboy?
Thompson has not confirmed anything, but the combination of age, recent losses, and now a serious leg injury could signal a potential retirement conversation soon. But Dana White chimed in on Thompson’s future in the UFC.
“I don’t know – that’s up to him,” White said during the UFC on ESPN 70 post-fight press conference. “Yeah, I would like to see him continue fighting. He looked great tonight. ‘Wonderboy’ looked great tonight. For a guy who is a traditional martial artist, kickboxer, does a damn good job staying off the ground and defending the takedown and staying out of submissions. He’s one of the nicest human beings on the planet.”
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Robert LaMar is a writer for Dice City Sports. You can follow him on X via @RobertLaMar26
