Looks like the “Nomad” army will finally get its wish.
After previously turning down the fight, former welterweight title challenger Stephen Thompson has finally agreed to battle undefeated 170-pound sensation Shavkat Rakhmonov as part of the upcoming UFC 296 pay-per-view (PPV) event, recently made official for Sat., Dec. 16, 2023 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.
“Wonderboy” revealed the booking on Friday.
No. 2-ranked contender Colby Covington. A commanding performance from either Thompson or Rakhmonov — particularly a finish — could set up the next 170-pound title fight.
Unless this longtime contender finally gets his (overdue) title shot.
Thompson (17-6-1) is coming off a technical knockout victory over Kevin Holland at UFC Orlando last December. “Wonderboy” was expected to make his return against Michel Pereira at UFC 291; however, “Demolidor” failed to make weight and the contest was scrapped.
calling out every 170-pounder under the sun, he’s a perfect 5-0 in five trips to the Octagon and boasts an incredible 17 finishes in 17 wins. “Nomad’s” last performance ended by way of rear-naked choke, dispatching veteran welterweight Geoff Neal at UFC 285 last March.
For the current UFC 296 fight card and PPV lineup click here.