Thompson likes idea of fighting Lawler for UFC title in Manila

MANILA, Philippines – Fighting Robbie Lawler for the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) welterweight title in front of Filipino mixed martial arts (MMA) fans is a big yes for up-and-coming fighter Stephen Thompson. 

Visiting the country for a 5-day promotional tour, Thompson would like to make another trip to the Philippines for an official UFC bout. He buys the brilliant idea of vying for the gold-plated strap against Lawler, who is of Filipino and Anglo American descent.

“When I do fight him, I think it will be awesome fighting in the Philippines. I think we will put a good show. The fans here are amazing. They are some of the best I’ve seen,” Thompson told Rappler. 

The 33-year-old full-contact kickboxer from Simpsonville, South Carolina piled up 6 straight victories since losing to Matt Brown in April 2013, picking up impressive triumphs over the likes of Chris Clements, Robert Whittaker, and Jake Ellenberger. 

Currently rated as No. 3 in the 170-pound weight class’ rankings, Thompson solidified his position for title talks by thumping former UFC welterweight champion Johny Hendricks by first-round technical knockout earlier this month. 

On the other hand, Lawler captured the UFC welterweight belt by edging out Hendricks via split decision in their December 2014 rematch.

Since his razor-thin victory over Hendricks, Lawler, 33, of Coconut Creek, Florida, successfully defended the UFC world title twice, defeating Rory MacDonald via fifth-round stoppage in their July 2015 second encounter before outpointing Carlos Condit by split decision this past January.

Although many cageside observers suggest that Thompson should face either Tyron Woodley or MacDonald in a title eliminator, “Wonder Boy” believes that his 6-fight winning streak already earned him the right to challenge Lawler. 

Thompson asserted that his dynamic fighting style will end Lawler’s reign as the UFC welterweight champion. 

“I know in my heart that I can finish Robbie Lawler. I can definitely take that belt home and be a good champion,” he said. 

Thompson, who has scored 7 knockouts in 12 professional wins, is being rumored to square off with MacDonald later this year. 

Meanwhile, Condit and Woodley are the leading candidates to lock horns with Lawler in his next outing. – Rappler.com