Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson ended his career in style with a spectacular spinning back kick knockout over Charles Radtke to cap off the UFC 334 prelims.
After already announcing that Saturday would serve as his retirement fight, Thompson delivered another classic finish after he uncorked the kick and sent Radtke crashing to the canvas. The end officially came at 2:54 in the third round with Thompson celebrating his win by laying down his gloves in the octagon for the last time.
“I’ve been with the UFC for almost 15 years, I couldn’t have asked for better than a spin back kick to the dome,” Thompson said after his win. “I don’t care if your hands are up, a spin back kick, you’re going down. I told myself I wasn’t going to cry. I just want to say I love you.”
Radtke was on the gas pedal from the jump before diving for a takedown before the first minute expired. Thompson was quick to start working his way up with Radtke doing his best to maintain his position on top.
Thompson eventually worked his way back up with Radtke holding onto the clinch against the cage. When he finally broke free, Thompson started to establish his jab while keeping Radtke at a distance while playing counter fighter from the outside.
In the second round, Thompson kept chipping away from the outside with Radtke still trying to pressure forward. Radtke eventually shot in for the takedown but Thompson resisted effectively.
Thompson then started getting a little looser with his striking, tossing out straight punches and then mixing in a variety of kicks. Thompson continued pouring it on with Radtke nearly wilting with time running out in the round.
With five minutes remaining, Thompson was quick to establish his striking again including a heel kick to the face. Radtke was clearly slowing down and Thompson was taking full advantage.
Thompson kept tossing out combinations and Radtke was struggling to answer with his own offense. Thompson then unleashed a spinning back kick that blasted Radtke and sent him to the canvas for the final time.
Thompson ends his career as one of the most lethal strikers in UFC history and a top welterweight for almost his entire time in the promotion. He walks away with another highlight reel knockout to go out on a victory.
