Finalizing: Darren Till vs Stephen Thompson
We (99.9% most likely) have a fight ladies and gentlemen!
According to sources, the main event for UFC Liverpool to be held on May 27th is very close to being finalized. Darren Till should be squaring off against Stephen Thomspon at Echo Arena.
This will mark Darren Till's 6th bout with the promotion as he has gone (5-0-1) with his latest victory being a knockout win over Donald Cerrone. Stephen Thompson, on the other hand, will be partaking in his 13th bout under the UFC banner. In his UFC career, he has suffered only one defeat at the hands of Welterweight Champion Tyron Woodley. His last fight was in November of 2017 when he outclassed Jorge Masvidal to a unanimous decision.
Key Factors To Consider
Kickboxing Pedigree: According to sources, Darren Till was a phenomenal kickboxier and was undefeated through 44 fights. But Stephen Thompson surpasses Till in the world of Kickboxing. Thompson is (according to sources) undefeated through 37 amateur and 57 professional Kickboxing matches. He is considered one of the most prolific strikers of all time. EDGE: Thompson
Age: At 35 years old, Stephen Thompson is as great as can be. The 'Wonderboy' has not shown signs of slowing down and seems to be in great shape. Thompson is one of the few fighters that does not rely on athleticism, rather pure technique and ring generalship. BUT these young bucks are no joke. Every generation produces faster and stronger athletes. Darren Till (25) is one of those athletes. Furthermore, he has the skills and techniques to go along with it. Till is young, hungry, and has an ever-growing arsenal. At this point in each man's career, I have to give the EDGE: TIll
In Conclusion:
This fight is bound to go two ways. Many people were asking me how this fight goes down, I will tell you there are 2 possibilities. Possibility 1: This is a very stand-off technical match that takes place predominantly on the feet. Almost as technical as Cruz v Dillashaw. Possibility 2 (the scenario I think will happen): In front of an English crowd, for the first time in Liverpool, Darren Till wears his country's pride on his sleeve and pushes forward. I think Till will listen to the crowd and engage 'Wonderboy' in every facet of the game. This will allow for Thompson to employ his remarkable counter striking ability and potentially utilize a few takedowns (since he trains with All-American wrestler Chris Weidman) if necessary. Should this occur, it will give the fans and analysts a chance to see Till's ground game and ability to press forward.
Let's hope this is fireworks! Who grabs the W on May 27? #TeamGorilla or #TeamWonderboy ?