- Khalil Rountree praised and thanked Alex Pereira following his UFC 307 title fight loss
- Stephen Thompson acknowledged his fans’ support after his KO loss at UFC 307
Khalil Rountree and Stephen Thompson respectively opened up about their tough knockout losses at UFC 307.
Khalil praised Alex
Rountree put on a remarkable performance against Alex Pereira in the main event of UFC 307. However, “The War Horse” failed to end the Brazilian’s reign and wound up getting battered to a knockout defeat.
Nevertheless, many recognized Rountree’s effort but the man in question admitted that Pereira is a champion simply because he is the best in the division. Moreover, “The War Horse” is grateful for the opportunity.
“I didn’t win the title but I grew last night. @alexpoatanpereira thanks for helping me see that I’m ready to take on the world. You showed amazing skill, you brought out a version of me that I needed to experience. You’re the champ for a reason, much respect. But I now know what I am capable of. #saltlakecity you guys were amazing and gave me such a memorable experience. I appreciate all of the positive messages from everyone around the world,” Rountree wrote on Instagram.
“@danawhite @espn @espnmma and the entire @ufc staff, thanks for giving me a home, a place to have purpose and providing me with challenges to overcome… Brazil [Brazilian flag] you guys have a strong champion, be proud. I will take time to heal from this, I’ll be back even better, it’s inevitable. I’m grateful. Never give up on yourself, always fight hard, uplift your communities and find ways to make the most out of life. @deltacenter thanks for hosting us. #ufc307 was a night to remember,” he continued.
Wonderboy appreciates the fans’ support
Like Rountree, “Wonderboy” also suffered a knockout loss at the hands of his opponent at UFC 307. Thompson was stopped by Joaquin Buckley in the third round of their welterweight showdown.
In a post on Instagram, the 41-year-old genuinely voiced his deep appreciation for the fans’ support.
“Not much to say other than I sincerely appreciate all of the love and support I felt from the fans tonight and always the love you’ve shown me really fills my heart,” Thompson wrote on the post. “The roar of the crowd as I walked out to the cage and my name was announced is something I’ll cherish forever. I’m sorry I didn’t get it done tonight. Much love to you all and much love to SLC.”
The KO loss to Pereira saw Rountree snapping his five-fight winning streak. Despite that, some believe “The War Horse” gave “Poatan” the toughest fight in the light heavyweight division.
On the other hand, “Wonderboy” has now gone winless in two consecutive trips to the Octagon. His last win took place in 2022 when he beat Kevin Holland via corner stoppage.
