There is an exciting matchup in the works between Stephen Thompson and Michel Pereira for June.
There might not be a more interesting division in the UFC right now than the welterweight division. The champion Leon Edwards has just defeated former champion Kamaru Usman for the second time in a row and is already set for his next bout. The entire top ten of the division seem to believe they deserve a shot at the champion and many of them have been calling him out. Edwards is slated to face Colby Covington this summer in London, but that leaves a lot of possible opportunities to shake out until then.
One man who is looking to get himself back in that title picture is Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson. As a former two-time title challenger, Thompson may be on the back nine of his career but is not slowing down. The 40 years old is on a mission for gold and plans to dictate exactly how he gets there. Thompson has mentioned previously that he wants to face fellow strikers and is shying away from grappling dominant opponents. Now he has found the perfect matchup with Michel Pereira according to reports.
Stephen Thompson vs. Michel Pereira targeted for UFC 289 on June 10
Thompson has a background in Karate and has showcased his excellent standup for the majority of his career. In his last three bouts, his two losses were against wresting heavy opponents. He bounced back with a win over Kevin Holland in December and is now continuing on his striking tour against Pereira.
Pereira trained in Karate as a child as well and is known for a very flashing striking style in the cage. He is currently riding a five-fight winning streak and is currently ranked 15 in the division. If he can get past the number seven ranked Thompson it would be a huge boost in his career. He could potentially place himself in striking distance of a top-five opponent with a win.
UFC 289 is set to take place on June 10 and although the location is yet to be determined, reports are that it will be held in Alberta, Canada. This will be the first time the UFC has held an event in Canada since before the pandemic.
The bout was first reported by MMA Sucka.
