Stephen Thompson picks UFC's finest striker and grappler

Former UFC welterweight title contender, Stephen Thompson, acknowledges the exceptional prowess of two reigning champions.

Israel Adesanya in a file photo [Image- Twitter]
By Rohit Kohli | Jul 4, 2023 | 2 Min Read follow icon Follow Us

Former UFC welterweight title contender, Stephen Thompson, acknowledges the exceptional prowess of two reigning champions who have established themselves as exemplars in their respective domains. Thompson, poised to make his welterweight comeback against Michel Pereira at UFC 291 on July 29th, aims to regain his stride following a previous setback, triumphantly breaking a two-fight losing streak against Kevin Holland at UFC Orlando in the previous year.

After enduring multiple reschedulings earlier this year, Stephen Thompson will at last have the opportunity to square off against the electrifying Michel Pereira, propelling his journey towards a prospective title shot. Determined to ascend the ranks once more, Thompson’s long-awaited clash with Pereira serves as a pivotal stepping stone in his quest for championship contention.

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Stephen Thompson names the best in the business

Having crossed paths with illustrious UFC figures like Anthony Pettis and Tyron Woodley, Stephen Thompson boasts a wealth of experience against some of the promotion’s most formidable competitors. Thus, his credibility is unquestionable when it comes to assessing the current cream of the crop in the UFC. With a battle-tested resume, Thompson has earned the privilege to assert that his insights into the top fighters of today carry substantial weight.

In a recent exclusive interview with SportsKeeda, Stephen Thompson revealed his pick for the most exceptional striker currently competing in the UFC, setting aside his own remarkable skills. He named Israel Adesanya as the best striker.

Despite his apprehension towards grappling specialists, Stephen Thompson openly commended a reigning UFC champion, acknowledging their unparalleled expertise as the promotion’s preeminent grappler. He named Islam Makhachev as the best grappler.

What are the next challenges for the champions?

Israel Adesanya is slated to defend his middleweight title in September, potentially against the Robert Whittaker vs. Dricus du Plessis bout winner. After regaining the belt, Adesanya secured his championship status by triumphing over Alex Pereira in their highly anticipated rematch at UFC 287.

In a sensational showdown at UFC 284, Islam Makhachev delivered a memorable performance, emerging victorious in a thrilling clash against Alexander Volkanovski. Having etched his name in the annals of instant classics, Makhachev now sets his sights on an October comeback, with a potential rematch against Charles Oliveira on his radar.

Acknowledging exceptional talent, Stephen Thompson fearlessly bestows credit where it’s deserved, recognizing that both Israel Adesanya and Islam Makhachev possess unparalleled strengths that elevate them above their contemporaries.

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