Stephen Thompson says he's excited to face 'the best version' of Gilbert Durinho at UFC 264

S.Thompson is ranked fourth at welterweight. Photo/Reproduction: Instagram

Despite being close to earning a shot at the UFC welterweight (up to 77kg) title, Stephen Thompson knows he will have a tough mission in UFC 264 this Saturday (10). The North American, who faces Gilbert Durinho, tried to praise him and understands that the Brazilian arrives in his best version for the duel.

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“I know the loss to (Kamaru) Usman affected him and that's why I took the fight too. I know I'm going to face the best version of Gilbert Burns (Durinho). He wants this victory to show that he can be even better than the last fight. So, I know I'm going to face a dangerous opponent,” said Thompson in an interview with 'MMA fighting'.

For the North American, not even Durinho's defeat to Usman in the UFC 258, which occurred on February 14 this year, was able to reduce his confidence and ability. He even highlights that the Brazilian has a complete style of play and is excited to face one of the best in the category.

“He has the ability to knock you out. The ability to take down and apply 'crazy' jiu-jitsu. That's why I'm in this game, to face the best. That's why I'm excited and I don't want to face 'anything less' than (the level of) Gilbert Burns (Durinho) will bring me on July 10th”, concluded the fighter.

The winner of 'Thompson x Durinho' should get closer to a welterweight (under 77kg) belt fight. The North American and Brazilian occupy fourth and second place, respectively.