Stephen Thompson shows confidence for the duel against Durinho and believes he can be champion in 2021

Thompson (photo) will face Gilbert Durinho No. UFC 264 Photo: Twitter @ufcbrasil

On the eve of the duel against Gilbert Durinho No. UFC 264 next Saturday (10), Stephen Thompson showed confidence about his future in the welterweight division (under 77,1kg). The former challenger in the category declared that he was ready to fight for the belt and stated that he intends to become champion in 2021. The statement was made on 'half day' of the show.

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“I’m ready to go out there and show everyone what I’m capable of. That I'm ready to fight for the title. I told everyone after my last fight. In 2021, I will be world champion,” said Thompson.

The American fighter regretted having started 'late' in mixed martial arts but said he was at his technical peak and evolving with each fight.

“I came into this game very late, at 28 years old. I'm trying to improve every day. Do I feel like I'm the best MMA fighter? No, but this is the mentality I maintain and I continue to push myself in search of evolution. With each fight I learn something different and try to improve, regardless of victory or defeat. I feel like I'm at my peak”, concluded the 'Wonderboy'.

Current number four in the welterweight rankings, Stephen Thompson comes from two consecutive victories. The karateka dreams of a new opportunity to compete for the category belt like in 2016 and 2017, when he faced the then champion Tyron woodley. The fighter has a record of 16 triumphs, four setbacks and one draw.