G. Durinho (right) defeated S. Thompson in the UFC 264. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram
The defeat for Gilbert Durinho No. UFC 264 has not yet been surpassed by Stephen Thompson. In the second most important fight of the night, the North American had the chance to get closer to a title fight at welterweight (under 77kg), but ended up dominated and defeated by unanimous decision from the judges.
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In an interview with the ‘James Lynch’ channel on YouTube, Thompson recalled the fight and stated that Durinho was not aggressive enough. Still, he admits that he should have attacked even more so that he could have come away with the victory.
“I definitely could have been more aggressive in that fight with my striking. In the second round, he showed that he was trying to take me down and lowering his head. I was surprised to see him happy about it. After the fight he acted like he had just won the title. If it were me, I would be disappointed to win like that. But I'm disappointed with my performance too. I should have been more aggressive and let my hands fly!” said Thompson.
Furthermore, Stephen reflected that perhaps he waited too long for an attack from Gilbert, but says that the Brazilian was afraid to exchange blows while standing.
“Now that I look back, (I see that) he was backing away because he was scared of my striking. During the fight, I sat and waited for him, making sure not to be too aggressive when going forward. I wanted to keep it right at the part where I was not too close and not too far. But now I look back and see that he was scared”, added the fighter.
The American was close to a title shot after recording a series of two consecutive victories, but he will need to rebuild his path towards the belt. Professional since 2010, Thompson has a record of 16 wins, five setbacks and one draw.
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