BREAKING: Stephen ‘Wonderboy’ Thompson Returns to UFC Action at UFC 264 Against Gilbert Burns

An intriguing welterweight clash between top contenders Stephen ‘Wonderboy’ Thompson and Gilbert Burns has been added to the UFC 264 pay-per-view on July 10th. ESPN’s Brett Okamoto reported about the booking of the fight. ‘Wonderboy’ is currently on a 2-fight winning streak having earned consecutive decisions over Vicente Luque and Geoff Neal.

‘Durinho’ fought for the belt against former teammate Kamaru Usman at UFC 258 and lost the fight. However, the top welterweight is back on the horse again and will look to make himself relevant again in the title picture with a win over ‘Wonderboy’.

UFC President Dana White has reportedly confirmed the booking of the fight. Brett Okamoto tweeted, “Two of the nicest (and baddest) dudes in the sport have agreed to throw down at UFC 264 on July 10. Gilbert Burns (@GilbertDurinho) vs. Stephen Thompson (@WonderboyMMA) has been verbally agreed to, per Dana White (@danawhite)”

The match-up is yet to be officially announced or confirmed, but fans will know that an announcement will be imminent.

‘Durinho‘ and Thompson both happen to be two of the most gentle characters to ever enter the Octagon, but it would be foolish to expect nice things from them when they fight, as both are ruthless killers once the battle begins. Given their current status as top contenders of the division, stakes will be high for the UFC 264 clash.

Stephen ‘Wonderboy’ Thompson vs Gilbert Burns: Early prediction

Burns has a skill set combining his grappling and striking attributes. The Brazilian is heavy-handed and can knock his opponents out. He almost dropped Kamaru Usman with a heavy shot early in their fight.

His submission game is excellent as he is a long-time jiu-jitsu practitioner. Overall, his skillsets complement his game perfectly, making him one of the most diverse fighters in the division.

But, Thompson is a former two-time title challenger and is an experienced campaigner at the 170lbs division of the UFC. Many can argue that at 38, ‘Wonderboy‘ is past his prime, but his last performance against Magny should be enough to brush them aside.

His technical wizardry of striking is truly amazing and he should be able to apply it against Burns as his excellent takedown defense will be a key fundamental for his triumph too. Thompson should add yet another big name to his ever-impressive record.

Who’s your pick for UFC 264? Are you excited to see this fight?