Fresh off a star-making performance against former champion Johny Hendricks, Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson will meet former title challenger Rory MacDonald in a matchup that not only carries significant title implications, but should be fun as hell too. Odds have yet to release for the bout, so I’ve taken the opportunity to project them myself.
Bet on current UFC odds at BookMaker.eu
Projected odds:
Stephen Thompson +100
Rory MacDonald -120
Please note, the MMA odds at BookMaker are updated daily.
THE CASE FOR THOMPSON
Since losing a decision to Matt Brown in April 2012, Thompson has won six straight, with four coming by way of knockout. However, his thrashing of Johny Hendricks instantly made him the hottest fighter in the 170-pound division. Immediately after the bout, FOX analyst Michael Bisping predicted that Thompson would be the champion before the year was over.
Yeah, he looked that good, against a guy that arguably should have been fighting for a title no less. Thompson has always been an elite striker, and he was able to fend off the takedown attempts of a fighter many consider the best wrestler in the division. On the feet, Hendricks looked completely lost - which is scary considering how he went toe-to-toe with Robbie Lawler.
THE CASE FOR MACDONALD
MacDonald is coming off a Fight of the Year against Robbie Lawler, and he was beating the champ before his nose completely shattered in the fifth round. In terms of physical tools and MMA skills, the 26-year old might be the most well-rounded fighter in the division. At his best, he’s an excellent wrestler who seamlessly blends combination striking and takedowns.
When it comes to experience, MacDonald possesses far more actual octagon time. Plus, he trains with one of the best camps in the world, Tri-Star Gym in Montreal. He’s been performing at a championship level for years, with wins over elite competition like Demian Maia and Tyron Woodley.
THE CASE FOR THOMPSON-MACDONALD
If you haven’t seen either of their last fights, do yourselves a favor and google them now. MacDonald is one of the gutsiest fighters in the division, and Thompson is the most exciting striker. There’s no question that Rory will try and take this to the ground. If Wonderboy shows that his takedown defense against Hendricks wasn’t a fluke, we could be looking at a new championship contender.
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Access live betting lines from your mobile device at BookMaker sportsbook! You can even wager on sporting events as they unfold on television with BookMaker’s live betting platform. Money lines, totals, props and money line are all available now. UFC Fight Night 89 takes place on June 18, 2016 in Ottawa, Canada. The location and time have yet to be announced.
