Wonderboy Thompson eyes BMF vs. NMF showdown with Jorge Masvidal

Photo Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel - USA TODAY Sports

Jorge Masvidal and Stephen 'Wonderboy' Thompson may have shared the Octagon previously - but with spoils much greater up for grabs in the current climate, two-time title tilter, Thompson is open to a rematch. The South Carolina native exacted a one-sided unanimous decision display against 'Gamebred' back in 2017 at UFC 217, but the consensus 'Nicest Motherf**ker' is open to a challenge against his 'Baddest Motherf**ker' counterpart once more.

Speaking with Markey Martial Arts at FightCon in Cork this Saturday afternoon, the karate-specialist spoke of his once more fruitful title-aspirations, and a re-run with Jorge Masvidal in the future. The 37-year-old returned to the win column with a similarly dominant three-round display against the game, Vicente Luque in November - and believes a victory, or two, fast tracks him toward a third title opportunity.

"You know, (Jorge) Masvidal has inspired me," Thompson said. "Two years ago, I beat him at Madison Square Garden and look at him - he's one of the most popular guys in the UFC. That could be me next year. Maybe two (more) fights - a fight with somebody in the top five would put me back in that seat. Maybe the 'NMF' may be fighting the 'BMF' here soon."

As for the streaking Masvidal - the American Top Team staple has been linked to a matchup with current welterweight king, Kamaru Usman this July - following statement victories over Darren Till, Ben Askren, and at UFC 244, Nate Diaz.

With Thompson expected to remain sidelined until at least May or June as he nurses a broken left hand - the Simpsonville native also explained how he has tried and failed to secure matches against former champions, Rafael dos Anjos, and Robbie Lawler. In terms of a welcoming party upon his return - Thompson has his eyes set on a pairing with former title challenger and interim gold-holder, the brash, Colby Covington.

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