Stephen Thompson explains why he chose Charles Radtke for final UFC fight

Stephen Thompson wants to retire like a true veteran.

By Sayan Nag · Sherdog

Published: Thursday, 1 October 2026 at 2:43 AM

Key Things to Know

Stephen Thompson chose Charles Radtke for his final UFC fight to give a rising fighter an opportunity.
Thompson will face Radtke in his retirement bout at UFC 334 on Nov. 14 at Madison Square Garden.
Thompson stated he would not have reached the top without established fighters giving him similar chances.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Stephen Thompson revealed why he agreed to face Charles Radtke for his retirement bout at UFC 334 on November 14 at Madison Square Garden. In an interview with Full Mount MMA, Thompson explained that he wants to give a rising fighter the same opportunity established contenders once gave him to climb the welterweight rankings.

Thompson acknowledged Radtke's potential and stated that beating him would help the unranked fighter advance. Entering the matchup, Thompson is on a three-fight losing streak with his last win in 2022, while Radtke holds a 5-2 UFC record with losses to Mike Malott and Carlos Prates.

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Stephen Thompson explains why he chose Charles Radtke for final UFC fight

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