Joe Rogan cries as Stephen Thompson retires after scoring spinning wheel kick KO at UFC 334
Stephen Thompson concluded his mixed martial arts career at UFC 334, held at Madison Square Garden in New York, by defeating Charles Radtke with a spinning wheel kick knockout in the third round. The 43-year-old welterweight had previously announced that this bout would be his final appearance in the Octagon, a promise he kept despite Radtke securing early takedowns in the first two rounds.
Thompson regained his footing more effectively in the second round, pressing his striking advantage until the bell saved his opponent, before delivering the decisive blow in the final frame. The emotional finale saw UFC commentator Joe Rogan tear up during his post-fight interview with the veteran fighter, who is widely regarded as one of the division's all-time greats.
Thompson entered the sport with a perfect 57-0 kickboxing record before transitioning to MMA in 2010 and joining the UFC in 2012. His promotional debut featured a first-round head-kick knockout of Dan Stittgen, followed by a seven-fight winning streak that included victories over Robert Whittaker, Johny Hendricks, and Rory MacDonald.
Although he failed to capture the welterweight title in a two-fight series against Tyron Woodley, Thompson maintained a high level of performance with notable wins against Jorge Masvidal, Vicente Luque, Geoff Neal, and Kevin Holland.
