Stephen Thompson Retires After Spinning Kick Knockout Victory at UFC 334

Stephen Thompson concluded his professional fighting career by knocking out Charles Radtke at 2:54 of the third round during UFC 334.

Stephen "Wonderboy" Thompson (18-9-1) ended his 16-year MMA career with a knockout victory over Charles Radtke at 2 minutes, 54 seconds of the third round on Saturday night at UFC 334. Fighting at Madison Square Garden, the 43-year-old welterweight secured the win using a spinning hook kick to the head. This final performance brought Thompson’s total Octagon appearances to 23 since joining the promotion in 2012.

Charles Radtke (13-5) controlled the early portions of the bout by securing takedowns in both the first and second rounds. Thompson shifted the momentum late in the second frame by establishing the distance required to land strikes to his opponent's body and head. The finishing sequence mirrored Thompson's background in kickboxing, a sport where he maintained an undefeated combined amateur and professional record across 57 matches.

Thompson announced his intention to retire earlier in the week, departing the sport nearly a decade after his peak title contention. In 2017, he fought then-champion Tyron Woodley to a majority draw before losing a majority decision in their immediate rematch. His resume includes a seven-fight winning streak with notable victories over former champions Robert Whittaker and Johny Hendricks. Following the knockout of Radtke, Thompson addressed the crowd in an Octagon interview conducted by Joe Rogan as a career highlight montage played in the arena.