UFC 205 in New York City has its first official title fight as welterweight champion Tyron Woodley announced that he will be defending his belt against No. 1 contender Stephen Thompson at the highly anticipated event.
Woodley, who won the title in July, make the announcement during the UFC Fight Night: Poirier vs. Johnson weigh-in on Friday.
“I’ve got some big news for you guys. You’ll see the welterweight champion of the world -- don’t get it confused, so of you guys have been -- I’ll be taking on Stephen ‘Wonderboy’ Thompson in New York City, Nov. 12, UFC 205, Madison Square Garden.” Woodley said.
Woodley defeated former champion Robbie Lawler in stunning fashion at UFC 201 in Atlanta, and afterwards, said he was interested in fighting UFC welterweight greats Georges St-Pierre or Nick Diaz in his first title defense.
But it looks like he’ll have to wait for his superfight since he’s got an official date with Thompson on his docket.
Thompson has won his last seven fights, including knockouts or TKOs of Johny Hendricks, Jake Ellenberger and Robert Whittaker. “Wonderboy” is coming off a unanimous decision over former title challenger Rory MacDonald and with more than half of his wins coming by way of finish, he’s undoubtedly the division’s No. 1 contender.
