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Sunday, Jun 19, 2016

UFC FN 89: Stephen Thompson Comments on Rory MacDonald’s “Flying Heel Hook” Attempts

Stephen Thompson (photo via UFC)

By FCF Staff

Although Stephen Thompson outscored Rory MacDonald for the decision win, Saturday, the vaunted striker never really let loose, and the welterweight says the latter’s Imanari rolls were a key reason why.

Early on in the UFC Fight Night 89 headliner, MacDonald rolled a couple of times in an effort to grab Thompson’s legs, and begin working a heel hook. The decorated kickboxer was able to step out, however, and avoid any danger.

Following his unanimous decision win, Thompson had this to say about the dynamic, takedown attempts from MacDonald (quote via MMA Fighting.com):

“I just felt that he was going to be shooting for my legs, and what really surprised me was the flying heel hook he was going for. So after a few on those, I was like, man, I can’t rush in like I want, so I had to stay back and just try and use my strikes and counterstrikes and my side kicks to try and keep him at bay.”

With Saturday’s win, Thompson has won seven straight fights and is expected to face the winner of the July 30th bout between champion Robbie Lawler and Tyron Woodley. Thompson also relayed at the post-fight press conference that he would prefer to face Lawler, and that he expects the rugged slugger to win the bout.

posted by FCF Staff @ 11:48 am
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