Apart from world titles in different divisions, the UFC also recognizes the BMF title. Deriving inspiration from it, Stephen Thompson has proposed the ‘NMF’ title as an equivalent counterpart of the BMF belt. This term was first coined by Ariel Helwani back in 2019. However, in a recent interview, Thompson was asked if the NMF would ever come into existence, and who would the contenders be.
In his response, Thompson insisted that the title could become a reality, and even dropped a few names across divisions, who, according to him, are rightful contenders for this acclaim. Amongst others, he took the name of Dustin Poirier, Robert Whittaker, and Vincent Luque.
“Robert Whitaker for sure. Robert Whitaker at definitely an nmf. Heavyweight who we looking for let’s see. Aspinal is a nice guy I believe yeah yes. You know I think I think he deserves an nmf belt as well let’s go down to the llightweight division. Definitely I mean right now it’s I shoot. I’m thinking obviously Max Holloway at this point I mean he’s moved up yeah he’s moved up uh Dustin porier for sure um man I can I can go on and on there’s a lot of lot of topnotch gentlemen.”
What is ahead for Stephen Thompson?
Thompson might have aged but his fighting skills continue to present problems to anybody in the division. On top of it, he aims to become the champion one day. He last fought in December of 2023 and wants to make a comeback this summer. In the same interview, he was asked about his future plans, to which he responded,
“I’m just waiting at this point I mean I would love to get a fight in in either like you know July or August somewhere somewhere around there um after my last fight got some things I got to work on the ground game.”
This fire to compete again shows that Thompson is here to stay. However, it would be a tough road for him to climb up the ladder and get a title shot. Still, one cannot underestimate him, and only time will tell if the 41-year-old succeeds.
