Stephen Thompson believes Robert Whittaker is "a very tough fight" for Khamzat Chimaev, previews UFC 308 co-main clash

Stephen Thompson has shared his thoughts on the upcoming co-main event at UFC 308, where former middleweight champion Robert Whittaker will face Khamzat Chimaev. Thompson believes the fight is a "very tough" challenge for Chimaev, citing Whittaker's impressive takedown defense and striking skills.

In an interview with Submission Radio, Thompson said:

"I think that's a very tough fight for Khamzat. I mean uh Robert Whitaker has got some of the best takedown defense in the 185 Division. I mean when you go 10 Rounds with Yoel Romero and keep the fight standing, oh my gosh. I mean that's a feat on its own. But I do believe that... I think it's a tough fight for Khamzat if the fight stays standing."

While Thompson acknowledged Chimaev's strength and grappling skills, he suggested that Whittaker's superior takedown defense could give him a significant advantage:

I think Robert Whitaker's got it. Khamzat is gonna have to keep him down and hold him down in order to win. Now Khamzat is a very strong guy. I think he's capable of doing that but I think he's gonna spend a lot of energy trying to do so."

Check out Stephen Thompson's comments below (5:18):

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Stephen Thompson shares his prediction for Alex Pereira vs. Khalil Rountree Jr. championship fight

Stephen Thompson has weighed in on the upcoming UFC 307 main event between Alex Pereira and Khalil Rountree Jr. The fight, which is scheduled for Oct. 5, is a surprising matchup given Rountree's current ranking at No. 8 in the light heavyweight division.

However, Thompson believes that the fight has the potential to be an exciting striking battle. Both Pereira and Rountree are known for their striking prowess, and Thompson predicts that the fight could either end in a quick knockout or go the distance.

Speaking to TalkSport, 'Wonderboy' said:

"I think this is a great fight. Khalil Rountree, being another striker, I'm excited for this one to be honest with you. Anything can happen when it comes to these guys. But I think this is going to be, one - an easy knockout. Or two - it's gonna go all five rounds, just a striking war. Khalil Rountree is a great Muay Thai stylist and I think this is what fans want to see out of Pereira. They want to see somebody push his striking."

Check out Stephen Thompson's prediction for Alex Pereira vs. Khalil Rountree below (6:35):