Joe Rogan Sheds Tears As Stephen Thompson Announces Retirement After Stunning UFC 334 Knockout

Joe Rogan gets emotional as Stephen Thompson retires© NDTV Gallery

Stephen Thompson has officially retired from MMA after an emotional farewell at UFC 334 in Madison Square Garden. The former welterweight title challenger delivered one final highlight-reel finish, knocking out Charles Radtke at 2:54 of the third round. The win ended his three-fight losing streak and gave fans a memorable final moment. Thompson, who made his UFC debut in 2012 as an undefeated kickboxer, left his gloves inside the Octagon to confirm his retirement. The 43-year-old struggled to hold back tears while announcing his decision, while Joe Rogan also couldn't stop shedding tears.

Stephen Thompson Delivers Perfect Retirement Moment With Spinning Wheel Kick

Stephen Thompson picked the perfect way to close his professional MMA career, using the spinning kick that became his signature move throughout his UFC journey.

However, the fight against Charles Radtke was far from easy. Radtke started aggressively, taking Thompson down within the opening minute. He controlled the former title challenger on the ground for much of the first round and managed another takedown in the second.

The American attempted another takedown, but the round ended before he could establish control.

Thompson came out with more confidence in the third round. He landed additional body kicks and punches against the fence before attempting a spinning attack. Radtke survived the first attempt, but the veteran wasn't done.

Thompson connected with another spinning wheel kick, landing cleanly on Radtke's head. The strike dropped his opponent, forcing the referee to immediately stop the contest at 2:54 of the final round.

It was a cinematic ending, and Thompson knew it was time to walk away. He removed his gloves and left them inside the Octagon, officially bringing his 14-year UFC career to an end.

Speaking to Joe Rogan after the fight, the UFC star got emotional and he said, “I've been in the UFC for almost 15 years. Tonight, I couldn't ask better than to go out with a spin hook kick to the dome, baby, let's go.”

He also admitted that controlling his emotions was difficult, “I told myself I wasn't going to cry, man.”

Rogan was visibly emotional too, telling Thompson, “I'm crying.”

Thompson responded, “I just want to say I love you,” before Rogan replied, “I love you too man.”

Stephen Thompson's UFC Career Featured Memorable Wins and Two Title Fights

Thompson also thanked his family, coaches and fans for standing by him throughout his career.

Thompson retires as one of the most respected fighters in UFC welterweight history as his karate-based fighting style, impressive striking combinations and sportsmanship made him a fan favourite.

‘Wonderboy' earned his first welterweight title opportunity after putting together seven consecutive UFC victories. His impressive run included wins over former champion Johny Hendricks and Robert Whittaker.