UFC Nashville: Stephen Thompson vs. Gabriel Bonfim: Live round-by-round updates

Stephen Thompson returns to action in the co-main event at UFC Nashville, looking to break a rough patch against rising welterweight Gabriel Bonfim.

At 42, 'Wonderboy' may no longer be the fleet-footed karate ace who once dazzled the division, but his timing and striking IQ remain sharp. He’s lost four of his last five, and his only win in that stretch came over Geoff Neal nearly four years ago.

Bonfim, meanwhile, is rising fast in the welterweight ranks. The Brazilian has already fought five times since earning his contract in 2022 through Dana White’s Contender Series. He’s 4-1 in the UFC and is coming off a slick second-round submission over Khaos Williams.

Bonfim will look to close the distance, press the pace, and test Thompson’s legs and timing. Thompson will need to rely on his footwork and clean counters to stay one step ahead.

Live coverage for UFC Nashville begins at 6 p.m. Eastern Time and 3 p.m. Pacific. The main card will start at 9 p.m. Eastern and 6 p.m. Pacific. You can watch it live on ESPN, ESPN Plus, and Disney Plus.

Stay tuned to Sportskeeda MMA for the live coverage of the Stephen Thompson vs. Gabriel Bonfim clash:

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Round 1

Bonfim operates out of the orthodox stance, while Thompson opts for a southpaw stance. Bonfim attacks the lead leg, and Thompson tries to land a lead leg high kick. Bonfim shoots for a takedown, takes Thompson's back, and immediately attacks the neck. Thompson dips to the right shoulder, ends up on top, and they get back in a body clinch position against the fence. They both trade briefly on the feet, and Bonfim gets the better of the exchanges.

Our Score: 10-9 Bonfim

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Round 2

Beautiful side kick to the body from Thompson. Bonfim attacks with a body kick. Bonfim shoots for a takedown, and Thompson defends it well. Thompson darts in with a one-two combination. Thompson goes high with the head kick. He's switching stances now, and Bonfim ducks underneath for a takedown attempt off a quick spinning kick attack from his opponent. Thompson defends it again and lands a stinging high kick. Bonfim fires back with a strong right hand. Thompson busts his shin open after Bonfim checks a low leg kick. Thompson hurts Bonfim with a high kick, follows up to attack, but the bell seemingly saves his opponent.

Our Score: 10-9 Thompson (19-19 overall)

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Round 3

Thompson has a big cut on the left shin, but he seems unfazed. He starts peppering strong kicks with his leg. Bonfim tries to pressure against the cage and land a takedown. Thompson is defending it well, but he needs to circle back and get back in the striking range. Strong short elbow from Thompson. The American fighter is getting the better of the exchanges on the feet. Bonfim shoots for a takedown and gets his opponent down. Thompson immediately gets back on his feet.

Our Score: 10-9 Thompson (29-28 overall)

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Official Result

Gabriel Bonfim defeats Stephen Thompson by split decision (29-28, 28-29, and 29-28)