SBG Ireland head coach John Kavanagh suggested the perfect fight for Gunnar Nelson after his second round submission win over Alan Jouban at UFC Fight Night 107 last night: A fight against two-time welterweight title challenger Stephen Thompson to determine ‘the real Karate Kid’.

Nelson, who infuses Karate with high-level Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, used his striking to set up a savvy guillotine choke against Jouban at the O2 Arena in London, England. The Iceland native dropped his opponent with a right hand and a head kick before locking up the submission in the second round.

Wonderboy, who has made a name for himself with his unorthodox Karate style, would much prefer to avoid the ground and keep the fight standing. The lifelong martial artist has developed exceptional take down defense over the years to utilise his striking to maximum effect.

While Nelson is riding a two-fight win streak, Thompson, the No. 1 ranked welterweight contender in the world, just lost a decision to current champ Tyron Woodley in one of the year’s most dull championship fights. The South Carolinan previously fought ‘T-Wood’ to a draw at UFC 205 and will be looking to spring back into the winner’s column.

A ‘karate kid’ fight is a great opportunity for both men: Nelson has the chance to catapult into the top five and Thompson, 34, has a chance to redeem himself in what promises to be a fantastic stylistic matchup.