November 2, 2024

Stephen Thompson agrees to fight Darren Till under several conditions

Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson
Esther Lin, MMA Fighting

For now, the UFC Liverpool main event is a go.

Stephen Thompson has agreed to fight Darren Till after the latter failed to make the welterweight limit at Saturday’s weigh-ins, coming in 3.5 pounds over the contracted limit. The two contenders are scheduled to headline Sunday’s show at the Echo Arena in Till’s hometown.

News of Thompson’s decision was first reported by MMAjunkie and later confirmed by MMA Fighting’s Ariel Helwani.

Thompson and his team are asking that Till forfeit 30-percent of his purse to Thompson for failing to make weight. In addition to that penalty, Till must weigh in again at 1 p.m. GMT on Sunday before heading to the arena and he cannot be heavier than 188 pounds.

Per Helwani, another negotiation is likely to happen if Till is unable to meet those weight requirements. A source also told Helwani that Till did have a family emergency, which officials gave as the reason for him being allowed an additional hour after the scheduled weigh-in time to check in.

Thompson’s team can also be present for Sunday’s weight check.

At Saturday’s ceremonial weigh-ins, Till was contrite.

“I want to apologize for missing weight,” Till said. “S**t happens… I know I can finish Stephen Thompson.”

This is the second time in Till’s UFC career that he has missed weight. Last May, the 25-year-old came in at 176 pounds for a welterweight meeting with Jessin Ayari.

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