Thompson Ends Career With Spinning Wheel Kick KO

Stephen Thompson closed his 14-year MMA career with a devastating third-round spinning wheel kick knockout at UFC 334 on Saturday night.

The 43-year-old former title challenger stopped Charles Radtke in the prelims headliner at Madison Square Garden, according to MMA Mania. Thompson landed the kick flush on the side of Radtke's head midway through the final frame, ending the bout and his own career in one swing.

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Thompson Survived Early Trouble To Find His Range

Radtke controlled the opening round with clinch work and level changes, leaning on his training alongside former UFC champion Belal Muhammad. Thompson turned the fight in the second with a sharp left hand and combination that forced Radtke to shoot, then hurt him badly with a body kick near the bell. A head kick early in the third sent the MSG crowd into a roar before Thompson uncorked the final blow.

UFC commentator Joe Rogan was visibly emotional during the post-fight interview, per video highlights circulating online. Thompson entered the bout as just a slight betting favorite despite his vast UFC experience, a reflection of his age and recent results. The spinning wheel kick finish marked a fitting sendoff for one of the promotion's most decorated strikers.

🎟️ Get tickets: Buy tickets to UFC 334 on Ticketmaster →

UFC 334 aired live on Paramount Plus with a main event between Ciryl Gane and an opponent identified as Hokit.

Reported via:

• MMA Mania — Highlights! Stephen Thompson ends career with epic spinning wheel kick knockout, Joe Rogan left in tears post-fight | UFC 334