Stephen Thompson Will Fight Charles Radtke at UFC 334
The veteran fighter prepares for a future showdown at the iconic Madison Square Garden arena.
Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Mixed Martial Arts
Stephen Thompson is set to face Charles Radtke in a upcoming bout at UFC 334. The event is expected to feature Thompson concluding his professional fighting career at Madison Square Garden.
Why it matters
This matchup marks a significant career milestone as Thompson intends to retire following his performance in New York City. The bout highlights the end of a long-standing career path for the veteran athlete.
Tyron Woodley previously invested six figures into specialized training camps to counter Thompson. These camps included the use of taekwondo chest pads and body protectors to mitigate damage from sidekicks.
The players
Stephen Thompson
He is a professional mixed martial artist who is planning to retire following a final fight.
Charles Radtke
He is an active fighter slated to compete against Stephen Thompson at the upcoming UFC 334 event.
Tyron Woodley
He is a fellow athlete and actor who worked with Thompson on the film Road House 2.
The details
Stephen Thompson and Tyron Woodley previously appeared together in the movie Road House 2, which included re-shoots in London. Woodley prepared for his matchups against Thompson by utilizing training partners such as Sage Northcutt, Raymond Daniels, Avery Plowden, and Chris Spang.
Timeline
September 25, 2026: Article publication date.
Season Trajectory
The transition of athletes into film roles like the Road House 2 production reflects a growing trend in mixed martial arts. This career pivot aligns with Thompson's broader transition toward retirement from the professional circuit.
Fans tracking the division should note that Thompson's retirement could shift the rankings at Madison Square Garden. His exit impacts the current competitive balance and future title contention pathways for emerging fighters.
The takeaway
Thompson's move toward retirement marks the end of an era for a fighter known for his technical striking capabilities. Fans can expect his final appearance in New York City to be a focal point for the organization's upcoming event schedule.
Further reading
For additional context on the division, visit the Mixed Martial Arts section.
