Kimbo Slice's next opponent: James Thompson
PRIDE veteran gets main-event slot on May 31 primetime CBS show
![]() Jeff Chiu / AP Kimbo Slice gets his next test vs. James "Megapunk" Thompson |
Video: MMA from NBC Sports |
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NBCSports.com has learned that Slice will take on James "Megapunk" Thompson.
A source close to one of the fighters confirmed that EliteXC would officially announce the matchup later this week.
The hulking 6-foot-5, 264-pound Thompson was a former debt collector who is 14-8 in his MMA career, most recently suffering a KO loss at the hands of Brett Rogers at EliteXC: Street Certified in February.
Thompson has lost six of his last eight fights, but is a dangerous opponent due to his aggressiveness and punching power.
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The massive Thompson cuts an imposing figure. |
Slice made himself an internet legend with his streetfighting videos and parlayed it into a legitimate MMA career, having seemingly captured the imagination of millions.
Since making the decision to train full-time, Slice has learned under MMA pioneer Bas Rutten. Slice has just two pro fights under his belt. Both bouts -- wins over Bo Cantrell and Tank Abbott -- ended in TKOs and lasted a combined 62 seconds. Despite the short resume, CBS is banking on Slice's name value to bring ratings for the primetime, Saturday night card, to be held at the Prudential Center in Newark, N.J.
Both fighters strongly favor the striking style, which makes it likely that the fight will end in a crowd-satisfying KO.
A middleweight championship fight between Robbie Lawler and Scott Smith will be the co-main event on the show.
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