Stephen Thompson is eyeing a return to the Octagon against Jorge Masvidal at UFC 217 on November 4th at Madison Square Garden.

“Wonderboy” hasn’t fought since tearing his MCL against Tyron Woodley in a second, unsuccessful, title challenge. Both Masvidal and Thompson verbally agreed to a bout on social media. Thompson now wants a deal finalised for the pair to officially throw down in New York.

Speaking to Talking Brawls podcast the #1 ranked welterweight in the world spoke of his desire to honour the verbal agreement with Jorge Masvidal.

“You know. He asked for this fight, and it hasn’t been confirmed yet but it’s going to be my goal to make sure that happens, November 4th. So, be ready baby. Of course he’s saying easy money but let me tell you; it’s not going to be easy.”

Masvidal claims Thompson has been ducking him, he also threw insults at the former title challenger on social media, claiming Thompson was a feigning injury.

Thompson has yet to be medically cleared to compete but is back in full training. He expects clearance from his doctor in the coming days, paving the way for an official return to the Octagon.

“Man, first off, I don’t know if he’s ever had any knee injuries but this is my sixth one. I’ve had four on my left and this is the second one on my right, and being 34 years-old, you have to make sure everything is right before you step out there. I’m kind of a preserving guy. I’ve seen guys go out there, not ready, and trying to push it. Injuring their knee more, being out for a year; maybe even longer. So, I just want to make sure everything is healed up. I told him that I’d fight him; which is something I’m going to do.”

Jorge Masvidal is coming off a decision loss to Damian Maia, while Stephen Thompson is the only fighter in the top five, bar the champion, that Masvidal hasn’t fought.

You can listen to the full interview below from this week’s Talking Brawls:

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Niall & Petesy talk McGregor/ Malignaggi fallout, UFC Mexico, James Gallagher, your questions & lots more.

• Martin Lewandowski joins the show at approx 13:25 minutes in
• Stephen Thompson joins the show at approx 48:0 minutes in

Be sure to follow @TalkingBrawls, @NiallMcGrath4, @PetesyCarroll and @SevereMMA on Twitter.

Art by @JimDaw