Stephen Thompson releases statement following UFC Nashville loss

Former two-time welterweight title challenger Stephen "Wonderboy" Thompson entered the octagon at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville on Saturday coming off back-to-back losses. The 42 year-old had lost four of his last five fights and was in desperate need of a win. 

Thompson faced Gabriel Bonfim and came out on the wrong side of a spit decision. Following the loss, Thompson released a statement via social media addressing his fans. 

"Nashville you are amazing! To my fans, I love y'all!! Thank you for your love and support always," he captioned a video post. 

"What's up guys? Back at the hotel room and first and foremost I want to thank all my fans for coming out and showing your love and support which was amazing out there tonight," Thompson said in the video. "I really do appreciate it. I'm always grateful for the opportunity to perform in front of you guys."

During the fight, Thompson suffered a large laceration on his left shin after having a leg kick checked by Bonfim. After the shin-to-shin impact, Thompson fell to the canvas but immediately sprang back to his feet. 

Thompson was eager to return home and begin the process of healing and recovery. "I've got to get back and heal my shin up, maybe do some more shin conditioning," Thompson said with a chuckle.