Stephen Thompson speaks out after controversial UFC Nashville defeat and nasty shin injury

Thompson spoke to his fans on social media a few hours after the fight.

The former two-time welterweight title challenger was seen using crutches during his Instagram video.

“First and foremost, I wanna thank all my fans for coming out,” Thompson said.

“Your love and support was amazing out there tonight. I really do appreciate it. I’m always grateful for the opportunity to perform in front of you guys.

“I’ve gotta get back, heal my shin up, and maybe do some more shin conditioning.”

In the caption, he added a thank-you to the medical team that stood by him after his injury.

“Thank you to my team @paradigmsports for always taking care of me! Also, shout out to the UFC Docs for stitching me up! Shin is split to the bone so time to focus on healing up!”

Stephen Thompson sets sights on UFC longevity record

Thompson, who holds the distinction of being the oldest active fighter in the UFC, has made it clear he isn’t planning to retire any time soon.

In fact, he’s even hinted that he could stick around for another five years.

The 42-year-old has his eye on Randy Couture’s record for being the oldest fighter in UFC history. ‘The Natural’ fought until age 47, and Thompson hasn’t ruled out a similar path.

“It would be cool to beat Randy Couture’s record,” Thompson said before UFC Nashville.

“It would be cool, but I’ve got two fights left, man, and we’re gonna see them through, gonna honor them, and we’ll go out there and win these next two fights in great fashion and see if we’ll keep going.”

“It depends on what the UFC wants to do, for sure. God forbid that if it doesn’t, I’ve got other routes that I can take.”